2009 has been a very busy year for us. Let me start at the beginning:
January- I quit my job of 5 years to student teach and wrap up getting my teaching certificate. This was one of the best experiences of my life and I am so happy that I decided to do it. As an Alt Cert student I wasn't required to do student teaching (since I already had a Bachelor's Degree) but I wanted to do it anyway. I knew it would be a valuable experience and help me to get a job for the following school year. I learned so much and even made new friends along the way.
February- I celebrated my first annual 29th Birthday in Saint Louis during Mardi Gras. Jay and I had a BLAST and would love to do it again (just not this year of course). Even though it was super cold we had a wonderful time and got to catch up with some good friends of ours that live in Saint Louis. We don't get out there much but when we do we always have a good time.
March- I got to experience High School all over again and I did NOT like it. The kids were sassy, sneaky, mouthy and mean not to mention much much bigger than me. I don't think it helped that my Co Operating Teacher was such a nightmare. (I was so lucky to have found Lorel at my elementary placement!)
April- I officially started looking for a teaching position. I really, really, really wanted the elementary position in Lee's Summit but did not get it. Instead, I got a more fitting elementary position in Raytown. I know now this is where I was meant to be. For the first time in my life I can say that I love my job.
May- Went to the doctor to see what we could do about having a baby and was told we couldn't have babies unless I had three operations (or more).
June- Made a baby. On our own. With no surgeries. Happiness
July- "Took the summer off" and had a great time hanging out with my son. We made regular trips to the library, planned trips to the zoo and other play dates and made art projects at home. He is so much fun!
August- Threw a baby shower for my best friend, started my new job, Baptised Caiden and celebrated Jay's 30th birthday (in that order). This month was full of all kinds of crazy events that I planned so unfortunately it was a little stressful. Everything turned out fine and all parties were a big success.
September- I'm pretty sure we were here for that month and did lots of interesting things but I really can't think of any of them.
October- We found out we were having another boy! I thought for sure I would be disappointed that we found out instead of choosing to be surprised but so far I am okay with it. Since money has been a little tight this year it is comforting knowing we already have everything for a little boy and the seasons seem like they are going to work out as well. We have bought a few things that are not hand-me-downs and are special to this little boy.
November- I was put on bed rest. Ugg! Only for a week but it felt like it was much longer. I don't know how women who are on it for months at a time can do it. I still found myself cheating by doing things around the house or even leaving the house. Everything turned out fine though and I got to go back to work.
December- We had one of the best Christmas' ever. I have no idea what made this one so much better than any of the others but I think it has to do with Caiden and his age. There is just something about Christmas when you are a parent. You really start to understand what the season is all about. The older he gets the more he understands and gets excited for Santa to come too. Funny story- He woke up the morning after Christmas and asked me if I thought Santa came again. Too funny!
I hope everyone has had a fantastic 2009! Be careful tonight and enjoy the start to a new year!
Welcome 2010!
Thursday, December 31, 2009
Tuesday, December 22, 2009
5 Generations of Awesome
Last weekend we had our Marshfield Family Christmas. Since we are so spread out, we don't get many chances for us ALL to get together so it is always special when it happens- not to mention crazy! My Great Grandpa Turner lives in Iowa so we don't get to see him much. We are always very thankful of my Uncle Michael who brings him down so we can visit with him and get lots of 5 generation pictures. For those of you who don't know, this is my Grandma Ginny's Dad, my Dad's Grandpa, my Great Grandpa and Caiden's Great Great Grandpa. Whew! Caiden is actually named Caiden Turner Cummings after him. It is not every day that a kid gets to hang out with his great great grandpa you know?! At 95 years old my Grandpa is an amazing person full of spunk (as you can tell by the goofy pictures we took!). We had such a good time! Here are just a few shots we took of the 5 generations.
Thursday, December 17, 2009
30 Weeks!
WOW !
It has been awhile since I compared my old pictures with my new pictures. What a huge difference in the two bellies!? Both pictures were taken at 30 weeks. The top one was with Caiden and the bottom one was today. I could tell I was carrying this one higher than Caiden but in the pictures you can really tell the difference. I am more uncomfortable when sitting this time and have a hard time breathing. With Caiden, not only did I carry him low but I he was more of the watermelon shape versus the basketball shape this one seems to be in.
I have no real news to report but no news is good news right!? Tomorrow is a half day at school and then we get a two week break before heading back January 4th. I just thought I might throw that in for those of you who will be working those days. Ha ha! I love my job!
Tuesday, December 1, 2009
YAY!!
My baby is healthy.
I am healthy.
I am off bed rest.
Everything looks WONDERFUL!
We saw every inch of this little man's body and he is absolutely positively perfect.
What they found was actually a lake. These are common and completely normal to have. It is basically blood pooling in your placenta and my lake happens to have a large area- no big deal.
It was actually an amazing experience. The first few minutes were intense because I wasn't sure what the perinatologist was looking for and she was asking me all the scary questions. Before long Baby Boy was showing off the goods and kicking her as hard as he could. I have been saying all along that he is feisty but it was nice someone else got to see him in action too! They couldn't believe how active he was!
Since he is growing normally and we have determined I DON'T have a hemorrhage, they aren't concerned about my weight anymore. At first they were worried that I wasn't gaining enough and that it might be affecting his growth somehow. Boy were they wrong! He is measuring right at 28 weeks 2 days. Technically I am 27 weeks 5 days so he is right on target. He has chubby cheeks (like me) and tons of hair (like Jay). I couldn't see it but they kept trying to point it out. They said it is unusual to have that much hair this early on.
I had to reschedule my follow up doctor's visit because she got called out on a delivery. I have it rescheduled for next Monday. The Perinatologist told me I should be able to go off of bed rest though because I had a completely healthy and normal pregnancy. I plan on going back to school tomorrow and I am more than ready! In fact, after my appointment I couldn't bring myself to go back to the house. I drove around town and did a little window shopping in some stores.
Thanks for everyone who has had us in their thoughts and prayers. It paid off! We appreciate everything everyone has done for us.
This has been a fantastic day and I hope yours has too!
I am healthy.
I am off bed rest.
Everything looks WONDERFUL!
We saw every inch of this little man's body and he is absolutely positively perfect.
What they found was actually a lake. These are common and completely normal to have. It is basically blood pooling in your placenta and my lake happens to have a large area- no big deal.
It was actually an amazing experience. The first few minutes were intense because I wasn't sure what the perinatologist was looking for and she was asking me all the scary questions. Before long Baby Boy was showing off the goods and kicking her as hard as he could. I have been saying all along that he is feisty but it was nice someone else got to see him in action too! They couldn't believe how active he was!
Since he is growing normally and we have determined I DON'T have a hemorrhage, they aren't concerned about my weight anymore. At first they were worried that I wasn't gaining enough and that it might be affecting his growth somehow. Boy were they wrong! He is measuring right at 28 weeks 2 days. Technically I am 27 weeks 5 days so he is right on target. He has chubby cheeks (like me) and tons of hair (like Jay). I couldn't see it but they kept trying to point it out. They said it is unusual to have that much hair this early on.
I had to reschedule my follow up doctor's visit because she got called out on a delivery. I have it rescheduled for next Monday. The Perinatologist told me I should be able to go off of bed rest though because I had a completely healthy and normal pregnancy. I plan on going back to school tomorrow and I am more than ready! In fact, after my appointment I couldn't bring myself to go back to the house. I drove around town and did a little window shopping in some stores.
Thanks for everyone who has had us in their thoughts and prayers. It paid off! We appreciate everything everyone has done for us.
This has been a fantastic day and I hope yours has too!
Oh Yeah Baby!
This is what I woke up to in my inbox this morning. Things are looking up!
Jennifer-
Your paperwork was checked by me then processed to Dr. Williams many weeks ago. Dr Williams then processed your materials to the Graduate School. Based on my conversations with Dr. Williams, all materials are in order for your graduation.
Dr. Zelazek 12/1
Jennifer-
Your paperwork was checked by me then processed to Dr. Williams many weeks ago. Dr Williams then processed your materials to the Graduate School. Based on my conversations with Dr. Williams, all materials are in order for your graduation.
Dr. Zelazek 12/1
Monday, November 30, 2009
Have I ever told you....
I love my job?
With everything going on in my life right now I have found myself crying more than usual. The surprising thing about this is it's not the typical I'm-mad-and-I-don't-know-what-to-say-or-do-yet-so-all-I-can-do-is-cry. Instead I have found myself tearing up over the amazing amount of support that revolves around us. We have been reminded over and over that people are here for us and willing to help in any way they can.
I think the most surprising amount of support I have gotten has been from fellow teachers at my school. Even though they've only known me for a few short months, many have taken time out of their day to call, email, text or facebook me and let me know they can help. Just today I got 2 phone calls and 4 emails from teachers all asking what they can do for me.
I knew before I even took this job that this was where I wanted to be. I could tell just by walking into the building that is was a good fit for me. Everyone supports everyone and we work as a team. Wow, what a concept huh? Sure not everybody gets along but really, you would never know it. There is no real drama with the staff, only camaraderie.
I am so happy and blessed to be a part of this team. I was kinda bummed that I didn't get to say goodbye to my kiddos but they are in good hands. I was able to get the "old" art teacher to come in for me while I am gone. She left this job two years ago to become a faux finisher and subs in the district on her days off. How lucky am I? Someone who knows my school, knows he teachers, knows many of my kids and can teach art better than me! Having her there to take care of things has really put my mind at ease. It is hard to plan long term when you have never done something like this before.
I will let everyone know what happens tomorrow. I still believe in the power of positive thinking and I am ready to get more answers. Keep us in your prayers!
With everything going on in my life right now I have found myself crying more than usual. The surprising thing about this is it's not the typical I'm-mad-and-I-don't-know-what-to-say-or-do-yet-so-all-I-can-do-is-cry. Instead I have found myself tearing up over the amazing amount of support that revolves around us. We have been reminded over and over that people are here for us and willing to help in any way they can.
I think the most surprising amount of support I have gotten has been from fellow teachers at my school. Even though they've only known me for a few short months, many have taken time out of their day to call, email, text or facebook me and let me know they can help. Just today I got 2 phone calls and 4 emails from teachers all asking what they can do for me.
I knew before I even took this job that this was where I wanted to be. I could tell just by walking into the building that is was a good fit for me. Everyone supports everyone and we work as a team. Wow, what a concept huh? Sure not everybody gets along but really, you would never know it. There is no real drama with the staff, only camaraderie.
I am so happy and blessed to be a part of this team. I was kinda bummed that I didn't get to say goodbye to my kiddos but they are in good hands. I was able to get the "old" art teacher to come in for me while I am gone. She left this job two years ago to become a faux finisher and subs in the district on her days off. How lucky am I? Someone who knows my school, knows he teachers, knows many of my kids and can teach art better than me! Having her there to take care of things has really put my mind at ease. It is hard to plan long term when you have never done something like this before.
I will let everyone know what happens tomorrow. I still believe in the power of positive thinking and I am ready to get more answers. Keep us in your prayers!
Wednesday, November 25, 2009
Still 26 weeks
and now on bed rest.
As you can tell, things weren't what I thought they would be at my doctor's appointment today. Not only has the hemorrhage not resolved itself but it has grown. It is now covering 5 inches of my placenta. My little man is in the 58% for his size and still none of the other symptoms are present but somehow this thing has grown. I go in for a level 2 sonogram on Tuesday as well as a follow up with my doctor. I know for sure I am on bed rest until next then but it could be even longer depending on what they see.
If at any time I start to bleed Jay is to take me directly to St. Mary's and they will deliver him. This is such a scary thought. He only weighs 2 lbs 6 oz right now and I will only be 27 weeks tomorrow. As excited as I am to meet him it is too early! I can only hope that bed rest will do it's part in keeping this baby healthy. He's got some more cooking to do until he is ready to come out of the oven!
On a side note: I wish I would have put up all our decorations last weekend when I really wanted to. My tradition of waiting until Thanksgiving weekend kept me from doing this and now it is too late. I will be barking orders at Jay from the couch on where and how I like things set up. Sounds fun huh? It will be interesting too because I got some new things on sale last year that even I don't know where to put. Poor Jay! He has to do EVERYTHING now. Yes, EVERYTHING. Pick up Caiden, bathe him, feed him, play with him, clean the house, grocery shop, cook. I don't have a clue what we will do about Christmas shopping. We might have to do that together online this year. Thank goodness he is such an understanding person, a wonderful husband and an awesome Dad. I know it will be a lot for him to take on but he is the kind of person that will do it with a smile and lots of humor.
I will also have to miss my final presentation for my Masters class. There is one thing left that I was supposed to do before completing this class and that was video tape myself teaching. I don't know how that is going to happen on bed rest. I am hoping I can turn in what I have and be done with it. It is my last class and at this point, I just want to be done. I would hate to see all my hard work from this semester go down the drain because of a 15 minute video.
I'm sure that you can tell I am completely stressed out and shocked by this news so I am going to quit typing for today. The more I type the more I realize how busy I was and how hard it is going to be to just stop everything without warning and veg out on the couch. I'm sure some of you are thinking I am really crazy to complain about this! I did make one quick trip to the library today to grab a Jodi Picoult book to keep me from driving myself crazy. Ironically, the only book they had in of hers was Handle with Care. Sort of fitting don't you think?
I will keep everyone posted on all the craziness that seems to be happening. Keep us in your thoughts and prayers and have a Happy Thanksgiving!
As you can tell, things weren't what I thought they would be at my doctor's appointment today. Not only has the hemorrhage not resolved itself but it has grown. It is now covering 5 inches of my placenta. My little man is in the 58% for his size and still none of the other symptoms are present but somehow this thing has grown. I go in for a level 2 sonogram on Tuesday as well as a follow up with my doctor. I know for sure I am on bed rest until next then but it could be even longer depending on what they see.
If at any time I start to bleed Jay is to take me directly to St. Mary's and they will deliver him. This is such a scary thought. He only weighs 2 lbs 6 oz right now and I will only be 27 weeks tomorrow. As excited as I am to meet him it is too early! I can only hope that bed rest will do it's part in keeping this baby healthy. He's got some more cooking to do until he is ready to come out of the oven!
On a side note: I wish I would have put up all our decorations last weekend when I really wanted to. My tradition of waiting until Thanksgiving weekend kept me from doing this and now it is too late. I will be barking orders at Jay from the couch on where and how I like things set up. Sounds fun huh? It will be interesting too because I got some new things on sale last year that even I don't know where to put. Poor Jay! He has to do EVERYTHING now. Yes, EVERYTHING. Pick up Caiden, bathe him, feed him, play with him, clean the house, grocery shop, cook. I don't have a clue what we will do about Christmas shopping. We might have to do that together online this year. Thank goodness he is such an understanding person, a wonderful husband and an awesome Dad. I know it will be a lot for him to take on but he is the kind of person that will do it with a smile and lots of humor.
I will also have to miss my final presentation for my Masters class. There is one thing left that I was supposed to do before completing this class and that was video tape myself teaching. I don't know how that is going to happen on bed rest. I am hoping I can turn in what I have and be done with it. It is my last class and at this point, I just want to be done. I would hate to see all my hard work from this semester go down the drain because of a 15 minute video.
I'm sure that you can tell I am completely stressed out and shocked by this news so I am going to quit typing for today. The more I type the more I realize how busy I was and how hard it is going to be to just stop everything without warning and veg out on the couch. I'm sure some of you are thinking I am really crazy to complain about this! I did make one quick trip to the library today to grab a Jodi Picoult book to keep me from driving myself crazy. Ironically, the only book they had in of hers was Handle with Care. Sort of fitting don't you think?
I will keep everyone posted on all the craziness that seems to be happening. Keep us in your thoughts and prayers and have a Happy Thanksgiving!
Sunday, November 22, 2009
26 Weeks
I am now 26 weeks and things seem to be going well. I go back in for my sonogram on Wednesday so we will know if the hemorrhage has resolved itself. I still haven't had any of the symptoms that go along with this diagnosis so I am thinking everything will be fine. We are still staying positive and hoping for the best!
I have gained a total of 8-9 lbs and my belly has really rounded out in the last week or so. I am starting to feel the knees and elbows when he moves around and he gets the hiccups several times a day. I remember with Caiden, when he would get the hiccups they would last for-ev-er. This one seems to get them more often but they don't last as long. I also feel like this little boy moves more than Caiden did but who knows. We still have no idea what we are going to name him. I have a feeling we won't know until he gets here.
On a side note, we met some friends at Unity Village this weekend and had two mini photo sessions. It was a lot of fun and we got some pretty good shots of each other. Here are just a few of me and my boys. Don't you love my husband's shoes?
These two boys had so much fun together we could have made the whole session about them. These were taken right before we left. We called them the Bruise Crew because Caiden got smacked in the face with his soccer ball and Gage has a lump on his forehead from falling last night. Ahh, boys.
Tuesday, November 10, 2009
Things they don't teach you in school
I am slowly finding out there are many things they don't teach you about teaching in school. Some examples from this week are:
1. How many meetings you will have. Just this week I have 5! I have 3 meetings T, W and Th from 8-8:50 and 2 meetings T and Th from 4:30-5:30ish. Did I mention that is just this week?!
2. Plan times aren't usually for planning. Every week I lose my plan Tuesday so classroom teachers can collaborate and every Thursday to collaborate with the Music and PE teacher about behavior.
3. How attached you can get to kids. I had a class of kindergartners bring tears to my eyes talking about their "Dads". I use quotations here because nothing they mentioned sounded like the kind of Dad I am familiar with.
4. Triaging is such a great way to make kids feel special and find someone they can really trust. I have started triaging with 2 students and may be getting another one soon. These kids know they can come to me with anything even if it is just a little hug and smile...it may be the only they get that day.
5. You dream about your work. I very rarely make it through the night without dreaming about something going on in my class. It is usually the kind of dream I wake up to then re-dream it a little differently the next few times. Things like setting up materials and the process of handing them out.
I am of course still loving my job but like many other jobs it is a roller coaster ride. I have days where I am on a high and feeling really great about how everything is going. I also have days where I just can't seem to catch up and feel like I am set up to fail. Luckily for me I have wonderful kids and staff members to help me through the uphill days.
1. How many meetings you will have. Just this week I have 5! I have 3 meetings T, W and Th from 8-8:50 and 2 meetings T and Th from 4:30-5:30ish. Did I mention that is just this week?!
2. Plan times aren't usually for planning. Every week I lose my plan Tuesday so classroom teachers can collaborate and every Thursday to collaborate with the Music and PE teacher about behavior.
3. How attached you can get to kids. I had a class of kindergartners bring tears to my eyes talking about their "Dads". I use quotations here because nothing they mentioned sounded like the kind of Dad I am familiar with.
4. Triaging is such a great way to make kids feel special and find someone they can really trust. I have started triaging with 2 students and may be getting another one soon. These kids know they can come to me with anything even if it is just a little hug and smile...it may be the only they get that day.
5. You dream about your work. I very rarely make it through the night without dreaming about something going on in my class. It is usually the kind of dream I wake up to then re-dream it a little differently the next few times. Things like setting up materials and the process of handing them out.
I am of course still loving my job but like many other jobs it is a roller coaster ride. I have days where I am on a high and feeling really great about how everything is going. I also have days where I just can't seem to catch up and feel like I am set up to fail. Luckily for me I have wonderful kids and staff members to help me through the uphill days.
Saturday, November 7, 2009
Blogging
Gotta.Get.Better.At.Blogging
I couldn't tell you how many times I have thought of a good idea to blog about then never found the time to do it. Same story I have been saying over and over lately, I know.
Work has been super crazy and we got audited this week. It was an internal audit requested by our superintendent. Lots of mad shuffling and rushing to the copier since we weren't even given 24 hours to come up with our stuff. I guess she didn't want anyone to "create" things they weren't already use. Very sneaky!
Halloween was AWESOME! When I get a moment or two I will upload the pictures from my parent's spook house. Everyone hung out and helped with trick or treaters in one way or another. I must say I was very impressed by the detail, time and effort it takes to put that together.
Baby Boy is still kicking away like crazy and I have no signs to date that anything is going on with the hemorrhage. I also have belly shots to share but again, they are on my camera.
We are busy this weekend with Curious George LIVE and making room in our garage so we can finish up Caiden's room and start thinking about the baby room. I am only 24 weeks so we have time but living with rooms in limbo is killing me! I just want them done so I can relax! Is anyone else like that? I don't feel comfortable living here when every room is a disaster area with furniture everywhere.
Well gotta go! The man with the yellow shirt (Jay) is telling me it is time for George!
I couldn't tell you how many times I have thought of a good idea to blog about then never found the time to do it. Same story I have been saying over and over lately, I know.
Work has been super crazy and we got audited this week. It was an internal audit requested by our superintendent. Lots of mad shuffling and rushing to the copier since we weren't even given 24 hours to come up with our stuff. I guess she didn't want anyone to "create" things they weren't already use. Very sneaky!
Halloween was AWESOME! When I get a moment or two I will upload the pictures from my parent's spook house. Everyone hung out and helped with trick or treaters in one way or another. I must say I was very impressed by the detail, time and effort it takes to put that together.
Baby Boy is still kicking away like crazy and I have no signs to date that anything is going on with the hemorrhage. I also have belly shots to share but again, they are on my camera.
We are busy this weekend with Curious George LIVE and making room in our garage so we can finish up Caiden's room and start thinking about the baby room. I am only 24 weeks so we have time but living with rooms in limbo is killing me! I just want them done so I can relax! Is anyone else like that? I don't feel comfortable living here when every room is a disaster area with furniture everywhere.
Well gotta go! The man with the yellow shirt (Jay) is telling me it is time for George!
Sunday, October 25, 2009
We Know!
For most of you this is old news but for others here it goes....
We're having a boy!
We found out about a week and a half ago but for some reason it has taken me this long to blog about it. Jay and I are so happy. I was afraid I might be disappointed if we found out but it is still exciting. We have no idea what we will name him and probably won't know until he gets here....that 's how it was with Caiden. You see, Jay likes to nix ALL the names I come up with but doesn't like to contribute his ideas AT ALL. Typical Jay. It is a bit harder this time for me now that I am teaching. Some of the names I have always liked I now have students with those names. No worries though. I know it will all work out.
One thing we did find out at my doctor's appointment was that I have a sub cordial hemorrhage (SCH). It sounds pretty scary and I guess it could be. As for right now I have no restrictions and I go back in a month for another sonogram to see if it has resolved itself. I will know more then I guess.
Basically from what I have read on the Internet (bad Jenni) there are large and small hemorrhages. The large ones are typically cause for concern and the small ones usually absorb and resolve themselves. Most women actually have some kind of symptom that goes along with this condition and I haven't had any of them (bleeding, cramping, baby measuring small).
I'm cautious with my actions but trying not to drive myself crazy. This has been a very long road for our family and we have gotten by on the power of positive thinking. I truly think if my doctor was overly concerned with what she saw she would of had me come in earlier than a month AND she would have had a list of restrictions for me. That being said- it never hurts to pray for us!
I have more belly shots but I won't bore you with them today. I am still right on target with my weight and growth. I have now gained 5 lbs and my belly is measuring 24 cm (I am 22 weeks so give or take a few cm and you know you are growing on track).
We're having a boy!
We found out about a week and a half ago but for some reason it has taken me this long to blog about it. Jay and I are so happy. I was afraid I might be disappointed if we found out but it is still exciting. We have no idea what we will name him and probably won't know until he gets here....that 's how it was with Caiden. You see, Jay likes to nix ALL the names I come up with but doesn't like to contribute his ideas AT ALL. Typical Jay. It is a bit harder this time for me now that I am teaching. Some of the names I have always liked I now have students with those names. No worries though. I know it will all work out.
One thing we did find out at my doctor's appointment was that I have a sub cordial hemorrhage (SCH). It sounds pretty scary and I guess it could be. As for right now I have no restrictions and I go back in a month for another sonogram to see if it has resolved itself. I will know more then I guess.
Basically from what I have read on the Internet (bad Jenni) there are large and small hemorrhages. The large ones are typically cause for concern and the small ones usually absorb and resolve themselves. Most women actually have some kind of symptom that goes along with this condition and I haven't had any of them (bleeding, cramping, baby measuring small).
I'm cautious with my actions but trying not to drive myself crazy. This has been a very long road for our family and we have gotten by on the power of positive thinking. I truly think if my doctor was overly concerned with what she saw she would of had me come in earlier than a month AND she would have had a list of restrictions for me. That being said- it never hurts to pray for us!
I have more belly shots but I won't bore you with them today. I am still right on target with my weight and growth. I have now gained 5 lbs and my belly is measuring 24 cm (I am 22 weeks so give or take a few cm and you know you are growing on track).
Wednesday, October 14, 2009
Conversations with a Two Year Old.
I have had many interesting conversations with Caiden and I try to share them when I can. The car ride home today was absolutely hysterical and I couldn't wait to get home to post about it.
The drive was a little longer tonight because we had to stop for dinner so we had plenty of time to catch up with one another. Caiden definitely kept us entertained the whole time.
It all started like this....
"Caiden what did you do today?"
"I stepped on a squirrel's nuts."
What do you say to that?! I knew what he was talking about but it was just too funny.
"Caiden how are you feeling today?"
"I am sick"
"I know sweetheart. You are so tough"
"I love you Caiden!"
"Thanks"
"Who do you love?"
"I love Libby." (unfortunately he was talking about his friend from school, not my sister. Sorry Lib!)
This is how our car ride ended....
"Mommy I got something on my butt."
"What do you mean you have something on your butt? Did you go poopy?"
"No, I no poopy."
"Then what do you have on your butt?"
"I don't know, it's just a thing."
Just for the record I still don't know the answer to that question. When we got home I checked his diaper and he was clean.
The drive was a little longer tonight because we had to stop for dinner so we had plenty of time to catch up with one another. Caiden definitely kept us entertained the whole time.
It all started like this....
"Caiden what did you do today?"
"I stepped on a squirrel's nuts."
What do you say to that?! I knew what he was talking about but it was just too funny.
"Caiden how are you feeling today?"
"I am sick"
"I know sweetheart. You are so tough"
"I love you Caiden!"
"Thanks"
"Who do you love?"
"I love Libby." (unfortunately he was talking about his friend from school, not my sister. Sorry Lib!)
This is how our car ride ended....
"Mommy I got something on my butt."
"What do you mean you have something on your butt? Did you go poopy?"
"No, I no poopy."
"Then what do you have on your butt?"
"I don't know, it's just a thing."
Just for the record I still don't know the answer to that question. When we got home I checked his diaper and he was clean.
Friday, October 9, 2009
Lets Compare
I have been meaning to do this since this summer but I couldn't find the time. Thankfully tonight I found it! These are pictures taken at Deana Rose last summer and this summer. Look at how much he changed?! He speaks so clear and the conversations we have are amazing.
Now lets compare baby bumps.
The top picture is 21 weeks with Caiden and the bottom one is from this Thursday. I am 20 weeks now and I thought for sure I was bigger this time around. Maybe not! It's hard to tell by the photos but it looks pretty close. I think for next time I am going to try to find the same clothes from the first pregnancy and see if we can tell a difference. We go in next Friday for our sonogram so we will keep you posted on whether we decide to find out or not.
Sunday, September 20, 2009
Buttons and Belllies
I figured it was time for an update!
I am now 17 1/2 weeks and at the end of my 4th month. All my doctors visits have gone well and everything looks good.
I have no idea if I am carrying a boy or a girl. With Caiden I just knew it was a boy from the very beginning. At about 7 months I started wondering if I had been wrong and that it was a girl but that only lasted about a week or two and then I was convinced he was a boy again.
I think because everything is so different in MY life it is affecting my pregnancy as well. With Caiden it was a textbook pregnancy. No concerns, no extra doctors visits, no medicine, nothing out of the ordinary. I had an office job where I sat at a desk most of the day and now I am on my feet all day and going non-stop. I also was a little sicker in the first few months this time. I truly believe this was due to the medicine I was on though. There seemed to be a pattern with when and why I would get sick. Some similarities are the things I crave and the food aversions I have. The pregnancy symptoms are the same too (except for the morning sickness).
When I went Monday she told me the heart rate was between 130-140. According to Old Wives Tales this indicates it is a boy. Since Caiden has recently changed his mind from girl to boy I decided to take some online tests to see what they say. I took three. The first said it was 68% a girl. The second one said it was for sure a boy. The third one said it was inconclusive because I am not far enough along yet. HA! Serves me right I guess for trying to cheat. We go in a month to have our sonogram and this time it is up to Jay to decide whether we find out or not. (I got to decide last time to keep it a surprise so he gets to this time)
I have a small baby bump. I am already wearing maternity clothes because they are so much more comfortable. I can still fit into my regular clothes but it is so much easier to give in and start wearing them even if they are really, really big on me. It depends on what I am wearing, some of them you can barely see my bump and some of them I look like I have a HUGE bump.
From the beginning I have been weighing myself to make sure I am not gaining weight too fast. I was a little worried this time that I would over do it since it is my second and I am not working out like I was with Caiden. I worked out 4-5 times a week up until my 8th month with him so I managed to only gain a total of 29 lbs. So far with this one I fluctuate back and forth between 2-3 lbs and I am almost 5 months. According to my book anywhere from 5-10 is acceptable at this time. So far, so good.
This baby is a mover and a shaker! I have been feeling movement since early on, 12-13 weeks to be exact. I think because it is my second I recognized it faster than I did with Caiden. I have found a sure-fire way to get it moving is to eat a piece of pepperoni pizza. That was a fun night....
We will start taking the weekly baby bump pictures starting at 20 weeks like we did with Caiden. I can't wait to see them! I will make sure to fill you all in on everything! Thanks for reading such a long post!
I am now 17 1/2 weeks and at the end of my 4th month. All my doctors visits have gone well and everything looks good.
I have no idea if I am carrying a boy or a girl. With Caiden I just knew it was a boy from the very beginning. At about 7 months I started wondering if I had been wrong and that it was a girl but that only lasted about a week or two and then I was convinced he was a boy again.
I think because everything is so different in MY life it is affecting my pregnancy as well. With Caiden it was a textbook pregnancy. No concerns, no extra doctors visits, no medicine, nothing out of the ordinary. I had an office job where I sat at a desk most of the day and now I am on my feet all day and going non-stop. I also was a little sicker in the first few months this time. I truly believe this was due to the medicine I was on though. There seemed to be a pattern with when and why I would get sick. Some similarities are the things I crave and the food aversions I have. The pregnancy symptoms are the same too (except for the morning sickness).
When I went Monday she told me the heart rate was between 130-140. According to Old Wives Tales this indicates it is a boy. Since Caiden has recently changed his mind from girl to boy I decided to take some online tests to see what they say. I took three. The first said it was 68% a girl. The second one said it was for sure a boy. The third one said it was inconclusive because I am not far enough along yet. HA! Serves me right I guess for trying to cheat. We go in a month to have our sonogram and this time it is up to Jay to decide whether we find out or not. (I got to decide last time to keep it a surprise so he gets to this time)
I have a small baby bump. I am already wearing maternity clothes because they are so much more comfortable. I can still fit into my regular clothes but it is so much easier to give in and start wearing them even if they are really, really big on me. It depends on what I am wearing, some of them you can barely see my bump and some of them I look like I have a HUGE bump.
From the beginning I have been weighing myself to make sure I am not gaining weight too fast. I was a little worried this time that I would over do it since it is my second and I am not working out like I was with Caiden. I worked out 4-5 times a week up until my 8th month with him so I managed to only gain a total of 29 lbs. So far with this one I fluctuate back and forth between 2-3 lbs and I am almost 5 months. According to my book anywhere from 5-10 is acceptable at this time. So far, so good.
This baby is a mover and a shaker! I have been feeling movement since early on, 12-13 weeks to be exact. I think because it is my second I recognized it faster than I did with Caiden. I have found a sure-fire way to get it moving is to eat a piece of pepperoni pizza. That was a fun night....
We will start taking the weekly baby bump pictures starting at 20 weeks like we did with Caiden. I can't wait to see them! I will make sure to fill you all in on everything! Thanks for reading such a long post!
Saturday, September 12, 2009
Quick Funny Story
Last Friday we met up with some friends for dinner and decided to take Caiden with us. We ate at Hikari Japanese Steak House and Caiden loved it! He had never seen anything like that so it was quite a treat for him. We told him all about the fire and volcano and when the time came he covered his eyes but left his fingers spread far enough apart he could still see. When it was over he made sure to tell us it scared him but he liked it anyway. The entire dinner Caiden sat quietly and watched the chef work his magic on the grill with his spatula and knives.
It must have really had an impact on him because this morning he got out some cooking tools (an egg separator and a measuring cup) and started whipping up something on "the grill". Then he told me to get ready and he pretended to toss me some of his delicious food in the air....just the shrimp they toss to you at the end of your meal at Hikari. It was too funny. He would go back and forth between Jay and me and we would pretend like we dropped it and needed another toss.
He is just like a little sponge soaking up EVERYTHING. This dinner was over a week ago and he hadn't mentioned it to me or Jay at all. We really have to watch what we say and do around him at all times!
It must have really had an impact on him because this morning he got out some cooking tools (an egg separator and a measuring cup) and started whipping up something on "the grill". Then he told me to get ready and he pretended to toss me some of his delicious food in the air....just the shrimp they toss to you at the end of your meal at Hikari. It was too funny. He would go back and forth between Jay and me and we would pretend like we dropped it and needed another toss.
He is just like a little sponge soaking up EVERYTHING. This dinner was over a week ago and he hadn't mentioned it to me or Jay at all. We really have to watch what we say and do around him at all times!
Monday, August 24, 2009
I.Love.My.Life
I know it has been awhile since I posted because I have been incredibly busy doing so many things.
As all of you know I started school the first week of August. I have only had students for a week and a day now but I can tell already that I LOVE MY JOB! I honestly don't think I have ever said that before. I was so happy to even find a teaching position but to have found one in a school as awesome as mine, well, I know I am truly blessed.
Why is my school so awesome? Let me count the ways.
1. The staff are all very friendly with one another and get along really well. Sometimes this is hard to find in schools. Teaching is like any other job and people can get caddy or clicky. While there may be SOME of this at my school it definitely is low key and it doesn't seem to create issues like it can at other schools.
2. Our kids give the best hugs. My morning job is bus duty. This is one of my favorite parts of the day. I get to see my kids first thing in the morning and see what kind of day they are having. So many of them (especially the chronic kids) want to give hugs and tell you some kind of story. This is great for building relationships.
3. We do Back Snacks for our kiddos. Because my school is made up of an estimated 70% of children who come from poverty we make sure they ALWAYS EAT. We feed them breakfast AND lunch every single day....even half days. Every Friday we have what we call Back Snacks which means we send them home with enough food to get through the weekend. I had never heard of this before starting my job but I think it is an amazing concept and I am so happy we have something like that to offer our families.
4. We are incredibly structured. This is something some of our kids are lacking at home. Being as structured as we are doesn't only help the students but it helps the teachers too. There are procedures for EVERYTHING so students should always know what is expected of them.
5. My principal didn't freak out when I told him I was PREGNANT! Yep, that's right. I am 13 1/2 weeks along and doing GREAT! We actually never got the chance to have my surgeries this summer because I got pregnant. Because of my history my REI monitored me very closely for the first 10 weeks and now I have been released to a regular OB. I have been on a regular cocktail of meds from the beginning which caused a little sickness and dizziness but nothing I couldn't handle. I am now off one of my meds so I only take a prenatal pill, a DHA supplement and a baby aspirin once a day. Not too bad.
The interesting part is that my due date is February 25th. My nephew's birthday is the 18th, mine is the 21st, my niece's is the 24th and my older sister's is the 27th. That's right, we are all three days apart. Who knows where this baby will fall but there is a good chance it might happen on one of our birthdays!
I have already felt movement from this little one and I have gotten to see him/her three times already. The last time was two weeks ago and I was amazed at how much it already looked like real baby. I was also surprised at how active it was. It moved the entire time we were watching him/her!
When we ask Caiden if he is having a baby sister or brother he almost always answers sister. We will have to wait and see if he is right!
Other things that I have failed to blog about but are important to know:
On August 9th my son was baptised at the Lee's Summit United Methodist Church. We had friends and family in attendance and it was truly an amazing day.
August 18th I officially started my last class in order to get my MAT in December. It is going to be a class with a lot of work but it will be worth it when I see that pay increase. I have worked so hard the last 3 years to get to this point and it is so good to finally see the light at the end of the tunnel.
My husband turned 30 on August 20th. I had a semi-surprise party for him with the help of many of our close friends. We celebrated this last Saturday and HAD A BLAST! It was so good to see everyone. We got back in touch with some of our good friends that we haven't seen in forever and got to spend quality time with our friends we see once a month....or something like that.
Okay, I will keep you posted on my little bean and I will try my hardest to post more often.
As all of you know I started school the first week of August. I have only had students for a week and a day now but I can tell already that I LOVE MY JOB! I honestly don't think I have ever said that before. I was so happy to even find a teaching position but to have found one in a school as awesome as mine, well, I know I am truly blessed.
Why is my school so awesome? Let me count the ways.
1. The staff are all very friendly with one another and get along really well. Sometimes this is hard to find in schools. Teaching is like any other job and people can get caddy or clicky. While there may be SOME of this at my school it definitely is low key and it doesn't seem to create issues like it can at other schools.
2. Our kids give the best hugs. My morning job is bus duty. This is one of my favorite parts of the day. I get to see my kids first thing in the morning and see what kind of day they are having. So many of them (especially the chronic kids) want to give hugs and tell you some kind of story. This is great for building relationships.
3. We do Back Snacks for our kiddos. Because my school is made up of an estimated 70% of children who come from poverty we make sure they ALWAYS EAT. We feed them breakfast AND lunch every single day....even half days. Every Friday we have what we call Back Snacks which means we send them home with enough food to get through the weekend. I had never heard of this before starting my job but I think it is an amazing concept and I am so happy we have something like that to offer our families.
4. We are incredibly structured. This is something some of our kids are lacking at home. Being as structured as we are doesn't only help the students but it helps the teachers too. There are procedures for EVERYTHING so students should always know what is expected of them.
5. My principal didn't freak out when I told him I was PREGNANT! Yep, that's right. I am 13 1/2 weeks along and doing GREAT! We actually never got the chance to have my surgeries this summer because I got pregnant. Because of my history my REI monitored me very closely for the first 10 weeks and now I have been released to a regular OB. I have been on a regular cocktail of meds from the beginning which caused a little sickness and dizziness but nothing I couldn't handle. I am now off one of my meds so I only take a prenatal pill, a DHA supplement and a baby aspirin once a day. Not too bad.
The interesting part is that my due date is February 25th. My nephew's birthday is the 18th, mine is the 21st, my niece's is the 24th and my older sister's is the 27th. That's right, we are all three days apart. Who knows where this baby will fall but there is a good chance it might happen on one of our birthdays!
I have already felt movement from this little one and I have gotten to see him/her three times already. The last time was two weeks ago and I was amazed at how much it already looked like real baby. I was also surprised at how active it was. It moved the entire time we were watching him/her!
When we ask Caiden if he is having a baby sister or brother he almost always answers sister. We will have to wait and see if he is right!
Other things that I have failed to blog about but are important to know:
On August 9th my son was baptised at the Lee's Summit United Methodist Church. We had friends and family in attendance and it was truly an amazing day.
August 18th I officially started my last class in order to get my MAT in December. It is going to be a class with a lot of work but it will be worth it when I see that pay increase. I have worked so hard the last 3 years to get to this point and it is so good to finally see the light at the end of the tunnel.
My husband turned 30 on August 20th. I had a semi-surprise party for him with the help of many of our close friends. We celebrated this last Saturday and HAD A BLAST! It was so good to see everyone. We got back in touch with some of our good friends that we haven't seen in forever and got to spend quality time with our friends we see once a month....or something like that.
Okay, I will keep you posted on my little bean and I will try my hardest to post more often.
Monday, August 3, 2009
No Posts Lately
I know I have heard many other bloggers talk about how they will come up with great things to blog about and then get to the keyboard and realize their mind is blank. That is me. I haven't been working this summer but somehow I have kept incredibly busy. So busy in fact that when I get the chance to relax that is exactly what I do...and nothing else. I officially start back to school tomorrow and I am so excited...nervous....excited.....you get the idea.
The month of August is an insanely busy month for me and I feel like I have been preparing for it all summer.
To start things off me and a few of my high school friends had a baby shower for my best friend Sarah last weekend. It was so much fun to plan and we all had a great time visiting and catching up with each other. I made my second diaper cake and it was a success! This one I did a little differently but I think it worked anyway. Sarah and her little boy Colt made out like bandits on the gifts- I couldn't believe how much cool stuff they got!
This coming weekend is Caiden's Baptism. We have a room rented out at Harris Park so we can spend some time visiting with family and friends afterward. All Caiden knows is that he is having a party this weekend and he got to pick out the plates, etc. Of course, he picked yellow EVERYTHING. He is obsessed with yellow!
The following weekend is the last weekend before the kids start back at school so I am going to be camped out in my room finishing up things. I went for the first time today to drop things off and get organized and I almost started crying. The teacher who was there before me left EVERYTHING! Not all good stuff either. The drawers were full of junk and trash and the closets are full of boxes with random things in them. There is no rhyme or or reason for how half of the stuff is put together. It is going to take many hours of reorganizing the room until I feel good about being there. I did get my desk put together though so that is one step in the right direction.
The next weekend is my husband's 30th birthday party. The fun part is that it is a semi- surprise party. He thinks we are just going camping with some close friends but what he doesn't know is that I have some surprises up my sleeve. I wanted to do something special for him but I also wanted him to have something to look forward to.
There are a few other things we have going on too but none worth mentioning right now. I will keep my focus on school for now since it is about to consume most of my time and energy.
I hope everyone has a great rest of the summer!
The month of August is an insanely busy month for me and I feel like I have been preparing for it all summer.
To start things off me and a few of my high school friends had a baby shower for my best friend Sarah last weekend. It was so much fun to plan and we all had a great time visiting and catching up with each other. I made my second diaper cake and it was a success! This one I did a little differently but I think it worked anyway. Sarah and her little boy Colt made out like bandits on the gifts- I couldn't believe how much cool stuff they got!
This coming weekend is Caiden's Baptism. We have a room rented out at Harris Park so we can spend some time visiting with family and friends afterward. All Caiden knows is that he is having a party this weekend and he got to pick out the plates, etc. Of course, he picked yellow EVERYTHING. He is obsessed with yellow!
The following weekend is the last weekend before the kids start back at school so I am going to be camped out in my room finishing up things. I went for the first time today to drop things off and get organized and I almost started crying. The teacher who was there before me left EVERYTHING! Not all good stuff either. The drawers were full of junk and trash and the closets are full of boxes with random things in them. There is no rhyme or or reason for how half of the stuff is put together. It is going to take many hours of reorganizing the room until I feel good about being there. I did get my desk put together though so that is one step in the right direction.
The next weekend is my husband's 30th birthday party. The fun part is that it is a semi- surprise party. He thinks we are just going camping with some close friends but what he doesn't know is that I have some surprises up my sleeve. I wanted to do something special for him but I also wanted him to have something to look forward to.
There are a few other things we have going on too but none worth mentioning right now. I will keep my focus on school for now since it is about to consume most of my time and energy.
I hope everyone has a great rest of the summer!
Sunday, July 19, 2009
What a great day!
We were lucky enough to go to 2 out of 3 games this weekend at the new stadium. We went Friday night with some friends and had a blast. It was perfect weather to be outside and watching a ballgame. Caiden was even lucky enough to get to meet Slugger! I wish I would have brought my camera but I didn't because I had too much in my purse already- bummer! He was in awe the entire time Slugger was holding him. It was too cute.
Sunday we made our way back to the stadium with Jay's parents for an afternoon game. It was a little warmer this time around but still a very nice day. It happened to be a golden glove day for the first 10,000 kids and this one was signed by Frank White. Caiden is SO proud of his glove. I am so happy we got one...it was close!
Sunday we made our way back to the stadium with Jay's parents for an afternoon game. It was a little warmer this time around but still a very nice day. It happened to be a golden glove day for the first 10,000 kids and this one was signed by Frank White. Caiden is SO proud of his glove. I am so happy we got one...it was close!
Here is Caiden with his golden glove.
Our group shot. I found a metal box sitting next to where we were standing so I set the timer on my camera and prayed no one would walk in front of it. It worked!
The view from our seats. Look at that screen!
This is the boys in front of the Frank White statue.
Caiden hanging out on Poppy's lap.
Caiden hanging out on Poppy's lap.
Our group shot. I found a metal box sitting next to where we were standing so I set the timer on my camera and prayed no one would walk in front of it. It worked!
We weren't lucky enough to see Slugger a second time but we did get a picture with "him".
The boys watching from the outfield.
The view from our seats. Look at that screen!
They have added all kinds of interesting events that go on in between innings. Along with a kiss cam (which we already had) we now have a smile cam, a fan of the game cam, kids cam and a flex cam. When I started shooting this image it was a couple of little boys trying really hard to show us their tickets to the gun show.
Thursday, July 9, 2009
Baseball
Today I played the most interesting game of baseball ever. To start off, I was always the batter and Caiden was always the pitcher.... and the catcher. Now you would think that would be fun right, to always get to bat? What I didn't mention was that I was also the one that had to field the balls while Caiden got to run the bases. Hmmm, what kind of baseball has he been watching? That's another interesting fact about this day (and most other days actually). We usually gather in his bed; Me, Caiden, Bunny, George and Slugger and watch "Daddy" play "baseball" on the "TV". Really it is just the 5 of us staring at the black dresser in his room. He will yell "Go Daddy!' and "Hit that ball!" while he cheers. We, of course, cheer right along with him. The kids got a crazy imagination!
These aren't the best pictures because I didn't change any of the settings. I just grabbed my camera and set the timer and ran back to the "field". Sorry! And in case you are wondering, yes we are in our pjs playing in the front yard. Hey, it's summer!
These aren't the best pictures because I didn't change any of the settings. I just grabbed my camera and set the timer and ran back to the "field". Sorry! And in case you are wondering, yes we are in our pjs playing in the front yard. Hey, it's summer!
Thursday, July 2, 2009
Time at Home
When I first found out I was going to stay home with Caiden this summer I have to admit, I was nervous. We both go a little stir crazy when we are at home too long and without that second income I didn't know what we could do together that wouldn't cost a lot. Turns out, there are so many free or inexpensive things to do together and we haven't even done half of them yet!
We have spent some time in Jefferson City hanging out at my parent's pool with family, gone to various parks around Lee's Summit, a free trip to the zoo, lots of free shows at the library, Independence Center play area on rainy days and a few play dates with friends.
Since I have been the one planning all the events I thought it would be a good idea to let Caiden plan our day last Thursday. From the moment he woke up in the morning I asked him what he wanted to do. We, of course, started with breakfast and then went directly outside to play. He is really in to baseball so we practiced our plays together. After lunch and a long nap we went back outside to play some more before heading to Baskin Robbins for some ice cream. When Daddy got home we spent even more time outside playing before taking a bath and calling it a day.
I have had so much fun spending time and playing with him this summer. I am so excited because now that I am officially a teacher, I can do this EVERY summer. I love you Caiden!
Caiden with his "bat" and ball. Check out those shoes on the wrong feet!
His blue moustache from his raspberry sherbet.
This is what he grabbed when we were leaving for ice cream. His bag is full of action figures and cars.
Practicing that swing!
Wednesday, June 24, 2009
Lily Turned 1!
Lori and Jason are good friends of mine so when Lori contacted me and asked me to take some pictures of Lily I said YES! I don't usually do this sort of thing but since I am still learning all the functions of my camera I took on the challenge. I am so pleased with many of the shots that I got. Here are some copies that I converted into Black and Whites.
Lily is one of the sweetest little girls I know and it was so easy getting her to smile. I had a great time playing with you girls! Thank you for the opportunity!
Lily is one of the sweetest little girls I know and it was so easy getting her to smile. I had a great time playing with you girls! Thank you for the opportunity!
Thursday, June 11, 2009
Asherman's Syndrome
Ever heard of it? Neither had we!
As I am sure you have already guessed, I have been diagnosed with Asherman's Syndrome. So.....What the heck is Asherman's Syndrome?! The image below kind of shows you.
Basically I had my first D&C (2005) and after my loss about a year ago (2008) I had to get another D&C. Through this process I developed Asherman's Syndrome. Most likely it was caused by excessive scrapping in my uterus. There are only a few ways to develop AS and they all have to do with surgical procedures due to miscarriages, fibroids, cysts, etc.
What happens is scar tissue develops inside the uterus. As you can see in the image on the left, there isn't much room inside there for a baby. This is because the scar tissue grows and starts flattening the uterus like a pancake. When this happens not only is there no room for a fetus to implant but there is no blood supply to keep it alive.
As you know, there is no blood supply where there is scar tissue. This means I was producing healthy babies but they were getting no blood supply to the placenta causing me to miscarry. So this explains why we saw strong heartbeats and what appeared to be healthy babies....they were!
So what's next?
The truth is we aren't for sure. We have no idea how bad the damage is until we get in there and see. For now, this is what our schedule looks like for the next couple of months....
1. Blood work-- I have to get some blood work done to test for Antibodies. This is not related
to AS but the Dr. wants to be certain there is nothing else standing in our way.
2. Sono Hysterogram done-- This is where they inject saline into my uterus so they
can say, "Yes, it is definitely Asherman's Syndrome". The results of this test are
immediate because they are right there on the monitor for us to see.
3. Hysterosalpingogram (HSG)-- This is where they inject dye into my system so they
can see how extensive the damage is. It is rated like Endometriosis and has 4
levels of severity. It can also start in one area and branch out to others like
ovaries and fallopian tubes, etc. Again, immediate results.
4. Laser Laparoscopy-- This is where they go in through my belly button and zap all the scar
tissue with a laser. Cool huh?
If everything goes okay and looks okay.....
5. Wait 2 months-- UGG! I think this part will be the hardest for me. The Dr said it will take this long for my body to heal and be strong enough to take on a new pregnancy.
After that, it's on!
As I am sure you have already guessed, I have been diagnosed with Asherman's Syndrome. So.....What the heck is Asherman's Syndrome?! The image below kind of shows you.
On the left is what my uterus looks like and on the right is what it should look like.
Basically I had my first D&C (2005) and after my loss about a year ago (2008) I had to get another D&C. Through this process I developed Asherman's Syndrome. Most likely it was caused by excessive scrapping in my uterus. There are only a few ways to develop AS and they all have to do with surgical procedures due to miscarriages, fibroids, cysts, etc.
What happens is scar tissue develops inside the uterus. As you can see in the image on the left, there isn't much room inside there for a baby. This is because the scar tissue grows and starts flattening the uterus like a pancake. When this happens not only is there no room for a fetus to implant but there is no blood supply to keep it alive.
As you know, there is no blood supply where there is scar tissue. This means I was producing healthy babies but they were getting no blood supply to the placenta causing me to miscarry. So this explains why we saw strong heartbeats and what appeared to be healthy babies....they were!
So what's next?
The truth is we aren't for sure. We have no idea how bad the damage is until we get in there and see. For now, this is what our schedule looks like for the next couple of months....
1. Blood work-- I have to get some blood work done to test for Antibodies. This is not related
to AS but the Dr. wants to be certain there is nothing else standing in our way.
2. Sono Hysterogram done-- This is where they inject saline into my uterus so they
can say, "Yes, it is definitely Asherman's Syndrome". The results of this test are
immediate because they are right there on the monitor for us to see.
3. Hysterosalpingogram (HSG)-- This is where they inject dye into my system so they
can see how extensive the damage is. It is rated like Endometriosis and has 4
levels of severity. It can also start in one area and branch out to others like
ovaries and fallopian tubes, etc. Again, immediate results.
4. Laser Laparoscopy-- This is where they go in through my belly button and zap all the scar
tissue with a laser. Cool huh?
If everything goes okay and looks okay.....
5. Wait 2 months-- UGG! I think this part will be the hardest for me. The Dr said it will take this long for my body to heal and be strong enough to take on a new pregnancy.
After that, it's on!
Thursday, May 28, 2009
Jay-Cub! Eff Yeah!
So today is our 4 Year Anniversary and I thought I would do this post Jay style. If you know my husband at all you know he loves quoting movies. LOVES it. So here are my top 15 reasons for loving being married to him....movie-quote-style.
"And here...we...GO!"
#15) "Aww, he's just yakin on a bone."
Jay is super laid back about everything. I always thought I was pretty laid back but compared to this guy I am d.r.a.m.a.
#14) "Did we just become best friends?"
"Yep!"
"Do you wanna do karate in the garage?"
"Yep!"
Jay is my best friend....as cheesy as that sounds. I love hanging out with him.
#13) "Uh, oh oh oh sweet child of myeeeine"
He is a great dad even though he had little to no experience with kids before we had Caiden. (Thank you Abby for being such a great guinea pig!)
#12) "Is there sugar in syrup?"
"Yes"
"Then YES!"
He loves it when I bake. He has such a sweet tooth!
#11) "Stay golden Ponyboy"
He is very good at his job and is currently making all the money our household spends....scary!
#10) "I give you the Griswold family Christmas tree....lotta sap in here! Mmmm.....looks great!....little full, lotta sap."
He is great about creating family traditions for our family and getting excited about our holidays together. In fact, he quotes Christmas movies year round!
#9) "I can't talk...I'm out seeing a band....they SUCK...but I'm here!"
He LOVES to play the guitar on Rockband. Which is great because I love to play the drums. What a great pair?!
#8) "It's just like Santa's workshop except it smells like mushrooms and everyone looks like they want to hurt me."
If you aren't impressed by him the first time around, no big deal. This happens. But be ready to adore him after you have met him a few times. Trust me, this is normal and it happens to a lot of people.
#7) "Is he looking for a new haircut?"
"I don't know, what about a What-Would-Jesus-Do?...hee hee"
He goes to church with me. This is a big step for us for so many reasons.....
#6) "He will bring sexy back!"
"What do you mean brother Timberlake?"
"It will be gone! and he will bring it back!"
He is so so cute! Have you seen him all dressed up in his business suits? Yowza!
#5) "Now you see, the new world is inevitable."
"It's what?"
"Inevit- inevitable."
"One more time?"
"Inevitable! Things are inevitably going to change!"
He is so patient with me even when I can't get the words out quite right. (this happens more than I would like. There is a reason I am an artist!)
#4) "If I woke up tomorrow with my head sewn to the carpet, I wouldn't be more surprised than I am now."
He is great at surprising me. Everything from the big stuff like a trip to Vegas for my birtday to a bottle of wine on a random Tuesday night.
#3) "Why are you so sweaty?"
"I was watching Cops."
He watches Grey's Anatomy, The Hills and Desperate Housewives with me....WILLINGLY. Sometimes I think he gets into them a little more than I do.....
#2) "Answer your phone! Oh wait, that's my phone."
We get this joke and that's all that matters....but the best part is that our son walks around the house quoting his line. HA!
#1) "First we'll make snow angels for two hours, then we'll go ice skating, then we'll eat a whole role of tollhouse cookie dough as fast as we can and then....we'll snuggle."
He is the best snuggler I have ever met. Seriously, pillow forts, blankies, he has it down!
So there you have it. My top 15 reasons for celebrating today all quoted using his favorite movies. I love you Jay! You are the best! I can't wait for many many more years with you.
(*movie quotes from: Elf, Christmas Vacation, Stepbrothers, My Best Friend's Girl, Team America: World Police, SNL host Justin Timberlake & Dark Knight)
"And here...we...GO!"
#15) "Aww, he's just yakin on a bone."
Jay is super laid back about everything. I always thought I was pretty laid back but compared to this guy I am d.r.a.m.a.
#14) "Did we just become best friends?"
"Yep!"
"Do you wanna do karate in the garage?"
"Yep!"
Jay is my best friend....as cheesy as that sounds. I love hanging out with him.
#13) "Uh, oh oh oh sweet child of myeeeine"
He is a great dad even though he had little to no experience with kids before we had Caiden. (Thank you Abby for being such a great guinea pig!)
#12) "Is there sugar in syrup?"
"Yes"
"Then YES!"
He loves it when I bake. He has such a sweet tooth!
#11) "Stay golden Ponyboy"
He is very good at his job and is currently making all the money our household spends....scary!
#10) "I give you the Griswold family Christmas tree....lotta sap in here! Mmmm.....looks great!....little full, lotta sap."
He is great about creating family traditions for our family and getting excited about our holidays together. In fact, he quotes Christmas movies year round!
#9) "I can't talk...I'm out seeing a band....they SUCK...but I'm here!"
He LOVES to play the guitar on Rockband. Which is great because I love to play the drums. What a great pair?!
#8) "It's just like Santa's workshop except it smells like mushrooms and everyone looks like they want to hurt me."
If you aren't impressed by him the first time around, no big deal. This happens. But be ready to adore him after you have met him a few times. Trust me, this is normal and it happens to a lot of people.
#7) "Is he looking for a new haircut?"
"I don't know, what about a What-Would-Jesus-Do?...hee hee"
He goes to church with me. This is a big step for us for so many reasons.....
#6) "He will bring sexy back!"
"What do you mean brother Timberlake?"
"It will be gone! and he will bring it back!"
He is so so cute! Have you seen him all dressed up in his business suits? Yowza!
#5) "Now you see, the new world is inevitable."
"It's what?"
"Inevit- inevitable."
"One more time?"
"Inevitable! Things are inevitably going to change!"
He is so patient with me even when I can't get the words out quite right. (this happens more than I would like. There is a reason I am an artist!)
#4) "If I woke up tomorrow with my head sewn to the carpet, I wouldn't be more surprised than I am now."
He is great at surprising me. Everything from the big stuff like a trip to Vegas for my birtday to a bottle of wine on a random Tuesday night.
#3) "Why are you so sweaty?"
"I was watching Cops."
He watches Grey's Anatomy, The Hills and Desperate Housewives with me....WILLINGLY. Sometimes I think he gets into them a little more than I do.....
#2) "Answer your phone! Oh wait, that's my phone."
We get this joke and that's all that matters....but the best part is that our son walks around the house quoting his line. HA!
#1) "First we'll make snow angels for two hours, then we'll go ice skating, then we'll eat a whole role of tollhouse cookie dough as fast as we can and then....we'll snuggle."
He is the best snuggler I have ever met. Seriously, pillow forts, blankies, he has it down!
So there you have it. My top 15 reasons for celebrating today all quoted using his favorite movies. I love you Jay! You are the best! I can't wait for many many more years with you.
(*movie quotes from: Elf, Christmas Vacation, Stepbrothers, My Best Friend's Girl, Team America: World Police, SNL host Justin Timberlake & Dark Knight)
Wednesday, May 27, 2009
Downtown Shooting
Okay, okay so the title was a little dramatic but there was a lot of shooting...just the good ole fashioned kind with a camera. MY camera actually! I was invited to tag along with Rebecca on a "Trash the Dress" shoot and I had so much fun. I am still learning all the functions of my camera so I set the mode to AV and went to town. Here are some of the better ones from the shoot.
Thanks again Rebecca! I can't wait to see your shots!
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