Today, October 27, was Libby Anne's due date. It is hard to believe she has already been here for 4 1/2 weeks. And I can't imagine still being pregnant at this point.
My plan was for her to be late... a November baby. Most first babies are late, so I was told. Then I could stretch my maternity leave through the holidays and not go back to work until January. Clearly, I was not in charge of this situation. Libby Anne showed me who is the boss!
I am so thankful that Libby Anne is here, regardless of when she decided to make her entrance. She is the most precious little peanut! I can't imagine a day without her.
Our Family
Thursday, October 27, 2011
Wednesday, October 26, 2011
One Month Appointment
Libby Anne had her one month appointment today. I was very curious as to how much she weighs because Rick and I both feel like she has grown so much.
Our little munchkin is now 7 lbs 13 oz and 20 inches long. She has gained 26 oz in 16 days! Dr. Trundle says she is gaining weight quickly, but she has some catching up to do since she was a preemie. She is still in the 10th percentile for height and weight for her age, but he expects that will change over the next several months.
We were able to leave today without any shots. She needs her Hepatitis B shot, but it was a few days too early. She did not get her first one the day before she left the hospital, which was a little later than normal since she had been in the Special Care Unit. There has to be at least 30 days between the first and the second dose, so she will have to get hers at her next appointment... along with several other shots :( I am already dreading that day.
The doctor is very happy with Libby Anne's progress and says she is perfectly healthy!
Our little munchkin is now 7 lbs 13 oz and 20 inches long. She has gained 26 oz in 16 days! Dr. Trundle says she is gaining weight quickly, but she has some catching up to do since she was a preemie. She is still in the 10th percentile for height and weight for her age, but he expects that will change over the next several months.
We were able to leave today without any shots. She needs her Hepatitis B shot, but it was a few days too early. She did not get her first one the day before she left the hospital, which was a little later than normal since she had been in the Special Care Unit. There has to be at least 30 days between the first and the second dose, so she will have to get hers at her next appointment... along with several other shots :( I am already dreading that day.
The doctor is very happy with Libby Anne's progress and says she is perfectly healthy!
Tuesday, October 25, 2011
One Month Old!
Libby Anne is One Month old already!
When I think back over the last month, I get overwhelmed with emotions. I feel so blessed to be this little angel's Mommy.
This month has gone by so quickly. Libby Anne decided to surprise us and come 4 1/2 weeks early. She made quite an entrance! Rick and I loved our little Libby Anne before we even met her, when she was an inside baby... But I had no idea that I was capable of loving someone as much as I do this sweet little baby. She is my world.
The first 8 days were really challenging, emotionally and physically. Anyone who has had a baby in NICU can understand the roller coaster ride that is your baby's first days. She seemed so fragile yet oh so precious. Every little improvement was a huge milestone. Now it is hard to believe that her first meal when she was 3 days old was only 5 mL, but I remember being so proud of her for eating the entire amount through the little syringe. The IV in her little arm broke my heart, so when she finally got to have it removed after 6 days was such a huge relief. Not being able to hold her and kiss on her at first was terrible, but as she improved, we cherished those special moments with her even more. I am crying now just thinking about when I first held her naked little body against my chest- it was the most magical moment for me.
The NICU nurses were amazing and Libby Anne's pediatrician came by to check on her often (usually multiple times a day). They made it clear what progress Libby Anne needed to make- her breathing rate need to decrease, her oxygen level needed to stay high or else she would need to go in an oxygen tent, her bilirubens needed to decrease or else she would need light therapy, she needed to be able to regulate her own temperature, and she needed to eat enough and gain weight. Day by day, Libby Anne got stronger and stronger. She never needed an oxygen tent or light therapy. After losing some weight the first few days, she gradually started gaining. She was a fighter from the start and amazed us with her strength.
Our days were long and our nights were short. After I was discharged on Tuesday, two days after Libby Anne entered the world, we no longer could stay at the hospital over night with her. This was one of the most difficult things I have ever done. Having to leave my sweet girl was heart wrenching. I knew she was in good hands with the nurses, but it didn't make it any easier to have to part with her. We would stay as late as we could (usually around 10 or 11 pm), call in the middle of the night to check on her and would anxiously rush back to the hospital early in the morning. The hour commute, lack of sleep, and the immense worry and stress took its toll on us. But she is worth every second.
We finally got to bring Libby Anne home on Monday October 3. It was a little sad to leave all of the wonderful nurses who took such great care of Libby Anne and us, but we were so excited to be home as a family.
We were a little nervous about Libby Anne meeting her brother Jacks (our dog), but it went very well. Jacks is a great big brother- he is very gentle with her and very protective. Every time Libby Anne cries or makes noises, Jacks comes to check on her and make sure she is ok. It is really sweet.
Libby Anne has been to the doctor a couple times already. She is gaining weight like a champ and is even starting to finally fit into her newborn clothes at a month old. She was too long for the preemie clothes, so she has been wearing newborn clothes that are way too big.
We haven't ventured out into the world yet, except to go to the doctor. We have to be very careful of germs. The hospital was very nice, but we would rather not end up back there with a sick little girl.
Our lives have changed so much in the last month. I can't even imagine not having our little munchkin. My love for her is indescribable and my love for Rick has grown exponentially. I cherish every second I have with Libby Anne. Snuggling her and kissing her little head and cheeks...ahhhh... the best thing in the world! True bliss!
What she loves:
* snuggles with Mommy and Daddy
* bath time
* Mommy singing to her
* her binky
* grunting - it makes me giggle
* getting her picture taken, especially by Aunt Brook
* kisses on her nose
What she doesn't like so much:
* sleeping without being held at night... but we are working on it
* changing clothes
* when Mommy or Daddy holds her legs or arms still
Daily Life with Libby Anne: Right now, our days revolve around Libby Anne eating. Sometimes she is hungry every hour to hour and a half... other times she will go 3 or 4 hours between feedings. In short, our days are filled with changing diapers, feeding, and napping. She also likes to look around and watch us when we talk to her.
Milestones this month: What isn't a milestone this month? She went from not eating at all, to eating what seems like all the time. She was born at 5 lbs 10 oz, left the hospital at 5 lbs 4 oz, and then at her 2 week appointment was up to 6 lbs 4 oz. We will find out tomorrow how much she weighs now, but I know she is growing and gaining! She started off being attached to all sorts of wires and monitors and now is a strong, healthy baby girl. She amazes me every day!
Here is a comparison of when she was first allowed to put on clothes (7 Days old) and today at one month old:
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Monday, October 24, 2011
Sleep Report
The great: Libby Anne slept on her own in her arm's reach cosleeper (like a small crib that sits next to our bed) all night long! We did not have to hold her like we usually do.
The not-so-great: She was up to eat every two hours. This isn't horrible because she has been hungry as often a every hour, but hopefully we can get her to sleep a little longer between feedings soon.
Baby steps... Her sleeping on her own is a huge victory!
The not-so-great: She was up to eat every two hours. This isn't horrible because she has been hungry as often a every hour, but hopefully we can get her to sleep a little longer between feedings soon.
Baby steps... Her sleeping on her own is a huge victory!
Thank goodness!
Libby Anne is not the best sleeper yet, especially at night. Well, actually, she sleeps great, but only if we hold her. This is quite a challenge at night since it requires sitting up straight all night long.
From my research, it is very common for babies, especially preemies, to need to be held and to feel secure for the first several weeks. However, just because it is "normal" doesn't make it easier to get through long nights of sitting straight up with her.
This afternoon Libby Anne actually slept over 3 hours straight... without me holding her! I propped her up in my boppy pillow all swaddled and snug. And she actually slept! I dozed off after a while of her sleeping, and I was shocked when I saw what time it was upon waking.
I felt that this called for a celebration, so Rick and I went out to dinner for the first time. We went to a local Mexican restaurant since it would be relatively quick. It is one of our favorite places to go, so it was nice to not only get out of the house for a little bit, but have some yummy food that I haven't had in a long time.
Now it is just after midnight and we are heading to bed. I am praying she will have a good night and sleep at least a little on her own. Wish us luck!
From my research, it is very common for babies, especially preemies, to need to be held and to feel secure for the first several weeks. However, just because it is "normal" doesn't make it easier to get through long nights of sitting straight up with her.
This afternoon Libby Anne actually slept over 3 hours straight... without me holding her! I propped her up in my boppy pillow all swaddled and snug. And she actually slept! I dozed off after a while of her sleeping, and I was shocked when I saw what time it was upon waking.
I felt that this called for a celebration, so Rick and I went out to dinner for the first time. We went to a local Mexican restaurant since it would be relatively quick. It is one of our favorite places to go, so it was nice to not only get out of the house for a little bit, but have some yummy food that I haven't had in a long time.
Now it is just after midnight and we are heading to bed. I am praying she will have a good night and sleep at least a little on her own. Wish us luck!
Thursday, October 20, 2011
Trying to figure things out
Libby Anne (and Jacks) and I are surviving during the day while Rick is back at work, although we miss him a lot. But I am still trying to figure things out.
I am not sure how, but every single day around 4pm, I realize the day is almost gone and I have no idea where it went. It takes all I have to shower, eat something myself, and make sure Jacks gets to go outside. I am not sure how I am supposed to fit in cleaning, cooking, laundry, errands, and all those normal things that people do.
My day revolves completely around Libby Anne- feeding her, changing diapers, changing clothes, holding her, talking to her, cuddling her, a nap with her if I am lucky. Before I know it, the day is over. I am definitely not complaining- I love my days with Libby Anne. I just don't know how to fit everything else in as well.
One day, hopefully, I will learn how and figure it all out. But until then, if you come to my house, please excuse the mess, eat before you come because I won't have any food for you, and aim for later in the day if you want me to be showered.
I am not sure how, but every single day around 4pm, I realize the day is almost gone and I have no idea where it went. It takes all I have to shower, eat something myself, and make sure Jacks gets to go outside. I am not sure how I am supposed to fit in cleaning, cooking, laundry, errands, and all those normal things that people do.
My day revolves completely around Libby Anne- feeding her, changing diapers, changing clothes, holding her, talking to her, cuddling her, a nap with her if I am lucky. Before I know it, the day is over. I am definitely not complaining- I love my days with Libby Anne. I just don't know how to fit everything else in as well.
One day, hopefully, I will learn how and figure it all out. But until then, if you come to my house, please excuse the mess, eat before you come because I won't have any food for you, and aim for later in the day if you want me to be showered.
Monday, October 17, 2011
Don't want to miss a second
As we sit here on the evening before Rick returns to work, reality is starting to set in. Tomorrow, Rick will have to leave Libby Anne and me to go to work all day. The thought of him not being here with us makes me want to cry... and I know it is going to be much harder for him than it will be for me.
It was probably bad timing, but we are also trying to work on figuring out what days I will be working and when I will be going back full time. I really wish we could afford for me to stay at home with my precious little girl, but it just isn't an option for us at this time.
The thought of leaving Libby Anne is breaking my heart. I can't even imagine how difficult it is going to be for me. I don't want to miss a second with Libby Anne.
While I am very thankful for Rick's mom helping us take care of Libby Anne in December when I am working part time, and for our wonderful daycare lady once I go back full time, I just don't want to leave her at all. I want to spend every moment with Libby Anne, even if it is during one of our long, sleepless nights. She is so precious and brings me so much happiness and love.
When I think about how much she has changed in the three weeks she has been here, I can't help but think about all that I will miss by being at work. I could have never imagined how difficult it would be to part with her. At this point, I still have a few weeks, but I am struggling already.
My heart is exploding with love for my little Libby Anne. I love when she is snuggled up with me on my chest, squeaking and grunting. I love listening to her sweet little breaths and watching her smile. I love when she scrunches up her little nose and when she kicks around her little froggy legs. I love when she grabs onto my pinky finger with her tiny little fingers and holds on for dear life. And when she looks up at me with those big, innocent eyes and watches me as I sing to her. In short, I love every little thing about my little angel.
Being a mom is the absolute best job in the world.
It was probably bad timing, but we are also trying to work on figuring out what days I will be working and when I will be going back full time. I really wish we could afford for me to stay at home with my precious little girl, but it just isn't an option for us at this time.
The thought of leaving Libby Anne is breaking my heart. I can't even imagine how difficult it is going to be for me. I don't want to miss a second with Libby Anne.
While I am very thankful for Rick's mom helping us take care of Libby Anne in December when I am working part time, and for our wonderful daycare lady once I go back full time, I just don't want to leave her at all. I want to spend every moment with Libby Anne, even if it is during one of our long, sleepless nights. She is so precious and brings me so much happiness and love.
When I think about how much she has changed in the three weeks she has been here, I can't help but think about all that I will miss by being at work. I could have never imagined how difficult it would be to part with her. At this point, I still have a few weeks, but I am struggling already.
My heart is exploding with love for my little Libby Anne. I love when she is snuggled up with me on my chest, squeaking and grunting. I love listening to her sweet little breaths and watching her smile. I love when she scrunches up her little nose and when she kicks around her little froggy legs. I love when she grabs onto my pinky finger with her tiny little fingers and holds on for dear life. And when she looks up at me with those big, innocent eyes and watches me as I sing to her. In short, I love every little thing about my little angel.
Being a mom is the absolute best job in the world.
Friday, October 14, 2011
Our little model
Libby Anne had a photo shoot with my sister Brook the day after she came home. She did so well for all of her pictures. I was very proud of her.
We absolutely LOVE her newborn pictures! Thank you SO much Brook! I could look at them for hours. They make me smile... and often make me tear up too. I can't believe how much she has grown just in the past week and a half. I am so thankful to have these pictures to capture how precious she is.
We absolutely LOVE her newborn pictures! Thank you SO much Brook! I could look at them for hours. They make me smile... and often make me tear up too. I can't believe how much she has grown just in the past week and a half. I am so thankful to have these pictures to capture how precious she is.
Surprise from Rick
I knew Rick had been working on something, but I wasn't sure what it was. Unfortunately, there was a delay in shipping which had Rick pretty frustrated. He was very anxious for his surprise to arrive.
When the UPS truck pulled up, Rick was beyond excited... as was I! I couldn't wait to see what my surprise was.
Libby Anne and I will be quite fashionable when we walk around with this awesome diaper bag!
Rick ordered us a Petunia Pickle Bottom diaper bag! How thoughtful and sweet of him. We haven't ventured out since it arrived, but I can't wait to use it.
Thank you so much Rick!
When the UPS truck pulled up, Rick was beyond excited... as was I! I couldn't wait to see what my surprise was.
Libby Anne and I will be quite fashionable when we walk around with this awesome diaper bag!
Rick ordered us a Petunia Pickle Bottom diaper bag! How thoughtful and sweet of him. We haven't ventured out since it arrived, but I can't wait to use it.
Thank you so much Rick!
Monday, October 10, 2011
2 week appointment
We had a 2 week appointment for Libby Anne today. How is she already 2 weeks old?!?!
Libby Anne is up to 6 lbs 4 oz- she gained 8.5 oz since our appointment on Wednesday! Ideally, they like to see premies gain .5 to 1 oz a day, but Libby Anne is gaining close to 1.8oz a day since she was released from the hospital. The pediatrician indicated that Libby Anne "probably is an over-eater." We have been so concerned about her gaining weight and making sure she ate enough. I guess we had nothing to worry about.
The pediatrician said Libby Anne looked great and he doesn't have any concerns. She goes back in 2 weeks for her one month appointment.
Since I haven't had much time to update my blog about our precious little girl, I thought I would give a few highlights of life with Libby Anne the past two weeks. I will update more when I can, including pictures.
* Libby Anne is quite the little model. She had a newborn shoot with my sister Brook. The pictures are AMAZING and so incredibly adorable. I will post some soon!
* Big Brother Jacks and little Libby Anne get along wonderfully. Jacks is very concerned about Libby Anne and checks on her whenever she makes a noise or moves around.
* Libby Anne loves taking baths. She is a perfect little angel in the water and only cries when you take her out.
* Unfortunately Libby Anne has her days and nights confused. She sleeps very well throughout the day, but not so much at night. We are working on it... and in the meantime, we are trying to take at least one nap with her during the day.
* Libby Anne's umbilical cord fell off last night so now we can see her adorable little belly button.
* She loves music, especially when I sing to her.
* None of Libby Anne's clothes fit her yet, even the newborn stuff. She is sporting the rolled up sleeves, saggy pants, and socks and hats that fall off of her. Something tells me, since she is a little "over-eater," it won't be long before she fits into her clothes.
* Daddy and Mommy could hold Libby Anne all day and all night. She is so sweet and cuddly.
* Having her little hand grip on my little finger is an amazing feeling. I hope she holds my hand forever.
* Libby Anne loves to kick her feet around and spread her little toes apart. Her feet are so perfect (and this is saying a lot since I hate feet!)
* When Libby Anne smiles, I feel like the world stops so I can just soak her in. She is so precious. I could stare at her all day. She makes me so overwhelmed with happiness and joy.
* Seeing Rick with Libby Anne is breathtaking. It makes me love Rick more and more each day. He is an amazing Daddy to our little girl already!
* Mommy and Daddy love Libby Anne SO much and can't imagine life without her. She is our little angel.
Libby Anne is up to 6 lbs 4 oz- she gained 8.5 oz since our appointment on Wednesday! Ideally, they like to see premies gain .5 to 1 oz a day, but Libby Anne is gaining close to 1.8oz a day since she was released from the hospital. The pediatrician indicated that Libby Anne "probably is an over-eater." We have been so concerned about her gaining weight and making sure she ate enough. I guess we had nothing to worry about.
The pediatrician said Libby Anne looked great and he doesn't have any concerns. She goes back in 2 weeks for her one month appointment.
Since I haven't had much time to update my blog about our precious little girl, I thought I would give a few highlights of life with Libby Anne the past two weeks. I will update more when I can, including pictures.
* Libby Anne is quite the little model. She had a newborn shoot with my sister Brook. The pictures are AMAZING and so incredibly adorable. I will post some soon!
* Big Brother Jacks and little Libby Anne get along wonderfully. Jacks is very concerned about Libby Anne and checks on her whenever she makes a noise or moves around.
* Libby Anne loves taking baths. She is a perfect little angel in the water and only cries when you take her out.
* Unfortunately Libby Anne has her days and nights confused. She sleeps very well throughout the day, but not so much at night. We are working on it... and in the meantime, we are trying to take at least one nap with her during the day.
* Libby Anne's umbilical cord fell off last night so now we can see her adorable little belly button.
* She loves music, especially when I sing to her.
* None of Libby Anne's clothes fit her yet, even the newborn stuff. She is sporting the rolled up sleeves, saggy pants, and socks and hats that fall off of her. Something tells me, since she is a little "over-eater," it won't be long before she fits into her clothes.
* Daddy and Mommy could hold Libby Anne all day and all night. She is so sweet and cuddly.
* Having her little hand grip on my little finger is an amazing feeling. I hope she holds my hand forever.
* Libby Anne loves to kick her feet around and spread her little toes apart. Her feet are so perfect (and this is saying a lot since I hate feet!)
* When Libby Anne smiles, I feel like the world stops so I can just soak her in. She is so precious. I could stare at her all day. She makes me so overwhelmed with happiness and joy.
* Seeing Rick with Libby Anne is breathtaking. It makes me love Rick more and more each day. He is an amazing Daddy to our little girl already!
* Mommy and Daddy love Libby Anne SO much and can't imagine life without her. She is our little angel.
Thursday, October 6, 2011
Libby Anne's Birth Story
When I woke up the morning of Sunday September 25, at 35 weeks 3 days pregnant, I had no idea what was in store for me that day or how my life was about to change.
Rick and I woke up and got ready for church. It was a typical Sunday morning for us. We went to Panera Bread for breakfast. I remember saying how I wasn't ready for our little girl to become an "outside baby" yet and I couldn't believe we were only a few weeks away from having her. Ironic, huh?
We headed to church and at about 10:55am I went to the bathroom. When I stood up, I noticed that it looked like I had really concentrated urine... or maybe a tiny bit of blood in my urine. I tried not to think about it. At 11:20am, I had to go to the bathroom again. At this point in my pregnancy, frequent urination was definitely one of my symptoms. I again noticed a little bit of what now I realized was blood. It was a very small amount, but it made me nervous. I called my doctor's office and left a message with the answering service.
I received a return call from Dr. Culver. He assured me that it was nothing to be concerned about and to just let them know if it got worse. So I headed back into church feeling a little relieved.
Some very generous and thoughtful people at church threw us a shower to celebrate Baby D immediately following church that day. I was feeling a little odd, but I wasn't in pain and was not having any signs of labor. I was, however, pretty nervous that maybe more was going on than I knew. I am not sure why... but I was scared and kept thinking that I was not ready for Baby D to come yet.
I went to the bathroom yet again at 12:15pm. When I stood up, I felt a small amount a fluid. I thought, certainly if my water broke, I would know... and it would be a significant amount of fluid. I asked two of my friends at church who are mothers and they both assured me that I would definitely know if my water broke and that I had plenty of time because Baby D was still really high.
We continued on with the wonderful shower. I was a little distracted with thoughts of Baby D arriving early, but tried to convince myself that nothing was going on, because after all, I didn't have any signs of labor at this point. I was just being a silly, worrisome pregnant lady. My friends suggested that I just go home and rest for a while. We loaded the car and headed home at about 2:10pm.
The drive home is about 30 minutes. About 10 minutes into the drive, I noticed some mild pain in my lower back. When I mentioned it to Rick, he assured me that nothing was happening and I was probably just reading into every little thing because I was concerned about things. About 10 minutes later, the pain had wrapped around from my back to my lower stomach. The pain was getting stronger. Rick's car was low on gas so I recommended he go ahead and fill his tank up on the way home, just in case. I also told Rick that we needed to pack our hospital bag when we got home. At this point, I am pretty sure Rick still thought I was over-reacting.
We got home at 2:40pm. I went inside straight to the bathroom while Rick and Alli unloaded the car. At this point, I noticed a little blood again as well as a clear stretchy substance. The pain was getting worse and was to the point of being pretty intense. I yelled for Rick and told him that something was happening. I called Dr. Culver again at 2:47pm... and waited for a call back.
I asked Rick to start packing a bag for us. He was asking me what to put in it, but I was in so much pain I was having a hard time telling him, much less helping him. Dr. Culver called back at 3:02pm. When I explained what was going on, he said that I needed to come straight to Labor and Delivery to see him. I was curled up in pain, I couldn't walk around, and I was totally freaking out at this point.
As we were getting ready to walk out the door, I got sick and threw up a few times. I remember reading that often women get sick during labor, and I started to freak out even more. This was it, and I was scared.
Rick helped me to the car. Alli was in the front seat and I was in the back. No matter how I sat, I couldn't get comfortable. On the way back into town, I tried to get Alli to help me time contractions with an application on my phone, but the pain never seemed to go away. The intense pain when I couldn't breath or focus at all lasted 2 to 4 minutes. I was in tears and telling Rick that I couldn't do this and I wasn't ready. I am pretty sure I scared Alli pretty badly with my crying in pain.
It was raining hard and traffic was moving slowly. Rick was trying to go as fast as he could, but other drivers wouldn't get out of the way. We left home at about 3:35pm and by 3:50pm I became very concerned that Baby D was going to come and we weren't going to make it to the hospital. My contractions were about 1 to 2 minutes apart from what we could tell at this point.
Rick decided to call 911. We had an ambulance meet us in a shopping center parking lot. We pulled into the parking lot and waited for what seemed like forever. Rick got into the back seat with me and tried to console me, but there wasn't much he could do. The pain was unbearable and nothing was helping. About 4 or 5 minutes had passed and Rick was just about to call 911 back when he heard sirens outside headed our way.
The ambulance pulled up and loaded me in the back. Rick and Alli followed closely behind. The ambulance was obviously able to get through traffic better and faster than Rick was able to. In the ambulance, the pain continued to be extremely intense and seemed to never subside. I kept asking the two females in the ambulance to make sure she wasn't coming. I was crying and sweating... and very scared.
We pulled up to the hospital at about 4:40pm. They rushed me in, went straight to the elevator, and headed up to labor and delivery. When they wheeled me into the room, there were several nurses but Rick wasn't there yet. At some point they must of checked me, but I don't remember because I was in so much pain. Next thing I knew, Dr. Culver walked into the room with Rick right behind him.
Dr. Culver said "It looks like it is time to have a baby!" I was shocked. What happened to the hours and hours of labor? and contractions that gradually got worse? And getting checked over and over again to see if you are dilated any more?
I looked to Rick, who was standing on my left, and started crying. I told him I wasn't ready and I couldn't do this. He kept reassuring me that I could do this and he was right there with me. A nurse named Lietzle was to my right, telling me that I could do this and it was time.
I asked Dr. Culver for medicine for the pain a couple different times, but he said there wasn't time. That was NOT my plan! I wanted an epidural as soon as they would give it to me. Apparently when I arrived at the hospital, I was already 10 cm dilated and at station +2. NO wonder I was in such horrible pain!
Rick grabbed my left leg and Lietzle grabbed my right. Push one felt like nothing was happening. Push two and three I could feel her head come down. Rick said he could see her little head and she had hair. Rick was so wonderful- he kept telling me that I could do it and he was so proud of me. Push four and she was almost here! My sister Brook came running in the door at 5:14pm, a short 30 minutes after I arrived at the hospital.
And then push five... At 5:17pm, my precious Elizabeth Anne was born. Her sweet little cry was the best sound in the world!
The doctor placed Libby Anne on my stomach. I moved my shirt, which I never had time to change out of, and felt her sweet tiny body against mine. What a miracle!
She was perfect- the most beautiful little person I have ever seen. Rick and I were both in tears- so happy and over joyed. Words cannot even describe the love I felt as soon as I saw my little Libby Anne.
At 5:17pm, my life changed forever.
The nurses took Libby Anne to clean her off and make sure she was ok. She weighed 5 lbs 10 oz. We did not find out for a few days, but she was 19 1/2 inches long. They bundled her all up and placed her back on my chest.
About the same time, the doctor calmly indicated that he was having some trouble getting my bleeding to stop. He started pressing on my stomach and pushing on things. It was extremely painful. After a couple minutes, the nurses took Libby Anne from us. They did not tell us, but they were concerned because her breathing was labored.
Dr Culver then asked everyone to leave the room except Rick and nurse Lietzle. I was really starting to get worried and scared, but Rick was by my side, holding my hand and telling me that everything would be ok. Lietzle gave me a shot in each leg and then started an IV with pitocin to try to help stop the bleeding. Dr Culver continued pushing on me and trying to get the bleeding to stop. It hurt as much, if not more, as having Libby Anne. I was scared. I could tell the doctor and the nurse were getting concerned, but Rick just kept talking to me and trying to keep me calm.
Finally Dr Culver was able to get my bleeding under control. My memory is a little foggy at this point; I think whatever medicine they gave me made me dazed. Rick was able to go see Libby Anne, but I had to stay in the room. He said her little chest was pumping up and down because she was breathing so hard.
Rick and I were in total disbelief that Libby Anne had arrived... and so quickly. Rick was so excited and kept telling me how proud he was of me and how perfect our little angel is.
Around 8pm, two nurses came to try to move us from labor and deliver to a room. When I got up, I almost passed out from losing so much blood. My face went completely white and they had to hold me up to keep me from falling. After putting ice on my neck and a cool cloth on my face for about 15 minutes, I was still feeling weak and light headed. They decided to carefully move me back to the bed to rest some more.
At about 9:30pm, the nurses tried to move me again. I was feeling a little better and was able to move from the bed to a wheel chair. I was so excited because they promised to take me by the nursery to see Libby Anne before taking us to our room.
Libby Anne was sound asleep. Her little chest was working so hard to breath, but her oxygen levels were high without any assistance from an oxygen tent. We looked at Libby Anne in absolute awe. How had we been so blessed to be given such a perfect gift?
I counted her little fingers and toes. They are so long and skinny. She likes to pull her little knees up high and let them fall out to the side so she looks like a little frog. Every once in a while she would kick a leg straight out and up into the air as she stretches her little toes apart. It is so precious.
I wasn't able to hold her, which broke my heart. She had several wires attached to her to monitor her oxygen level, heart rate and breathing rate. She also had an IV of fluids and antibiotics. Rick and I kept telling her how much we love her.
It was a long night of little sleep for Rick and I. We were so excited but also worried about Libby Anne. It was difficult to not be able to hold her or be with her.
Over the next 8 days, Libby Anne remained in the Special Care Unit (NICU). She is a little fighter. They determined that she did not have an infection of any kind, so they stopped the IV antibiotics after 48 hours. Her breathing had improved by the next morning. Despite them warning us that she had a 99% chance of getting jaundice and needing light therapy, she was able to control her biliruben levels on her own and never had to go under the lights. She gradually was able to eat more and started gaining weight before we were allowed to take her home.
After I was discharged on Tuesday, Rick and I spent every second we could by her side. We got to the hospital by 8:30am and stayed until 10 or 11pm. The hour commute each way and the long hours in the nursery were very hard on us, emotionally and physically, but we couldn't stand the thought of not being with her every opportunity we could.
On Monday October 3, we brought Libby Anne home with us. She is absolutely perfect and I cannot imagine my life without her now. Rick has been amazing and wonderfully supportive. He has helped out so much, for which I am extremely grateful.
Seeing Rick with Libby Anne melts my heart. He is such an amazing father and his love for her is overwhelming. Seeing him with Libby Anne makes me love him even more.
And so there the story is, of the day my life went from wonderful to absolutely amazing and perfect. Elizabeth Anne might have been 4 1/2 weeks early, but she is my perfect little angel and I am so blessed to be her Mommy.
Rick and I woke up and got ready for church. It was a typical Sunday morning for us. We went to Panera Bread for breakfast. I remember saying how I wasn't ready for our little girl to become an "outside baby" yet and I couldn't believe we were only a few weeks away from having her. Ironic, huh?
We headed to church and at about 10:55am I went to the bathroom. When I stood up, I noticed that it looked like I had really concentrated urine... or maybe a tiny bit of blood in my urine. I tried not to think about it. At 11:20am, I had to go to the bathroom again. At this point in my pregnancy, frequent urination was definitely one of my symptoms. I again noticed a little bit of what now I realized was blood. It was a very small amount, but it made me nervous. I called my doctor's office and left a message with the answering service.
I received a return call from Dr. Culver. He assured me that it was nothing to be concerned about and to just let them know if it got worse. So I headed back into church feeling a little relieved.
Some very generous and thoughtful people at church threw us a shower to celebrate Baby D immediately following church that day. I was feeling a little odd, but I wasn't in pain and was not having any signs of labor. I was, however, pretty nervous that maybe more was going on than I knew. I am not sure why... but I was scared and kept thinking that I was not ready for Baby D to come yet.
I went to the bathroom yet again at 12:15pm. When I stood up, I felt a small amount a fluid. I thought, certainly if my water broke, I would know... and it would be a significant amount of fluid. I asked two of my friends at church who are mothers and they both assured me that I would definitely know if my water broke and that I had plenty of time because Baby D was still really high.
We continued on with the wonderful shower. I was a little distracted with thoughts of Baby D arriving early, but tried to convince myself that nothing was going on, because after all, I didn't have any signs of labor at this point. I was just being a silly, worrisome pregnant lady. My friends suggested that I just go home and rest for a while. We loaded the car and headed home at about 2:10pm.
The drive home is about 30 minutes. About 10 minutes into the drive, I noticed some mild pain in my lower back. When I mentioned it to Rick, he assured me that nothing was happening and I was probably just reading into every little thing because I was concerned about things. About 10 minutes later, the pain had wrapped around from my back to my lower stomach. The pain was getting stronger. Rick's car was low on gas so I recommended he go ahead and fill his tank up on the way home, just in case. I also told Rick that we needed to pack our hospital bag when we got home. At this point, I am pretty sure Rick still thought I was over-reacting.
We got home at 2:40pm. I went inside straight to the bathroom while Rick and Alli unloaded the car. At this point, I noticed a little blood again as well as a clear stretchy substance. The pain was getting worse and was to the point of being pretty intense. I yelled for Rick and told him that something was happening. I called Dr. Culver again at 2:47pm... and waited for a call back.
I asked Rick to start packing a bag for us. He was asking me what to put in it, but I was in so much pain I was having a hard time telling him, much less helping him. Dr. Culver called back at 3:02pm. When I explained what was going on, he said that I needed to come straight to Labor and Delivery to see him. I was curled up in pain, I couldn't walk around, and I was totally freaking out at this point.
As we were getting ready to walk out the door, I got sick and threw up a few times. I remember reading that often women get sick during labor, and I started to freak out even more. This was it, and I was scared.
Rick helped me to the car. Alli was in the front seat and I was in the back. No matter how I sat, I couldn't get comfortable. On the way back into town, I tried to get Alli to help me time contractions with an application on my phone, but the pain never seemed to go away. The intense pain when I couldn't breath or focus at all lasted 2 to 4 minutes. I was in tears and telling Rick that I couldn't do this and I wasn't ready. I am pretty sure I scared Alli pretty badly with my crying in pain.
It was raining hard and traffic was moving slowly. Rick was trying to go as fast as he could, but other drivers wouldn't get out of the way. We left home at about 3:35pm and by 3:50pm I became very concerned that Baby D was going to come and we weren't going to make it to the hospital. My contractions were about 1 to 2 minutes apart from what we could tell at this point.
Rick decided to call 911. We had an ambulance meet us in a shopping center parking lot. We pulled into the parking lot and waited for what seemed like forever. Rick got into the back seat with me and tried to console me, but there wasn't much he could do. The pain was unbearable and nothing was helping. About 4 or 5 minutes had passed and Rick was just about to call 911 back when he heard sirens outside headed our way.
The ambulance pulled up and loaded me in the back. Rick and Alli followed closely behind. The ambulance was obviously able to get through traffic better and faster than Rick was able to. In the ambulance, the pain continued to be extremely intense and seemed to never subside. I kept asking the two females in the ambulance to make sure she wasn't coming. I was crying and sweating... and very scared.
We pulled up to the hospital at about 4:40pm. They rushed me in, went straight to the elevator, and headed up to labor and delivery. When they wheeled me into the room, there were several nurses but Rick wasn't there yet. At some point they must of checked me, but I don't remember because I was in so much pain. Next thing I knew, Dr. Culver walked into the room with Rick right behind him.
Dr. Culver said "It looks like it is time to have a baby!" I was shocked. What happened to the hours and hours of labor? and contractions that gradually got worse? And getting checked over and over again to see if you are dilated any more?
I looked to Rick, who was standing on my left, and started crying. I told him I wasn't ready and I couldn't do this. He kept reassuring me that I could do this and he was right there with me. A nurse named Lietzle was to my right, telling me that I could do this and it was time.
I asked Dr. Culver for medicine for the pain a couple different times, but he said there wasn't time. That was NOT my plan! I wanted an epidural as soon as they would give it to me. Apparently when I arrived at the hospital, I was already 10 cm dilated and at station +2. NO wonder I was in such horrible pain!
Rick grabbed my left leg and Lietzle grabbed my right. Push one felt like nothing was happening. Push two and three I could feel her head come down. Rick said he could see her little head and she had hair. Rick was so wonderful- he kept telling me that I could do it and he was so proud of me. Push four and she was almost here! My sister Brook came running in the door at 5:14pm, a short 30 minutes after I arrived at the hospital.
And then push five... At 5:17pm, my precious Elizabeth Anne was born. Her sweet little cry was the best sound in the world!
The doctor placed Libby Anne on my stomach. I moved my shirt, which I never had time to change out of, and felt her sweet tiny body against mine. What a miracle!
She was perfect- the most beautiful little person I have ever seen. Rick and I were both in tears- so happy and over joyed. Words cannot even describe the love I felt as soon as I saw my little Libby Anne.
At 5:17pm, my life changed forever.
The nurses took Libby Anne to clean her off and make sure she was ok. She weighed 5 lbs 10 oz. We did not find out for a few days, but she was 19 1/2 inches long. They bundled her all up and placed her back on my chest.
About the same time, the doctor calmly indicated that he was having some trouble getting my bleeding to stop. He started pressing on my stomach and pushing on things. It was extremely painful. After a couple minutes, the nurses took Libby Anne from us. They did not tell us, but they were concerned because her breathing was labored.
Dr Culver then asked everyone to leave the room except Rick and nurse Lietzle. I was really starting to get worried and scared, but Rick was by my side, holding my hand and telling me that everything would be ok. Lietzle gave me a shot in each leg and then started an IV with pitocin to try to help stop the bleeding. Dr Culver continued pushing on me and trying to get the bleeding to stop. It hurt as much, if not more, as having Libby Anne. I was scared. I could tell the doctor and the nurse were getting concerned, but Rick just kept talking to me and trying to keep me calm.
Finally Dr Culver was able to get my bleeding under control. My memory is a little foggy at this point; I think whatever medicine they gave me made me dazed. Rick was able to go see Libby Anne, but I had to stay in the room. He said her little chest was pumping up and down because she was breathing so hard.
Rick and I were in total disbelief that Libby Anne had arrived... and so quickly. Rick was so excited and kept telling me how proud he was of me and how perfect our little angel is.
Around 8pm, two nurses came to try to move us from labor and deliver to a room. When I got up, I almost passed out from losing so much blood. My face went completely white and they had to hold me up to keep me from falling. After putting ice on my neck and a cool cloth on my face for about 15 minutes, I was still feeling weak and light headed. They decided to carefully move me back to the bed to rest some more.
At about 9:30pm, the nurses tried to move me again. I was feeling a little better and was able to move from the bed to a wheel chair. I was so excited because they promised to take me by the nursery to see Libby Anne before taking us to our room.
Libby Anne was sound asleep. Her little chest was working so hard to breath, but her oxygen levels were high without any assistance from an oxygen tent. We looked at Libby Anne in absolute awe. How had we been so blessed to be given such a perfect gift?
I counted her little fingers and toes. They are so long and skinny. She likes to pull her little knees up high and let them fall out to the side so she looks like a little frog. Every once in a while she would kick a leg straight out and up into the air as she stretches her little toes apart. It is so precious.
I wasn't able to hold her, which broke my heart. She had several wires attached to her to monitor her oxygen level, heart rate and breathing rate. She also had an IV of fluids and antibiotics. Rick and I kept telling her how much we love her.
It was a long night of little sleep for Rick and I. We were so excited but also worried about Libby Anne. It was difficult to not be able to hold her or be with her.
Over the next 8 days, Libby Anne remained in the Special Care Unit (NICU). She is a little fighter. They determined that she did not have an infection of any kind, so they stopped the IV antibiotics after 48 hours. Her breathing had improved by the next morning. Despite them warning us that she had a 99% chance of getting jaundice and needing light therapy, she was able to control her biliruben levels on her own and never had to go under the lights. She gradually was able to eat more and started gaining weight before we were allowed to take her home.
After I was discharged on Tuesday, Rick and I spent every second we could by her side. We got to the hospital by 8:30am and stayed until 10 or 11pm. The hour commute each way and the long hours in the nursery were very hard on us, emotionally and physically, but we couldn't stand the thought of not being with her every opportunity we could.
On Monday October 3, we brought Libby Anne home with us. She is absolutely perfect and I cannot imagine my life without her now. Rick has been amazing and wonderfully supportive. He has helped out so much, for which I am extremely grateful.
Seeing Rick with Libby Anne melts my heart. He is such an amazing father and his love for her is overwhelming. Seeing him with Libby Anne makes me love him even more.
And so there the story is, of the day my life went from wonderful to absolutely amazing and perfect. Elizabeth Anne might have been 4 1/2 weeks early, but she is my perfect little angel and I am so blessed to be her Mommy.
Sunday, October 2, 2011
She is here!
Elizabeth Anne ("Libby Anne") arrived on Sunday September 25 at 5:17 pm. She weighed 5 lbs 10 oz and was 19 1/2 inches long.
Libby Anne has been in the Special Care Unit since she arrived. She is getting stronger and healthier every day. We are hoping to take her home tomorrow.
Lots more to come once we get our precious little angel home!
Libby Anne has been in the Special Care Unit since she arrived. She is getting stronger and healthier every day. We are hoping to take her home tomorrow.
Lots more to come once we get our precious little angel home!
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