Kelly Kids

16 week pic...a little late

2012-02-17T18:05:00.001-08:00

Appointment with the specialist is scheduled for Feb. 29! Can't wait to see our little GIRL again. :)

16 weeks and 16 months

2012-02-11T19:30:00.000-08:00

I am 16 weeks into this new pregnancy. I had an appt. this past week and all seems OK so far. Heartrate was in the 140's. We talked about future appointments and the appointment with the MFM doc. I have an ultrasound set for this Tuesday to check my cervical length and he said they'll take a peak and see if we can see 4 chambers of the heart...and maybe see the sex too :)

How far along?: 16 weeks
How big is baby?: no clue and too lazy to look it up
Weight Gain?: 10ish pounds.
Maternity Clothes?: Pants and some tops
Sleep?: I've had insomnia and hate it! Just toss and turn.
Best moment this week?: Amelia NOT getting chicken pox!
Food Cravings?: Not really craving anything.
Gender?: I had one pregnancy dream and I had a boy in it..he was the size of a six month old and was wearing black glasses. In the beginning of the pregnancy, all I could think about was having another girl...now all I think about is having a boy...we'll see!
Stretch Marks: None
Movement?: maybe little things, but nothing definite. Wondering if the placenta is anterior again.
What I miss?: Having energy and getting a break
Belly Button?: Still in
Labor Signs?: none
What I'm looking forward to?: Finding out the health of this baby
Nursery progress: There is no nursery here in our small apartment! The baby will be in with us :)
Main symptoms this week: Fatigue, blah feeling, food doesn't taste right, emotional, round ligament pain

I wanted to do a little update of Amelia too. She had a check-up this past week. Her height, weight and head circumference all are in the 30-40th percentile. The doctor said she is very proportional. For some reason she seems bigger than that to me, but she is just below the average I guess. And the biggest news, today is day 1 of weaning her. It's surprising how sad I have been today about this. It's a stage coming to a close, I will miss my time with her. Thankfully she still likes to rock and cuddle, but again, this is a time I will never get back with her. Pat said, well you'll be nursing another baby in July...yeah, that's true, but not Amelia. My milk had pretty much dried it and it was really painful. The doctor said it would probably take 4 days of cold turkey for her at her age. Today she actually did rather well. I think thought that I may kinda have cramps from not nursing, not really sure. Never thought I would've made it 6 months...we had a such a rough start and the first few months were bad. We made it almost 17 months though! God answered a lot of prayers and we persevered. It was worth all of the struggles!

Just a quick update

2012-02-02T13:50:00.001-08:00

14 1/2 weeks...this was last night. I have gained 10 pounds already! I have an appt. a week from today, yay!

12 week survey

2012-01-16T10:02:00.001-08:00

I guess we'll stick with this blog for now for baby updates :)

How far along?: 12 weeks
How big is baby?: maybe 2 inches long?
Weight Gain?: Not sure if I weighed 120 or 125 to start. But I weighed 129 last week. So either 4 or 9 pounds.
Maternity Clothes?: Pants for sure now! They are so much more comfortable.
Sleep?: Depends on how Amelia does and how much I drank before bed.
Best moment this week?: Taking Amelia to play in the park. The weather here has been pretty mild for January.
Food Cravings?: Sugary things. Food just sounds blah though in general.
Gender?: No clue. I want both a boy and a girl :) I will be thrilled with either. It would be fun for Amelia to have a sister close in age, and it would be neat to experience raising a boy (especially since we have to miss out on Liam.)
Stretch Marks: None
Movement?: none
What I miss?: Not having a sick feeling most of the day.
Belly Button?: Still in
Labor Signs?: none
What I'm looking forward to?: Finding out the gender and seeing if this babe is healthy and heart healthy. Hoping we see specialist in 6 weeks.
Nursery progress: There is no nursery here in our small apartment! The baby will be in with us :)
Main symptoms this week: Fatigue, nausea, bloating... Hoping to ween Amelia soon. I think my milk supply completely tanked, so she is basically nursing for comfort. She finally likes cow's milk and drinks it a few times a day.

New Year, New Blog

2012-01-10T08:37:00.000-08:00

Hello!

We kind-of started a new blog because of so many new things happening. First, we live in Colorado now. Second, we are expecting another little baby in July. Anyways, there are so many updates and things to talk about. The other blog is private for now, but I will post a link to it when it goes public.

I'm back...kinda :)

2011-06-06T11:50:00.001-07:00

I've been busy and haven't had an interest in keeping up with my blog lately. When Amelia turns 9 months, I'll do a post and let you know how she's doing. Here's a recent picture of her though. I love this girl sooooo much. Seriously. There are no words!
Sportin her 2 bottom teeth. This picture captures how silly this girl is. She does a fake little chuckle like half the day now too.

quick update

2011-04-07T12:56:00.000-07:00

Hi guys!

Amelia had her 6 month check-up yesterday. She is now weighing 18 lbs and 15 ounces...with a diaper on. She measured at 26ish inches. It was a good appointment. Doctor said she is healthy and seems to be right where she should be for everything. We asked her about her head being kinda flat. Basically it's not a big deal, it's only a cosmetic thing. She said her's is in the mild-moderate category and that her soft spots are still a good size, which means her head is still taking shape. We just need to keep her off it as much as possible. She did pretty good with her shots. No fevers or anything.

These last few weeks she keeps doing new things. It is so exciting and fun. She sits pretty good and just today she waved bye-bye. My mom was holding her and I was walking away, and we said "wave bye-bye to momma." She did! I called Patrick right away ;). We've been noticing how she checks out little things on everything. She will explore her toys and she even notices things on the wall when we're walking with her. She likes to touch light switches and our thermostat. She can pick up small objects with her thumb and index finger on her left hand mostly (pincer grasp I think??). She still loves kicking her legs and folding her hands together. She loves for us to hold her, walk around and show her new things. She also can say baba and mama now!! She prefers saying baba mostly though. Still waiting for her to say dada. She loves her jumperoo so much that she gave herself a blister on her pinky toe :(

Just a little check-in! She will be 7 months in 2 weeks, can't believe it!

Who's there? and introducing....

2011-04-01T11:02:00.000-07:00

Hiya. Just was curious as to who reads my blog. Please leave me a comment and let me know who you are and let me know if you have a blog that I should follow! Thanks :)

And I want to introduce to you my newest nephew Adam David. He weighed 7 lbs. 1 oz. and was 20 1/2 inches long. He ended up getting RSV shortly after being born and was hospitalized for it. Thankfully he is getting better and home now. Can't wait to hold him again! Congrats to my brother Nathan and my sis Emileigh oh, and big sister Nataleigh.

1/2 a year already?!

2011-03-31T08:33:00.000-07:00

Amelia turned 6 months old on March 21st. I can't believe it! She's been sick, again, so I was behind on taking her pictures.

Weight: over 18 pounds
Height: maybe 26 1/2 is my guess?

Eats: The past few weeks we started introducing some solid foods. She has tried rice cereal, oat cereal, bananas, avocado and sweet potatoes. I plan on making my own baby food. I will just steam the food and use my mini food processor. I bought ice cube trays and will freeze the food for later use. This might take some work, but hopefully I can find some time to do this. I think we can save alot of money this way, and the food will be better and more fresh for her.

Sleep: Terrible. She has been sick twice this past month!

Milestones: She can sit! I'm kinda in a hurry, so I'm not going to ramble on here.

Loves: Lots of things :) Not being sick :)...eating, babbling, playing with her feet.

Dislikes: Getting her face cleaned off...getting her nose suctioned and wiped. Being sick :(

Clothes: She is pretty much in 6-9 for everything now. Her thighs and behind are so chunky now, that she has to wear alot of 12 months pants. Even some of her 6-9 months sleepers are snug around her thighs and waist. She still wears a size 1 shoe though!

Sorry this was so brief. I thought I needed to put at least something on here instead of skipping by 6 months completely. Just been really busy lately! My main goal was filling out her baby book.

Day 8

2011-03-25T11:33:00.000-07:00

A Place you've traveled to....

I really haven't been to too many places. I would love to go on a mission trip, first and foremost. And, I would love to go somewhere tropical, to escape this cold climate.

I have been out west three times. I have visited California twice. I have been to Las Vegas twice. I have visited the Hoover Dam twice as well. Florida, DC, Chicago, Texas, Tennessee...and only out of country to Canada.
But the one place that I think everyone needs to visit at least once in their lives is the Grand Canyon. There are no words!!!! God created a masterpiece. You literally just stand there in awe!

Day 7

2011-03-07T08:29:00.000-08:00

Day 7---Favorite Movies

I am only going to put one...because this movie I absolutely LOVE!!! The first time I watched it, I was going to Bible School and me and my roommates took out a few hours of a few days, and watched it. I fell in love :) BUT...I only like the A & E Version.

PRIDE AND PREJUDICE

Day 6 of challenge

2011-03-07T08:21:00.000-08:00

Day 6-- A picture of something that makes you happy.

My daughter! Enough said!

Day 5 of 30 day

2011-03-04T09:53:00.000-08:00

I've been a little behind on doing this challenge...eeekk...already?!

Day 5: Your Siblings

I am the "middle" child and grew up the only girl. I have an older brother, 3ish years olders named Jesse and a younger brother, 5ish years younger named Nathan.

Jesse is married to Marideth and has a son named Samuel. Jesse and Marideth have law degrees and work at a company doing legal research.

Nathan is married to Emileigh and has a daughter named Nataleigh and a baby boy due any day now! Nate is a nurse in a step-down unit at his local hospital. His wife Emileigh is an X-Ray Tech (mostly on call now).

I love my brothers and consider them best friends now. It wasn't always this way, they have been known to gang-up on me, tease me, and do the normal brotherly things. We still will have our minor disagreements, but there is that family bond that can not be broken! I also love their wives too!

And, I now have a "sister". Anne has been apart of our family since about 2003. She was put in the foster system in high school, where my brother Nathan became a friend to her. She stayed with my parents for the summer after her senior year, because her foster family moved out of town. She then went to school at MSU, and I tried to look after her while she was away (I lived in the same town as MSU). We have become good friends over these past years too. She is married to Chris and has a son named Graydon. Anne works for an insurance company and Chris works at the local hospital, while he finishes up his Master's degree in Social Work.

Last, but not least, I have to talk about my husband's siblings, because they are now mine too :) I love them as well!

Patrick's sister Chrissy is about 5 1/2 years older than him. She is married to Aron and has 3 children, Ethan, Noah and Jade. Chrissy is a super hard worker! She works from home full-time and Aron is an engineer full-time, and farms. They are very kind and giving people.

Patrick also has an older brother named Mike. He is engaged to Amanda. Mike works for my Uncle Bob's energy company. Amanda is going to school for special education and works 2 jobs I believe! We are so excited for the 2 of them!

I forgot to talk about my in-laws on yesterday's post. I will do a special add-on one for them later!!

Day 4 of 30 day

2011-03-03T11:02:00.000-08:00

Day 4: Your Parents

I love my parents! I live in the same town as they do, and work for their business, so I see them almost everyday.

A little about my Dad: He is the oldest of 3 boys, raised mostly by a single mother. He is the hardest working man I have ever met! He rarely misses a day of work. I can remember growing up and him making sure we were hard workers too (either doing yard work, or just finding a job of our own.) He is a strong Christian and a good example of that (I can also remember him getting up very early to read his bible.) He is now my "boss" at work :)! The more I've gotten to know him since being an adult and on my own, the more I can see how similar and alike we are in different areas of our lives.

A little about my Mom: She is the oldest of 6, born in Germany and moved every 1-2 years growing up because my grandpa (her dad) was in the Air Force. She too is a very hard worker. She rarely sits to relax! She is either "waiting" on whoever is around (getting food for them, cleaning-up), exercising, socializing with friends, working at our business, babysitting a grandchild, or doing a bible study. She likes to plan out family trips and events. She truly loves family! I consider her one of my best friends!

Here is their wedding picture from March 10, 1973. They were only 18!! They will be celebrating 38 years of marriage next week!!! WOW!!!

Day 3 of challenge

2011-02-27T15:14:00.001-08:00

Hi friends! It's really hard doing a post everyday...oy!

Day 3: First love

I honestly will say my husband Patrick is my first TRUE love! XOXOXOXOXOXO

Day 2 of 30 day challenge

2011-02-26T17:58:00.000-08:00

Day 2: Meaning behind blog name

I recently switched the name of our blog. It was Life After Loss. Pretty much our life after having a miscarriage, and then of course a stillborn. Since having Amelia, I felt like I wanted to look ahead and focus more on our family now. To be honest, I couldn't come up with anything "cool". So, Kelly Kids just popped in my head and I changed it! I might change it again because I don't really love the name. But for now Kelly Kids represents our life with one "kid" here on earth with us, and one "kid" waiting for us in heaven...well I guess 3 "kids" really! And, I'd like to think of Patrick and I as "kids" too :) Any suggestions on a more clever name??

Day 1 of 30 day

2011-02-25T08:07:00.000-08:00

Day 1...Introduce, recent picture, and 15 interesting facts

Hello to my 4 faithful readers :) You already know me...Megan, wife and mommy!

Here is the most recent pic of me. Taken in Grand Rapids at Anne's house. I am holding Amelia and my mom is holding Graydon.

1. I help with our family business and sell headstones and urns.

2. I worked at Cedar Point for 2 summers on the Corkscrew.

3. When I was 3, my mom had me on the back of her bike in a baby seat, and a boy shot me in the head with a pellet gun from his bedroom window.

4. I've been married now for over 4 years!

5. I loved our wedding...my husband even wrote, sang and played a song for me on the piano during the ceremony.

6. I can play the piano.

7. I like to sing, but don't like to in front of others.

8. I talk to my husband several times throughout the day on gmail's chat.

9. Most of my extended family lives right in our area. I still have my grandmothers here and even one granpda! I love them all :)

10. I still get together with childhood friends. My dear friend Jolene and I have been friends for 25 years...whoa, I'm getting old :/

11. I'm looking out the window right now at the huge pig from the movie "Whip It."

12. After some rough college years and going through some struggles...I became a Christian in 2002. Can't believe it's almost been 10 years! Most important decision of my life--by far.

13. I have had 3 pregnancies. My first was a twin pregnancy, that ended in miscarriage at 10 weeks. We were heartbroken. My second pregnancy, ended in a stillbirth of a beautiful baby boy that we named Liam. July 23, 2009...the hardest day of my life. The weeks leading up to July 23, were such painful weeks too. Many appointments that left us in tears. That entire journey has affected me in soooo many ways. (More on that in a later 30 day post) And, my third pregnancy, ended on Sept. 21, 2010, with our beautiful daughter Amelia Rose. She is my joy!!!! I simply can not put into words my love for her.

14. I would love 2 or 3 more kids. But...not sure if that's the Lord's plan for us. Each pregnancy is kinda high risk for us now.

15. I hate winter and being cold! The end :)

starting a 30-day blog challenge

2011-02-24T12:12:00.001-08:00

I found this on a blog I follow and thought it would be fun to do. It is a 30-day blog challenge. I will start day 1 later today!

Day 1-Introduce, recent picture, 15 interesting facts
Day 2-Meaning behind your blog name
Day 3-Your first love
Day 4-Your parents
Day 5-Your siblings
Day 6-A picture of something that makes you happy
Day 7-Favorite movies
Day 8-A place you've traveled to
Day 9-A picture of your friends
Day 10-Something you're afraid of
Day 11-Favorite TV shows
Day 12-What you believe
Day 13-Goals
Day 14-A picture you love
Day 15-Bible verse
Day 16-Dream house
Day 17-Something you're looking forward to
Day 18-Something you regret
Day 19-Something you miss
Day 20-Nicknames
Day 21-Picture of yourself
Day 22-Favorite city
Day 23-Favorite vacation
Day 24-Something you've learned
Day 25-Put your iPod on shuffle, first 10 songs
Day 26-Picture of your family
Day 27-Pets
Day 28-Something that stresses you out
Day 29-3 Wishes
Day 30-a picture

Anyone want to do this with me??!!

5 months already?!

2011-02-21T10:20:00.000-08:00

Weight: 16 lbs 10 oz!!! She is just so big now. I want her to slow down!
Height: not sure
Diapers: Still doing the cloth diapers. Wearing size 3 disposables. I put them on her when we go out and sometimes for overnights.

Clothes: 3-6 months are tight now. Wearing more and more 6-9 months. I just washed a load of 6-9 months that had never been worn. Alot of it is for summer though....hopefully we can layer with sweaters.

Milestones: She has been rolling again this past month from belly to back. She has not yet rolled from back to belly though. She can kind-of tolerate tummy time. Amelia loves to kick her legs and move her feet. When she gets excited she moves her arms and legs and makes cute noises. She also has belly laughed! She giggles alot now too and babbles alot of her awake time. She is constantly chewing on her tongue, lips or hands. She still drools up a storm. She is really liking sitting with help. I think she will soon be sitting on her own. She also is taking baths in the big bathtub! She loves to splash.

Eats: 100% momma still. Breastfeeding has been so good! My supply has pretty much evened out. I usually feed her on one side every 3-4 hours. Sometimes she will eat from both sides. My goal was always 6 months...can't wait to go longer! I'm so thankful for all of the support I've had from family and friends on keeping up with breastfeeding! She loves momma, but still doesn't take the bottle. We probably will just jump straight to the sippy cup when the time comes. She really likes to eat when it's quiet and she is easily distracted. This really bugs her sometimes! She still likes to make sure I'm watching her eat and she has to grab onto my hair, clothes, skin...anything.

Sleep: Eeeeek....sleep....hmmmmm. Well the positive part is that she usually falls alseep fairly easily/quickly in her crib at night, anywhere from 8pm-10pm. Most nights, she ends up in bed with us. We are so tired, that it's just easier for me to feed her in bed and not have to get back up to take her to her crib. She sleeps 11-12 hours each night...but gets up at least twice in the night(I'm hoping it's a teething thing and that she will get better soon!) Her naps have been OK. Her morning nap is her best nap, usually 1-2 hours. She has been taking an afternoon and early evening nap as well. Those are usually 30 mins-2 hours.

Loves: Jumperoo, bumbo, playmat, sitting on our laps, catching a glimpse of the television, looking in mirrors, bath time, being nude :), getting her diaper changed, being flat on her back, having us sing to her, momma's milk, daddy and momma's bed, music, reading books, watching us eat, watching us talk, being held and walked around to look at things, rolling her feet around.

Dislikes: her carseat, hats, tummy time, being woke up when she isn't ready, having to wait to eat, (she can really scream now....) having her nosed suctioned, (she can sometimes tolerate it) the bottle, hot feet

Since she hates her carseat (but she has been better)...we purchased a Britax Marathon that she will soon get to be in.

I go to a bible study on monday nights, and Amelia stays home with daddy. (except once, they both came to the church) This has been up and down, because she really likes nights with me to sometimes "cluster" feed. But it's been really good for me to have this time away. I also work in the afternoons and my mom watches Amelia. This has been working out really well.

This past month has been so nice for me! I finally am comfortable and loving being a mommy. She has developed such a personality, that I can't help but be joyful everyday. I am so thankful to be able to have this special opportunity to have a daughter. I just love her more and more each day. I can't wait to watch and be apart of her life this next month! I will probably say this every month, but I seriously think that this is the best and most enjoyable stage right now!

Here is the bow holder I made. I really don't like it too much...oh well! It serves a purpose :) I bought a stencil and painted the birds and flowers on it, and then added the ribbon to the bottom.

4 month well visit

2011-02-01T07:09:00.000-08:00

Weight: 15 lb. 8 oz.....75th %
Height: 25 inches.....75th %
Head: 41.8 cm....75th %

Just a little update :)

She did pretty good with her shots. She only cried for maybe 10 seconds. She was fussy in the evening and just wanted to nurse and sleep.

The doctor said to start her on food after she turns 5 months. The APA recommends babies be eating at 6 months, so she said to get her to be "eating" by 6 months, you start around 5 months. Does that make sense?

Can't believe she once weighed 6 lbs. 4 oz!! She has more than doubled her weight. And she was 19 1/2 inches when she was 6 days old...she has grown 1/2 a foot already!

I just want time to stand still sometimes. Love her soooo much!!

4 months

2011-01-21T07:18:00.000-08:00

Weight: She weighed just over 15 lbs. a few days ago. I will update after her appointment in 10 days.

Height: Not sure...will update.

Diapers: Using cloth about 90% of the time. Wearing size 3 disposables (we had 2 packages from my showers). I am washing a load of diapers every 2-3 days. The cloth diapers actually contain her messy diapers better than disposables. She poops 1-5 times a day.

Clothes: 3-6 months...but with a cloth diaper on, some things are snug. Probably will be in 6-9 months in the next month.

Milestones: Imitating mommy and daddy a lot now. Turning head all the way to the side when she hears us. Follows us around with her eyes. She knows us for sure now. Grabbing things and putting them in her mouth...teethers, rattles, etc...we have been trying to get her to like tummy time, I prop a small pillow under her which helps for like 2 minutes. She can raise herself onto her arms. But, she usually just screams. So, she has not rolled over in awhile. I guess she'll do it when she's ready. She can sit with support really well now too. My guess is that she's a little heavier now and it's hard for her to lug her weight around :) Another issue is that her head is kinda flat in the back and she has rubbed alot of her hair off. We are going to talk to her pediatrician about this at her 4 month appointment on the 31st. I have been trying to get her to sleep on her sides when she lays next to me. I know that this is common though, because we put babies on their backs now to sleep.

She also celebrated her first Christmas and New Year's this past month!

Eats: 100% momma. Breastfeeding is finally better now (for the most part). I am so thankful to have made it! My goal was to make it at least 6 months...almost there! She gets distracted sometimes when she eats. She'll pop off and look around, or make sure I'm still here. Or she just wants to smile at me. She grabs at whatever she can while she eats. Just likes to have her little fists full :)

Sleep: A was sleeping better, but she got a cold and it has been downhill since then. She had a few nights where she woke up every 2 hours. I think I am partly to blame though. When she was sick, I propped her up next to me on the couch. I have been extremely inconsistent on where she sleeps. Sometimes I put her in the swing, because she loves it and falls asleep in a snap...other times I rock or nurse her to sleep. And then sometimes we shush her to sleep in her crib. I bring her to bed with me on occasions as well. So, yeah, I need to stick with one thing if I expect her to get used to one thing. Pat thinks that I am more attached to Amelia being right next to me, than she is to me. Probably true. I'm just trying to suck in every moment with her. I love to hold her and be with her!

Loves: Baths, playing on her play mat, greeting daddy when he gets home from work, singing with mommy and daddy, being held, watching TV, her swing, getting her diaper changed, gnawing on her hands or anything that she can get her hands on, babbling, drooling, her jumperoo, bumbo seat, (her legs are getting almost too big for this though already) loves nursing, reading books.

Dislikes: her carseat, hats, tummy time, being woke up when she isn't ready, having to wait to eat, (she can really scream now....) having her nosed suctioned, (she can sometimes tolerate it) and the bottle.

January 23, 2009 was the day that we found out I was pregnant with Amelia. January 23, 2010, Liam would be 18 months old. So, January 23rd is a bitter sweet kind of a day. But, man, I miss him! Having Amelia to hold and love on makes me realize how much I am missing out on with Liam being in heaven. I just can't wait to hold and love on him again! I love my kids sooo much...never thought my heart could love anyone like this.

Here are a few pics from today. She was sleepy and not really into this little shoot. She also kept trying to rip the sticker off of her onesie. Her drool got on the sticker and created a bit of a mess....hopefully next month will be better!

Amelia's dedication

2010-12-30T13:42:00.001-08:00

We held a special dedication for Amelia at our church on my birthday. Here are a few pics!

Christmas 2010

2010-12-30T13:38:00.000-08:00

3 months

2010-12-21T08:36:00.000-08:00

Wow! Amelia is 3 months old today!

**She weighs 13 lbs. 4 oz and is 24 inches long.

**She is wearing size 2 disposable diapers when we are out, and cloth diapers at home (most of the time now.)

**She can still fit in some 0-3 month clothing, but 3-6 month sizes fit a little better.

**She loves to have her diaper changed and to lay on her changing table.

**She loves laying on her playmat. She can bat at the toys now and can grab and hold onto the rings.

**She still hates tummy time!

**She does little laughs, but no belly laughs yet.

**She is still breastfeeding. I am still dealing with soreness though. Not sure what the problem is...hope to make it at least 3 more months.

**We have taken her off of the zantac for reflux. She is gassy now and still spits up...but she has been waaaay less fussy PTL! I'm thankful to have her on no meds though.

**We have learned that she sleeps alot better being swaddled. I tried a few nights without it, and she just didn't sleep as well. She does break free from it though sometimes.

**She is officially in her crib every night now! Patrick said, "no more swing or rock n play...she is sleeping in her crib!" The mattress was propped up, but it is now flat and she does fine with that too.

**She has been in a growth spurt, waking up a few times a night to eat. She has good nights and bad nights.

**We have been able to get her to bed earlier lately too, so that's nice.

**She loves her hands and sucking on them. We usually have to keep a dribble bib on her because she drools up a storm!

**She loves watching T.V. We actually googled this one night to see if it was OK for a baby her age. I guess she just loves the colors and shapes. We do not want to get her into the habit of this though.

**Amelia was dedicated unto the Lord on my birthday, December 12th! This was the best birthday present ever!! We had a nice dinner after and she got some very nice gifts.

**Her left eye still has a clogged tear duct. We tried drops, which did not work. Hopefully this will clear on its own by 6 months.

Wordless Wednesday: Amelia and Santa at the mall :)

2010-12-15T20:04:00.000-08:00

2 months old (11-21)...late post

2010-12-01T16:41:00.000-08:00

She loves her mobile in her crib!

Big smile!

Chillin in the rocker in her room.

Close-up

**Miss Amelia is 2 months old!

**She weighs 11 lbs. 12 oz. and is 23 inches long. Her lowest weight after birth was 6 lbs. 4 oz...so she has gained 5 1/2 lbs in 8 weeks.

**She still hates tummy time.

**She still hates the pacifier. I am still determined to get her to like it. I went out and bought 5 different kinds. She will suck on the NUK kind for maybe 2 minutes tops.

**She no longer crosses her eyes, but actually can follow objects now. I love seeing her watch us.

**She is still in size 1 diapers (probably could wear size 2) and 0-3 month for clothes.

**Breastfeeding has had its ups and downs. My supply has been plenty, which can be hard for Amelia. I also think I have an overactive letdown. I have dried a few different methods to make this easier for her. She has only taken a bottle of breastmilk 3 times. I need to start pumping to get a supply again for the freezer...eeeeek!!

**Amelia comes along with me to work. We usually work Monday through Friday in the afternoons. Not quite sure if this is going to work though. It gets kinda complicated trying to get stuff done, talk to people that come in, and tend to her.

**She has struggled alot this past month with being fussy and having digestive issues. There have been a few nights where it has taken us 4-5 hours to get her to go down at night. We now have a routine where we bathe her, swaddle her, feed her and turn on the kitchen fan to high. Patrick usually rocks her to sleep. This seems to work for her.

**She sometimes sleeps for 5 hours stretches in the night. But, with some of her stomach issues, she seems to stretch, squirm and grunt alot in her sleep.

**We are just starting to give her Zantac to help her with her reflux. I pray this helps her! The poor girl has been congested alot, has painful hiccups and just seems to be uncomfortable most days.

**I am in love with her smile! Even though she is in pain sometimes, she will still show us a smile. She smiles a ton in the morning. She squeels and coos now too. Her smile is so cute because she scrunches up her nose and almost shuts her eyes completely (she looks like her daddy when she does this)!

**We are trying to transition her to her crib. We lay her down for her naps in it. She usually just stares up at the mobile, smiling and squeeling. Then after about 10minutes she starts to fuss. We will hopefully have her in her crib full-time by the end of the year.

**She was a lady bug for halloween. Her friend Kilah was a ballerina and spent the evening with her passing out candy and watching a movie.

**UPDATED...the Zantac seems to help her. She is sleeping alot better and is overall more happy. I'm thinking that part of her issue is from foremilk/hindmilk imbalance (overactive supply) from what I've read. I hope to meet with a lactation consultant soon to get this all squared away.

Graydon Robert

2010-11-03T15:16:00.000-07:00

I am still catching up on here. I hope to post some nursery pics on my next post!

On Oct. 2, Anne delivered a beautiful baby boy Graydon Robert. He weighed 8 lbs. 7 ounces and was 22 1/2 in. long. I am so proud and happy for her that she had a drug-free, natural delivery...and it was fairly quick for her first time. My mom was able to be there for his birth.

This was our first visit meeting Graydon. The kids did not like getting their pictures taken. It was comical :)

So Amelia has a cousin only 11 days apart from her. He will be here to play with her again this weekend!

Newborn pictures

2010-10-24T19:39:00.000-07:00

I am still behind on blogging some posts. Anyway, I am slowly starting to catch up.

My friend Libby is a great photographer. She came over to our house when Amelia was 13 days old and took some pictures for us. Here are few that I have to share with you all.

Go to Libby's blog for some more info. on her photography. :) http://thekozys.blogspot.com/

1 month old already!

2010-10-22T07:32:00.000-07:00

**Miss Amelia is one month old! She has met many people her first month of life. She has made trips to Saginaw, Midland and Grand Rapids. She has been to church twice and over to Grandma and Grandpa Buchinger's and Grandma and Grandpa Draper's houses. Most days we spend at home enjoying our time together.

**She does not like tummy time and actually rolls over onto her back to get out of it. She is a wiggle worm!

**She was throwing-up about once a day, until the last two days, where she threw-up 3 times. Not just spitting-up but projectile vomiting. She seems to be more gassy and uncomfortable. We are going to the doctor to talk to her about her stomach issues later.

**Amelia is overall a content baby. She has been very alert the past 2 weeks. She likes to look around and sometimes when she makes eye contact, she crosses her eyes. It is sooo cute.

**We used the nipple shield to start breastfeeding, but took her off of that when she was 10 days old. She now loves to feed.

**Daddy and Amelia sit and play piano together. We are hoping she will take to it!

**She is now in size 1 diapers and in both newborn and 0-3 months clothes.

**She does not like a pacifier.

**She weighed 7 lbs. 4 oz. at 2 1/2 weeks old and grew 1/4 - 1/2 an inch. We will hopefully have her weighed tonight and update her weight. UPDATE: She now weighs 8 lbs. 8 oz...that means she gained 20 ounces in 11 days!! Woo-hooo!

This past month has been challenging, but rewarding. We love our little girl so much already! What an honor to get to be her parents! Thank you Lord for this opportunity!!

Amelia has been starting to smile in the last week. She does half smiles or little quick ones. I was able to snap a picture of her trying to smile!

4 week postpartum survey

2010-10-19T12:30:00.000-07:00

Postpartum survery...4 weeks.

How far along were you when you had your baby? according to my calculations 37 1/2 weeks...according to the doctors 38 1/2 weeks.
How long was labor? c-section because of breech position
Total weight gain: 27 pounds
Total weight loss since:22 lbs...I weighed 130 at 2 weeks postpartum...only 5 lbs to go baby!
Back into your own clothes yet? Mostly...maternity pants still are comfortable because of the incision.
Did you get stretch marks? no.
Did you deliver vaginally or by c-section? C-sec.
Best moment this week: Seeing Amelia roll over...she did it 4 times in a row today! and Grandma Cherie was here to see too :)
What I miss about being pregnant: Feeling her moving inside me.
How big is baby: She was 6.15 at birth...I think she's probably 8 to 9 now.
Baby's temperament? She is usually content and more alert now. She does have her gassy moments and she doesn't like to be changed. But overall she is a good baby so far.
What I am looking forward to: Seeing her laugh...I think she has smiled at me a few times though.

I was super sick for close to 2 weeks with a terrible cold. I lost my voice, had tonsilitis, and was unable to sleep for several nights because of coughing episodes. I am just so thankful to feel better again! I can't believe that Amelia is almost a month old already!!

Maternity pics finally!!

2010-10-15T09:37:00.001-07:00

My sister-in-law Emileigh took some maternity pictures for us 3 days before I delivered Amelia. We were all hanging out in Caseville and we were able to go down to the beach and get some pictures around sunset. This was her first "photography session" and it was a great time! Here are a few...

We had narrowed down the names to 3 and took a picture with all 3 names in the sand. Here is your name Amelia!

Thanks Em!!

October 15

2010-10-15T06:29:00.000-07:00

Today is Pregnancy and Infant Loss Awareness Day.

We are remembering our baby boy Liam Charles today. 7-23-09 You are now a big brother to a precious baby sister. We miss you so much everyday and we look forward to being with you in heaven one day!

We also reflect on our miscarriage of twins back in October of 2007.

Thanks for the shirt Auntie Anne!!

Amelia pictures and quick version of birth story

2010-09-26T06:45:00.000-07:00

I plan on writing the complete birth story in the next few days. I'll write out that short version now. I had went in last Tuesday for my 38 week check-up. The midwife checked my cervix and said she could feel a butt. We went over to the ultrasound room to find out that baby girl was breech! I was 2-3 cm. diallated. She sent me to the hospital to talk with Dr. Fettinger and Dr. Wechter (our specialist that we have seen before). Anyways, they said I was in labor (contracting every 2-3 minutes) and thought it best to deliver her that day! We had prayed that God would give the doctors wisdom on what was best for us, so we were OK with getting a c-section (not what we really wanted though). We are just so thankful to be home and healthy...all 3 of us!!

Amelia Rose

Introducing Amelia Rose

2010-09-25T17:11:00.000-07:00

She's here!! She arrived Tuesday Sept. 21 at 4:21pm. She weighed 6 lbs. 15 oz. 20 1/2 inches long. Details coming soon!!

Friend Shower

2010-09-13T12:33:00.000-07:00

Another post that is overdue. My friend's from high school: Tiffany, Abby, Kim, Arin, and Jolene hosted a shower for me at Tiffany's house on Aug. 22. I feel undeserved to have such caring friends, and so grateful to them for their love for us! Everything was beautiful!!!

The hostesses and their daughters, Abby, with daughter Chloe, Arin with daughters Selah and Luella. Love all of these girls!!

Lovely diaper cakes made by Abby and Kim.

Some of the decorations.

37 week stats and pics

2010-09-11T12:57:00.000-07:00

How far along?: 37 weeks
How big is baby?: Probably over 6 pounds
Weight Gain?: Down a pound this past week. Total weight gain: 25 pounds...I'm happy with that! Weight as of thursday morning: 150 lbs.
Maternity Clothes?: yes...busted out some warmer clothes this past week.
Sleep?: Still tossing and turning, still get up lots to pee.
Best moment this week?: Getting to take a nap after work on thursday. I really haven't napped this pregnancy...and I'm exhausted.
Food Cravings?: Cinnamon toast!
Gender?: She's a girl! AHHH---we still need a name people!!
Stretch Marks: Nada that I can see thankfully!
Movement?: some days more than others...I think she's running out of room.
What I miss?: Feeling energized
Belly Button?: In just a tad...almost flat. I don't think it will pop though.
Labor Signs?: Just tons of Braxton Hicks...and having menstrual type cramps more and more.
What I'm looking forward to?: Seeing some family this weekend, possibly.
Nursery progress: Just waiting on our wall decal for the crib wall. We still need to hang the memory boxes. Everything else is all set! I have our bags mostly packed too. Car seat is installed.
Main symptoms this week: I am really thankful...I have not had any swelling so far this pregnancy, I can still wear my rings. I haven't had acid reflux in a few weeks. I've been able to eat full meals. I think she is sitting really low now. I just started having achy groin/upper legs. Super tired. Braxton Hicks all the time...some that kinda take my breath away. But, really I think I feel pretty good overall at this point! Can't complain :)

I'm just so so so thankful to the Lord for allowing us to get this far in this pregnancy. He has brought us through so much! I'm trying to not have any expectations for the labor/delivery part. I'm trying to just trust in His plan for us, and praying for good wisdom from the doctors and nurses. We'll be in good hands!

WARNING: bare belly pics!!! Decided we have to do at least one for this pregnancy!

Mom's side shower

2010-09-03T09:07:00.001-07:00

I've been a slacker about my blog posts. Here are a few pictures from the shower that was thrown on Aug. 28 at my Aunt Nancy's house. My Aunt Nancy, her girls and my other aunts, and grandma all did such nice job! I was overwhelmed with all of the love shown for us. My Uncle's girlfriend Melissa made the cake and my Grandma made all of the chocolates shown below. There were probably 40ish people there...it was a great day!!

36 week stats

2010-09-03T08:36:00.001-07:00

Will post a picture later on!

How far along?: 36 weeks
How big is baby?: Maybe close to 6 pounds?
Weight Gain?: Wow...I gained 6 pounds in the last 2 weeks according to my doctor's scale. Total weight 151 lbs....I can't believe I'm over 150!!
Maternity Clothes?: yup
Sleep?: Tossing and turning all night still...and still getting up 3 times to go pee.
Best moment this week?: Getting to see Darci and Brandon's daughter Kilah...she is beautiful.
Food Cravings?: Just super hungry.
Gender?: girl
Movement?: yup
What I miss?: Not being so tired all of the time.
Belly Button?: still in a bit
Labor Signs?: Still lots of BH contrax. They must not be doing much though. My doctor did not do an internal yesterday, so I have no clue what my cervix is up to.
What I'm looking forward to?: Holding our daughter.
Nursery progress: My sis-in-law has really helped me get organized this past week. She bought me some baskets and bins. I got all of her clothes washed and organized. We still need to hang the mirror and pictures on the walls. I need to wash the cloth diapers and sterilize the bottle stuff. I started packing the diaper bag, but still need to pack our bags. Also, need to put in the car seat.
Weekly wisdom: Talk to your doctor about insecurities that you have. I have been feeling insecure about my baby being small or not getting enough nutrients because of some comments I have gotten from people when they compare me to other pregnant women. Anyways, I feel much better after talking with him. He told me that I have always measured on or ahead and how you show tells nothing of how big or small your baby will be. He said alot has to do with your muscles and how weak or strong they are, your starting weight and your build/frame. And he said, "you don't want a huge baby anyways, do you?" I guess I have just been feeling like my baby needs to be big to be healthy for some reason. In the end I just want a healthy baby. After having an unhealthy baby, I have been insecure at times wondering if our little girl will be healthy. He said to take these comments as compliments. All you pregnant women know how annoying people's comments can be sometimes though!! Oh, hormones ;)

35 weeks

2010-08-27T08:08:00.000-07:00

10 weeks ago, I was in the hospital wondering if I would have a micro-preemie because of all the contractions I was having. So thankful now to be at this point. 35 weeks down and 35 days left in this pregnancy (give or take ;) )
How far along?: 35 weeks
How big is baby?: I just read around 5ish pounds
Weight Gain?: I think I'm at 145...so up 20 pounds.
Maternity Clothes?: Yes ma'am. Kinda getting sick of my wardrobe though...not really wanting to buy anymore maternity clothes though.
Sleep?: It's weird because I actually haven't been that achey the last week. I toss and turn from side to side, and I have to sleep with a pillow between my legs. And I get up 3-4 times to pee (I've been carrying low this pregnancy) Also, the acid is now at a minimum.
Best moment this week?: Probably my baby showers.
Food Cravings?: nothing special...super thirsty though.
Gender?: Girly girl.
Movement?: yes, especially at night (probably because I'm paying attention and still)
What I miss?: Not being so tired all of the time.
Belly Button?: still in a bit
Labor Signs?: Well, I'm off of the procardia. It's funny because I still have the same amount of BH contrax now as when I was on the med. I pretty much have them all day on and off. They don't bother me anymore. Some are stronger than other ones though. Gives me practice using my breathing and relaxtiong techniques! Oh, my doctor said last friday, that they don't usually do internal checks until 39 weeks...
What I'm looking forward to?: picking out a name and actually holding our little girl. And, my showers this weekend!
Nursery progress: Everything is pretty much done, except for: need to clean out the closet and organize, hang some wall decor, maybe buy a rug. I think that's about it. I will post pictures after we get everything organized in there after the final baby shower.
Weekly wisdom: Enjoy this time before the baby arrives. Suck in every moment with your husband and cherish this season of life, just husband and wife!

This was taken this past sunday in my 34th week. I will post a more current picture after this weekend!

First Baby Shower

2010-08-24T07:07:00.000-07:00

This past Saturday was my first baby shower. Patrick's family threw this one for me at a restaurant in Frankenmuth. It was a very nice day! We played a fun game where we held a piece of paper behind our backs and tore out the shape of a baby. We also made bracelets. I made a precious bracelet for our baby girl, in purples and lavenders. They are all so excited to hold our daughter and I am so thankful that she'll have all of these wonderful people in her life!

Lovely cake

Opening gifts

With Grandma Cherie and Great-gramma Rita

With Aunt Chrissy and cousin Jade

Making bracelets

Can't believe in about 6 weeks we will all be meeting our little girl!

32 week stats and preview of nursery

2010-08-04T08:58:00.000-07:00

How far along?: 32 weeks
How big is baby?: under 4 pounds
Weight Gain: +1 pound in the last 2 weeks. Total weight: 143 lbs. up 18 lbs total.
Maternity Clothes?: yes, I bought a denim skirt last week and I have worn it like 5 times already! Wish I would've bought it sooner..
Sleep?: Has been OK, just toss and turn alot. My back and ribs have been sore the last few days.
Best moment this week?: Getting more baby stuff done...Kevin and Amy stopped by last week with the stroller and carseat. What a blessing!
Food Cravings?: I crave bad foods...I tried McDonald's the other day...McChicken and small fry..bad idea!! It completely messed my stomach up...looks like my body is used to not eating grease.
Gender?: girl
Movement?: yes, the ultrasound today showed her head down, and her feet up by my ribcage. I feel hiccups down low usually by my left hip.
What I miss?: a cool house
Belly Button?: still in a bit
Labor Signs?: just getting more and more BH contrax. friday was my last cervical check. It is holding strong around 3ish. I get to get off of the Procardia in 2 weeks!!
What I'm looking forward to?: The wedding this weekend
Nursery progress: Painting done, curtains up...i guess we're just going to buy a glider now for the nursery. It will cost too much to reupholster the rocker.
Weekly wisom: Don't sweat the small stuff

I will post a belly picture later!

It's been a year already...

2010-07-26T08:52:00.000-07:00

Friday was the one year anniversary of Liam being born and entering into heaven. We miss him sooo much!

Here are some pictures of his headstone.

Front view

Back view...Patrick designed this family tree. It goes up to Liam's great-grandparents.

We had a small family get together to remember and celebrate our precious son.

Patrick's mom's side

Patrick's dad's side

We didn't take a picture of my family, but they were there too!

It still is hard for me to think about the day I delivered him. It was the worst day of my life. I will long to hold him again until the day I die. But, I am thankful to God for giving us so much hope and strength through this past year. Liam will always be our first born and soon he will be a big brother to our little girl! We have so much to look forward to. OK...time to stop writing this at work...tears are streaming down my face :)

Maybe I'll write more about Liam later...

Thanks for taking the time to pray for us and think about us this past Friday.

30 week stats

2010-07-23T08:21:00.000-07:00

How far along?: 30 weeks
How big is baby?: 3ish pounds
Weight Gain?: I only gained 1 lb. in the last 2 weeks...what?! Is it the low/no fat diet? The doctor didn't seem too concerned. Total weight: 142...what I weighed 5 weeks ago and I guess today as well. Total gain: 17 lbs.
Maternity Clothes?: yes
Sleep?: I usually have acid coming up in the back of my throat when I'm trying to fall asleep...I wake up 3ish times to pee...so yeah, it's OK.
Best moment this week?: Seeing baby girl on ultrasound this morning...her head was down and to the left side, and her body was curled up and around, with her legs up by my right ribs.
Food Cravings?: Still hungry alot...I really would love fat greasy food though.
Gender?: sugar and spice :)
Movement?: yes, yes and yes...espcially up near my ribs now.
What I miss?: My baby boy Liam...one year ago today...such a heartbreaking day.
Belly Button?: Still in...probably won't pop out.
Labor Signs?: More BH this week.. and kinda crampy sometimes. My cervix is now measuring 3.3-3.5. Still taking Procardia XL. Doctor thinks I'll deliver a couple weeks early? Don't think they can really predict that. We'll see...
What I'm looking forward to?: Tonight...spending time with close family...remembering our son.
Nursery progress: Painting was started last night by Patrick. He is super paranoid about me being anywhere near paint...so I have to peak in the room occasionally just to get a glimpse of the progress :)
Milestone: 75% of pregnancy is behind me...and can't believe it's been a year already.

I will be putting another post up this weekend about Liam, today and some pictures of his headstone. xoxo Megan

Blurry pic at work in the bathroom :)

28 weeks yay!!

2010-07-09T10:24:00.000-07:00

How far along?: 28 weeks
How big is baby?: around 2 1/4 pounds
Weight Gain?: I weighed 141 at the doctor's on wednesday...so I had lost 4 pounds in the hospital, and I gained back 3 in a week! Total gain: 16 lbs.
Maternity Clothes?: all bottoms, still can wear some normal tops
Sleep?: super tired...part of it is from the Procardia, and most of it is from tossing and turning at night, and being pregnant!
Best moment this week?: Seeing little girl on ultrasound again :)
Food Cravings?: Just flat out hungry alot! But, I'm on a low-fat diet...boo
Gender?: girl...still need a name
Movement?: yup
What I miss?: A cool house...not a 92 degree house...grrr, oh well, I still love summer!
Belly Button?: it's not a crater anymore...my scar from my belly ring looks gross though. It's still an inny as of now.
Labor Signs?: BH...the procardia has seemed to help though. My cervix is still great at 4.2
What I'm looking forward to?: Seeing husband's family this weekend
Nursery progress: I ended up taking back the bed set, curtains, and bins. The colors just did not look right with the furniture. So, I'm kinda back at square 1 again.
Milestone: In 3rd tri baby!!

Finally posting a belly picture. I still feel kinda small...but definiately making progress :)

Week 25 spent in the hospital :(

2010-06-27T15:15:00.000-07:00

I'm back home finally! I have wrote out a short version of events and a long version of events.

LONG VERSION.....

Sunday: Normal Sunday for us, church, visiting, relaxing. Patrick and I were at home in the p.m. I made a salad with some raw veggies and chicken breast. He made some pizza rolls and split half with me. I got about half-way through my meal, when I started getting a pain about where my diaphragm is. I got up, walked around and the pain got worse. It felt like severe pressure on my chest and radiating pain through to my back. It was so intense that I told him that we needed to go to the ER. We jumped in the van and took off. About 2 miles down the road, the pain was so bad that I could hardly talk. I told him to call the ambulance. We pulled off onto the side of the road and waited for the ambulance to arrive. I think it took them about 10 minutes to get to us. I called my dad in the meantime, and asked him what a gall bladder attack was like (he had a bad one a few years ago) and told him that we were going to the hospital. I wasn't sure if I was having a heart attack or what. The ambulance came to the intersection and I jumped out of the van and over to it. They checked my vitals and told me that it probably was not my heart. Anyways, we finally made it to the hospital. I was literally in the hospital room for two minutes, when I threw-up. After that I felt completely fine again. Whoo...I was so relieved to be rid of that horrible pain! Long story short for this day...the Dr. told me that I probably just had some acid-reflux from the hormones of pregnancy. We got discharged and went home to sleep.

Monday: I woke up, ate a bowl of multi-grain Cheerios, topped with some raspberries and drenched in rice milk. I went to work as usual, still feeling OK. My first customer arrived around noon or so...and that's when I started feeling the pains again. I layed down on the futon in the back, took some maalox and called my mom. She agreed to relieve me at 3:00 from work, so I could go home and rest. I called Patrick and told him that I wasn't feeling well again. He got out of work early and brought me some prilosec. The pain was getting more intense, so I called my Dr. She said to go back in if the pain was bad and if I was unable to eat or drink. So, we headed back to the ER. This time they did an ultrasound of my gall bladder. They found that I did have some issues with it. My blood tests also came back, showing that my liver enzymes were elevated. They decided to admit me to the OB floor and hook me up to fluids. Once we got over to the OB floor, I noticed I was having alot of tightening or contractions. I was put in a room with another girl and told that my husband could not stay with me. I could not help but start to cry. After everything we went through last year, I was not going to be by myself through this new journey. Finally, after talking to the doctor and nurse, they moved me to a private room so he could stay with me. I was contracting every ten minutes or so, which they said was probably from dehydration. That night the contractions led up, thankfully.

Tuesday: I was taken for an MRI. They found a stone blocking my bile duct. I had to talk with a surgeon, GI Dr., and OB. They all said that I had to get this taken care of, because it could potentially lead to pancreatitis, which can get bad in pregnant women. The surgeon did not think that he could do a surgery to remove the gall bladder, because my uterus was getting too large. The GI Dr. was not comfortable doing the procedure to clear our the bile duct on a pregnant woman. He recommended that I go to a more specialized hospital like the University of Michigan Hospital. I think that day I was allowed to eat a liquid diet. I only got down some jello and a few bites of broth. I just was in constant pain. I was leary about taking pain meds, not wanting to expose my baby to too much. After they decided it best to send me to U of M, they did not allow me to eat or drink anything. The plan was for me to leave the next morning. During the night, I started having contractions every 2-5 minutes. It was not a good night of sleeping. The nurse told me that I needed to take a medicine to stop contractions, but the med would make my heart race. I am not a caffeine drinker, because I hate the feeling of my heart beating fast. So, because I was half asleep, I told her no. Anyways, in the morning, the Dr. told me that I really needed to take a medicine. I ended up taking Procardia, which does not make your heart race.

Wednesday: We basically waited all day for the word on if they had a bed ready for me at U of M. At about 1 pm, my bed shook. Come to find out, I had felt the tremors from the earthquake in Canada! Finally, around 4:30 pm, the ambulance guys arrived to take me to U of M. It was a 2 hour ride full of bumps. I was wheeled to the 5th floor of the main hospital. We were only in our room for 20 minutes, when everyone got evacuated into the hall because of a tornado warning. Patrick's mom and sister arrived (safely thankfully) and we all waited in the hall. They did all of my Iv's and stuff out there. I started feeling more contractions around this time. After the tornado warning was lifted at 10:30, they took me to the OB floor to get checked out. I was contracting again every 3-5 minutes...oy! We were super anxious to find out if this was causing me to go into pre-term labor. I had an internal, and it showed that my cervix was great. She also did the FFN test, to see if I could possibly go into labor in the next 2 weeks. We were told to just sit tight until the tests came back. We were both so exhausted. At about 2 am...the doc came in and told us that the test was negative. I did test positive for group B strep, and also for a bacterial infection (which could be treated with antibiotics). We got back to our room around 3 am. We had a new roommate. She was in her 80's and talked the whole night. She was in pain and the nurses were in and out constantly.

Thursday: We met with different doctors to decide the plan. They all agreed to not remove my gall bladder at this point in the pregnancy. I would need to go on a low-fat diet the rest of the pregnancy and get it removed after the baby is born. They also decided, to do a procedure called the ERCP. With a scope, they would go through the esophagus, through the stomach to reach the bile duct. They would cut it, to enlarge it, and remove anything that was blocking it. I would be put under with general anesthesia. They explained the risks. One was that the baby could go into distress and they gave me the choice of taking her by a classic c-section to save her. They also went through the risks of the x-rays that had to be done during the procedure. My belly would be shielded though. It was a very scary time for me. I felt so guilty for exposing my little girl to all of this stuff. Not at all what I had planned for her...but we had to weigh the risks and benefits. We were scheduled at 3pm...we made it to prep and after waiting for hours, found out that they were not really ready for me. They OB department was not lined up with the gastro department. I won't get into all of the details, but along with the doctors, we decided to reschedule for the following morning. That night was another sleepless one. Our roommate was not doing well at all. Her family was coming in from out of town and the entire night was filled with comings and goings of nurses, doctors and lights on and off.

Friday: We headed into pre-op at 10 am. I was super nervous. The procedure started around 11. I woke up to a wonderful OB nurse and she said that all went well! I asked to see Patrick right away. The baby was kicking away and doing well. I spent the afternoon with my family. I even got to go outside. I also got to eat!! The surgeon checked on me in the evening. He told us that the bile duct getting blocked during pregnancy was very rare. They do about 10 of these procedures a year. I was looking forward to a night of rest, but unfortunately we had roommates in and out of the room all night. They had moved the one lady to a private room, moved a new one in (who passed gas all night and who could not hear, so everyone was yelling at her), she got moved to ICU at 2 am...another new roomie moved in at 4am. She kept complaining that she could not swallow. So yeah, I think I slept for 2 hours.

Saturday: Released at noon...yay!! Freedom and food. On the way home we stopped at a Panera. I of course ordered low-fat items. We got onto the highway and our van was not gaining speed. The speedometer was not working either. We drove a few miles on the shoulder to the next exit. We pulled off and made a few calls. Patrick filled the transmission fluid. We ended up driving home on back roads under 40 mph. We finally made it home around 4:30. My parents made us dinner and we chilled the rest of the night. Thank you Lord for getting us through the week!!!

(I left out a few things...I am sick of writing though :) )

Short version....

Went to the ER sunday night, released and back in on monday. Found out that my bile duct was blocked from my gall bladder. Surgeons in Saginaw did not feel comfortable doing anything to me because of the pregnancy. I was transported to the UofM hospital in Ann Arbor on wednesday. Thursday, ERCP was supposed to be done, but things got messed up before the procedure with scheduling. Friday, ERCP was done successfully. Bile duct is all cleaned out and opened up. I will get my gall bladder out after the baby is born. I was released on Saturday. My week was not the greatest. I could not eat or drink (except for 2 days I did try clear liquids), I had old ladies for roommates that were loud and we got nooo sleep all week. I had lots of contractions and was given medicine. It was a very suspenseful week and thankfully we are home. Oh, on the way home from Ann Arbor, our van had some transmission trouble. We had to drive under 40, in 3rd gear, on back roads. What a week!!

My husband was absolutely phenomenal through this. He literally never left my side. I noticed after about a day, that he would not eat around me. He hardly ate, because he felt bad that I couldn't eat and he slept in very uncomfortable conditions. We have been through so much in our marriage, and I am more and more amazed by his loyalty and love for me and our children. Our families were also very supportive. My parents visited several times and so did Patrick's mom and sister. My brothers, wives and kids also visited. I was so uplifted to see my niece and nephew. Our pastor also visited twice, and so did the our special friends from church the Greenfield's. Thanks guys for the prayers and love. :)

24 weeks

2010-06-04T09:08:00.000-07:00

I've been slacking...sorry!

How far along?: 24 weeks
How big is baby?: I think a little over a pound
Weight Gain?: I weighed myself this morning...I weighed in at 138lbs...up 13 pounds total.
Maternity Clothes?: Mostly, I wear normal shirts still...smalls and more mediums now. I bought some sale stuff at Old Navy last week, and I finally bought a pair of pregnancy shorts (not capris, but shorts)...yeah my legs are super super white though ;)
Sleep?: Exhaustion has been hitting me for the past 2 weeks...like 1st trimester sleepiness.
Best moment this week?: Well, last week I got to see baby girl on ultrasound again...and in 4d for awhile. I go in this coming Wednesday for my last cervical check, yay!
Food Cravings?: I'm just pretty much hungry alot now!
Gender?: girl...still working on a name :)
Movement?: tons...I can feel her stretched out, moving down low and up high at the same time, or feeling movement in 3 places at once.
What I miss?: Liam so much lately it hurts...my heart has really been aching lately. I think because it's almost the year marker and because we've been working on designing his headstone..finally.
Belly Button?: ugly, like a crater
Labor Signs?: hope not...just been feeling randon cramps, pressure, and stuff sometimes...realized I can't over do it at all without paying for it big time after.
What I'm looking forward to?: holding my baby in my arms and hearing her cry
Nursery progress: crib is all set-up, bedding is here, changing table all set-up...tried out one paint sample, chandelier hung, 1/2 of the storage bins just arrived yesterday for the changing table, clothes from Chrissy are sorted out, dresser and rocker will be going to our friend Matt's this weekend to be painted, might order curtains soon from Urban Outfitters...half of room is cleaned out!
Weekly wisdom: focus on the people that are supportive, not on the ones that aren't! AND, don't over-do it...you are now 30, you were just pregnant last year, and you were not back in shape when you got pregnant again six months ago!!

I will post a new belly pic tonight or this weekend of just me.

21+ weeks

2010-05-24T09:01:00.001-07:00

At my cousin Erin's shower
Erin 30 weeks with twins, Anne 21+ weeks, Me 21 weeks, Stephanie 10 weeks

How far along?: 21+ weeks
How big is baby?: size of a papaya, and almost a pound
Weight Gain?: I weighed 135 at the doctor's this past thursday, so up 10 lbs!
Stretch Marks?: nada
Maternity Clothes?: yes...realized i like the full-panel the best...the half-panel pants hurt!
Sleep?: so-so, back is starting to hurt
Best moment this week?: lots of things...getting bags of baby girl clothes from my sister-in-law Chrissy (along with some other things), Erin's babies shower...
Food Cravings?: Charley's steakery chicken philly with fries, dipped in malt vinegar and ketchup!!
Gender?: lovely little girl
Movement? More and more...hubs felt her 2 weeks ago
What I miss?: not being so emotional and overwhelmed
Belly Button?: wide and shallow...and ugly :)
Labor Signs?: no...just a few braxon hicks
What I'm looking forward to?: 3rd trimester
Milestone?: lots of little ones...over halfway there!

She's heart healthy!!!

2010-05-11T06:54:00.000-07:00

*Sigh*

I'm just so grateful...so thankful...so humbled. Yesterday we met with Dr. Wechter. I love that doctor so much. He's the doctor that says...feel free to call me day or night with any concerns. His nurse met with us first and did a quick scan of the baby. Then the doctor came in. He started scanning her heart right away. He said he could tell within the first 30 seconds that her heart looked healthy. He was in a very good mood...joking around alot with us. Last year was all bad news appointments, with very somber nurses and doctors. Yesterday's appointment was the complete opposite. I could go into more detail about yesterday's visit...but I'll just sum it up. Baby girl seems to be completely healthy!! We actually left an appointment smiling! So, thank you all for the many thoughts and many prayers.

Here is one of the pictures from yesterday. She is measuring still a week ahead at 19w4days. Due date still 10-01-10

not so clear picture...but it's a close-up of her face...side profile...and her hand coming up to her mouth, with mouth open. Arrow is pointing to her nose.

xoxoxoxo--Megan

It's a....

2010-05-02T18:03:00.000-07:00

GIRL!!!!

It's been quite the week.

Sunday: Went into the ER, because I had been having lots of pain and pressure. I wanted to make sure my cervix was fine, and that I wasn't having contractions. After a bunch of tests, exams, and an ultrasound, they diagnosed me with an acute UTI. During the ultrasound we got to see our baby. Much to our surprise, the tech did a complete anatomy scan. The most exciting part, was that he could see all four chambers of the heart. What a relief! Liam's heart defect was diagnosed at 16 weeks, because it was so noticeable that he only had 2 developed chambers. We're so thankful for seeing four chambers. The tech told us that he was not allowed to tell us the gender at the ER. So, instead of telling us what it was, he just said.."I don't see any boy parts!"

Tuesday: Picked up our new used mini-van. It's a humble vehicle, but it's a great step-up from Patrick's Safari...which, by the way, sold very quickly for the asking price. Woo-hoo!

Wednesday: Appointment at the OB. The tech did my cervical length ultrasound. Cervix is good. She also confirmed the sex of the baby...still a girl! Just seems weird to not be pregnant with a boy...but I'm super excited!! That night, we visited Patrick's mom and step-dad. Her birthday was days before, so we thought we'd surprise her with a visit. She was floored. We gave her a small card that said "It's a girl," along with some pink flowers. She sobbed. It's just nice to be able to give our family some good news.

Thursday: We told my parents. We went over to their house with a card. The front said "It's a..." and the inside said "GIRL!!" My dad had guessed boy, and my mom was on the fence...so yeah, they were surprised, thankful and excited!

Friday: We headed to my brother's graduation ceremony in Indiana. We had a great weekend with my family.

Saturday: Graduation stuff...fun day!

Sunday: Headed back to Michigan to attend Patrick's best friend's graduation ceremony. Him and his wife are also expecting a girl. Can't wait to see Patrick and Brandon with their daughters together! And the last thing to top off the week...Anne called and told me that they are having a BOY. I am so excited for them! So many are having girls right now, that it will be nice to have a boy in the mix.

Here are some pics from this past week:

18 weeks :)

Rents, bros and me...

and lastly...18 week stats

How far along?: 18 weeks

Total weight gain: I weigh the same again....I guess I've gained 6ish pounds total.

How much does baby weigh?: ??

Maternity clothes?: yup

Stretch marks?: nope

Sleep?: little better

Best moment this week?: Seeing the heart!!

Movement?: on and off

Food cravings?: really thirsty

Labor signs?: hope not

Belly button in or out?: still wide and shallow

What I miss: Liam Charles

What I'm looking forward to: my appointment next monday with the specialist

Milestone: finding out the gender...GIRL!!

First belly pic with #2

2010-04-18T19:39:00.001-07:00

16 weeks...here we go!

16 weeks :)

2010-04-17T13:58:00.000-07:00

My dad thought it would be nice for me to have something to rest on at work. We moved the futon from our spare room over to the store and set it up in the back room. SO.....we took a leap of faith and set the crib up!!!! It's beautiful...it was my nephew Sam's crib and I am honored that we get to use it for our children. Okay, just thought I'd share this, this was a huge step for me.

Stats:

How far along?: 16 weeks

Total weight gain: according to the OB's scale...I am up 6 pounds total. It's odd because I weighed the same exact weight last month at 12 weeks! Patrick reminded me that I had on a coat and stuff last time though.

How much does baby weigh?: about 3 1/2 ounces

Maternity clothes?: pants and a few shirts

Stretch marks?: nope

Sleep?: tossing and turning still

Best moment this week?: my appt. yesterday. My original appt. was for tuesday, but I went in yesterday because I had been having some pressure that didn't feel right. All is well...my cervix looks fine, I will get results monday to see if it's a bladder thing. The baby's heartbeat sounded lovely! She said it was in the 140's.

Movement?: Not sure if I feel flutters or if it's gas or something. The next few weeks I should start feeling definite movement.

Food cravings?: Not really. Loving juice still.

Labor signs?: nope...just craziness with my uterus laying out its territory, pushing around everything else down there!

Belly button in or out?: still wide and shallow

What I miss: ignorant bliss...the midwife said for someone that has gone through what I have, the ignorant bliss of pregnancy is gone. Praying through this day by day!

What I'm looking forward to: feeling better...I have had a sore throat for a few days now...this morning I woke up with a sinus infection (that's the second one this pregnancy) I'm just laying around today :)

Milestone: 16 weeks was when we found out that Liam probably had a heart defect...so far we don't know with this baby the condition of its heart. I'm just thankful to be in the 2nd trimester.

Upcoming appointments: April 28th...OB to check my cervix...I had a cone biopsy done at the end of 2007, so my cervix gets checked biweekly from 18-24 weeks. And, its just a normal appointment. Maybe they'll scan over the baby while they are checking my cervix and check the gender!! May 10...Dr. Wechter for the level II ultrasound. Praying for a heart healthy baby! We for sure will know the gender this day.

Have a nice week! Maybe I'll take a pic soon of my expanding wasteline ;)

My job

2010-04-13T11:06:00.000-07:00

Grace Monument Co.

This is my dad's monument business that he has been operating, out of my parents house, for the last 10 years. In December, he took the plunge and decided to open up a full-time show room. I am now the manager of the new store. I really like my job. I feel like I can kind-of relate to people that are grieving the loss of a close friend or family member, and I genuinely want to help them keep their loved one's memory alive.

We are located in Vassar, just south of the city limits on M-15. Come stop in! We are running a 10% off grand opening discount.

Patrick and I finally have Liam's granite ordered. We are currently in the process of designing it. We are putting his footprints on the front somewhere, and Patrick is designing a family tree to place on the backside (he is the artsy one of us!). So, soon I will post pictures of it. Back to work now :)

My "bump" is just belly fat misplaced by baby, mixed with bloating :)

2010-04-08T18:40:00.000-07:00

My title of this blog explains why I'm not putting a picture up yet! I might start next week though just to have a comparison.

How far along?: 15 weeks

Total weight gain: my scale here must lie...the other morning i was only up 3 pounds total

How much does baby weigh?: no idea

Maternity clothes?: still pants

Stretch marks?: none from this pregnancy

Sleep?: tossing and turning most of the night

Best moment this week?: Easter Sunday's church service...I am so much more thankful for the resurrection since Liam has gone into heaven. I can cry just thinking about it...we are all going to be together one day!

Movement?: I think I have actually been feeling flutters...I read that sometimes you can feel movement earlier in second pregnancies.

Food cravings?: I am usually super thirsty.

Labor signs?: hope not...but have been having major round ligament pains...did not have it like this last time at all!

Belly button in or out?: getting widened by the belly fat :)

What I miss: clear skin...it's been terrible for nine months now

What I'm looking forward to: spending the weekend with people we love

Milestone: each day of grace is a milestone

Pet peeve: bare bellied pictures on facebook...my hubby feels the same way...oy!

13-week stats

2010-03-27T13:30:00.000-07:00

I did these last time and I will try to keep them going this time as well!

How far along?: 13 weeks
Total weight gain: unsure...don't know how much I was to start with, but I'm guessing under 5 pounds total
How much does baby weigh?: no idea
Maternity clothes?: pants
Stretch marks?: none from this pregnancy
Sleep?: so-so...we have a new mattress and I'm still adjusting
Best moment this week?: when the doctor told me that i'm a week ahead of schedule, so she moved my due date up to 10-01-10!!
Movement?: nothing that can be felt
Food cravings?: none...i'm still queasy alot :/
Labor signs?: hope not
Belly button in or out?: starting to widen already
What I miss: my boy
What I'm looking forward to: to having more energy and feeling better, but i'm not complaining...i had prayed for lots of symptoms!
Milestone: just making it this far is a milestone to me

New prayer request

2010-03-24T17:03:00.000-07:00

Meggo is preggo again! We are expecting baby #2 on 10-01-10. I knew that getting pregnant after Liam would be very emotional and trying. Well, that has been very true so far. We found out we were pregnant 6 months to the day of Liam's birth and death. We were shocked, excited and very emotional. We both sobbed our eyes out. All of those feelings, soon turned into fearful thoughts for me. I thought that maybe we jumped into this too soon after Liam's death, especially since I am still grieving his loss so intensely. Why would I want to risk going through that pain and heartbreak again? It has been a daily battle of what-if's.
Thankfully, we have made it through the 1st trimester, the first hurdle of a pregnancy! I waited until the 11th week to see a Dr. I had seen so many doctors last time, that I wasn't quite ready to step back into appointments early on. Our baby has a strong heartbeat and is very active already. We see the specialist, Dr. Wechter, on May 10th. He will do a level II ultrasound and check this baby's heart. PLEASE PRAY!! I am already so nervous about this. I know not many read this, but for those who do, thank you for your thoughts and prayers during these past few years. I will try to be dedicated in updating our blog.

It's been awhile....

2010-02-25T06:54:00.001-08:00

I haven't blogged in awhile, because it sometimes feels narcissistic. But my original purpose to blog, was for me to keep a few of our life events on file. With that being said, one major thing that happened to us was two fridays ago. Patrick and I had driven separately to the monument store for domino night. We came back to our house after 10pm to find our back garage door and our door to get into our house WIDE open. I sat in the driveway for minute wondering if maybe the wind had blown them open. I looked around and realized that it wasn't windy though. I called Pat right away and told him that the doors were wide open. He pulled in, got out, and sat in my car with me. We have 3 cops that live right around us, so we thought that we would call our neighbor George to come over and check things out with us. He was working, so Patrick just decided to call 911. They told us to stay in our car until the police arrived. A Vassar cop came within a few minutes. A neighbor, who lives at the end of the cul-de-sac, pulled up beside the cop to tell him that her front door was wide open, but she thought that the person walked in and walked out because her daughter was in her bedroom. The cop told us that someone on Margery Ct. (which is the sub right behind ours) had a B&E around 7pm earlier that night. Pat and the officer went inside the house to check things out. I stayed in my car and called my parents. They came right away and my mom sat in with me, while my dad went in with the guys. After taking pictures and checking our house in and out, Pat came out to tell me that yes we had been broken into. The person was after jewelry and cash. He ended up looking through all of our closets, dressers drawers, bathroom vanity, etc. He took Patrick's computer bag, dumped it out on the floor and put all of our jewelry box things into that. Most of my jewelry was not touched because he did not find it...PTL! But, I had just inherited some family jewelry and that was on my dresser in my box and taken. One item my grandma had given to me at Christmas, it was a piece that was given to her by her grandmother. I am pretty bummed about that. Overall, he did not take many things, surprisingly. We just feel pretty violated. We now know to keep lights on to make it seem like someone is always home. Thankfully, we are starting to feel more secure again in our own home. We pray that this person will get caught soon, so that he does not do this to anyone else!

This experience has reminded me of how fast an event like this can happen. We were so unaware and unprepared for this to happen. But, God brought to my attention that this is how the Lord will come back:

Matthew 24:42-44
Therefore keep watch, because you do not know on what day your Lord will come. But understand this: If the owner of the house had known at what time of night the thief was coming, he would have kept watch and would not have let his house be broken into. So you also must be ready, because the Son of Man will come at an hour when you do not expect him.

Maybe this was a wake-up call for us to really keep our priorities straight in life! Hmmm...just a little lesson for me I guess :)

And lastly, another comforting reminder of why we face trials in this life. This last year has been full of trials for us, but I am so humbled that God is growing Patrick and I in our faith!!!

James 1:2-4
Consider it pure joy, my brothers, whenever you face trials of many kinds, because you know that the testing of your faith develops perseverance. Perseverance must finish its work so that you may be mature and complete, not lacking anything.

Remembering babies worldwide

2009-10-05T15:36:00.000-07:00

Poem

2009-07-31T08:48:00.000-07:00

I found this poem on Nicol Sponberg's website. She lost her son to SIDS. Well said.

Please Be Gentle
By Jill B. Englar

Please be gentle with me for I am grieving.
The sea I swim in is a lonely one
and the shore seems miles away.
Waves of despair numb my soul
as I struggle through each day.
My heart is heavy with sorrow.
I want to shout and scream
and repeatedly ask 'why?'
At times, my grief overwhelms me
and I weep bitterly,
so great is my loss.
Please don’t turn away
or tell me to move on with my life.
I must embrace my pain
before I can begin to heal.
Companion me through tears
and sit with me in loving silence.
Honor where I am in my journey,
not where you think I should be.
Listen patiently to my story,
I may need to tell it over and over again.
It’s how I begin to grasp the enormity of my loss.
Nurture me through the weeks and months ahead.
Forgive me when I seem distant and inconsolable.
A small flame still burns within my heart,
and shared memories may trigger
both laughter and tears.
I need your support and understanding.
There is no right or wrong way to grieve.
I must find my own path.
Please, will you walk beside me?

Liam Charles 7-23-09

2009-07-30T07:37:00.001-07:00

I plan on writing a more in-depth post of Liam's story later and posting some pictures. For now though, I just wanted to say thank you to everyone who has been there for us through this experience. We know so many people have prayed for so many weeks with us. The Lord has decided that Liam was needed with Him in glory. We had a beautiful funeral service for him on Monday. Please pray for us as our hearts heal. I can't believe how much I miss him already. My heart will forever have a place for our precious son. I can't wait to hold him in heaven.

Precious Nataleigh Grace

2009-07-18T07:55:00.000-07:00

In the midst of our pain and sorrow, God certainly knew what we needed yesterday. Thursday at 9:37 p.m., Nathan and Emileigh welcomed Nataleigh Grace into this world. Yesterday morning, Patrick and I decided that we needed to meet our very first niece. After having such a sorrow-filled day, I wasn't sure on how I would do emotionally with this situation. But we both fell in love with Nataleigh, and I praise the Lord for allowing us to be able to spend time with her, to hold her, and to behold His perfect timing for everything. I think He knew just what we needed yesterday. I was reminded of how precious life really is. I also felt a profound peace, that yes, we will have our time too one day. Patrick was teary-eyed as we left the hospital. He was just so joyous and happy for Nathan and Emileigh. At only weighing 5 lbs 13 oz. and 18 inches long, she is so tiny, yet she has already blessed us in so many ways. I feel honored to be her aunt.

not the best news

2009-07-15T16:33:00.000-07:00

Just a quick update...I might go into details tomorrow. Our baby has developed more fluid, now all over---called hydrops. His mitral valve has a more severe leak than last month. I am just coming up to 28 weeks and they don't think that they can help him until he is at least 32 weeks. The odds are really against him. They told me that there is a great chance of him passing away soon. If we delivered him now, I would probably have to have a classical c-section. This would put me at risk in future pregnancies. Anyways, we talked with the doctors and weighed out the risks and benefits. For now, we will keep him inside of me and hope for a miracle. My motherly instincts want to do everything I can to see him survive. I want to deliver him now and have the doctors intervene as much as possible. But, after talking with the doctors and hearing Patrick's thoughts, we will just wait. I will be checked weekly by the specialist in Saginaw. Please pray with us...that he will keep fighting until 32 weeks, that we will completely trust in the Lord through this, and that us, along with the doctors, will have the wisdom to make the best decision for our baby and for me and my health. Thank you for your comments on here! With love--Megan

26 week bump

2009-07-06T17:40:00.000-07:00

Getting bigger :)

Ob visit and 25+week stats

2009-06-30T17:00:00.000-07:00

We had a visit with our Saginaw Ob today, Dr. Minnic. First we had an ultrasound. My cervix is a little shorter than last time--3.1-3.4, but still ok. My amniotic fluid is on the high end of the normal range. The baby still had fluid on his abdomen. They didn't have the numbers from UofM, so they had nothing to compare it to today. His heart rate was 136bpm, which is in his normal range. They weren't able to look at the heart, because they are not specialized enough to. We sat down with the Dr. and had a real nice talk. He spent alot of time with us and answered any question that he could. He recommended that we see the specialist Dr. Wechter in Saginaw in the next week before we are seen in 2 weeks at UofM again. We saw Dr. Wechter 7 weeks ago, and he will be better qualified to look at our son's heart. We are just trying to take this day by day. Please pray that his mitral valve will function normally and that the fluid will clear up. Also, pray that I'll be able to carry him for as long as possible. Patrick and I talked about how this has been such a rollercoaster ride with all of the ups and downs. Life's circumstances are always up and down, but I am so thankful for the Lord who is constant, never changing. The only way we have been able to get through this, is by looking to Him. He has poured His grace on us, allowing us to have some peace and hope.

How far along?: 25+ weeks
Total weight gain: 22 pounds...142 lbs., most i've weighed in my life...catching up to my hubby :)
How much does baby weigh?: probably close to 2 pounds
Maternity clothes?: Yes and just bought a swimsuit today!
Stretch marks?: nope
Sleep?: my hips hurt alot now
Best moment this week?: seeing our baby on ultrasound
Movement?: tons now
Food cravings?: nothing
Labor signs?: no
Belly button in or out?: in between....so in still!
What I miss: nothing, i'm enjoying being pregnant
What I'm looking forward to: each day being pregnant
Milestone: making it two weeks past our last UofM appt.

I think I have officially "popped". My stomach seems to have grown so much in just two weeks!

2nd appt. at UofM

2009-06-17T12:36:00.000-07:00

We really don't know how to start this, so we'll jump right into it. We had two appts. at UofM today. The first one was with the same pediatric cardiologist that we saw last time. He did an echo of the heart and found that it looks the same as last time. The mitral valve is still leaking, the same or maybe worse than last time. The mitral valve is on the left side of his heart, the side of his heart that is developed and functioning. He also noticed that there was fluid built up around the abdomen. Our second appt., we had a level II ultrasound done. This Dr. was very blunt with us. She said that based on the fluid on the abdomen and extra amniotic fluid, that our baby is in heart failure. She said she was very worried and that based on their experience this usually keeps getting worse. If that is the case, our baby will become sick in-utero and probably pass away. She said that there is a slight chance that this could get better. She emphasized slight. She also mentioned that his gall bladder is on the opposite side of his body, maybe caused by the umbilical veins being reversed, which is probably all related to his heart developing wrong. They want to see us back down there in a month...we also have the option of being seen by the specialist in Saginaw in 2 weeks just to see how the baby is doing. But, it would just be for us to know what is going on, there is nothing they can do for him at this point. She gave us some 3D pictures, which was nice. They also told us that he weighs 1 lb. 8 oz. right now. We are still trying to process this. We have a bunch of different emotions and thoughts going through us. We still have our baby boy with us right now, kicking and squirming, and we are thankful for that! Thank you for all of your prayers.

22+ Weeks

2009-06-10T09:43:00.000-07:00

How far along?: 22+ weeks
Total weight gain: still 15 lbs.
How much does baby weigh?: i just read it...little under a pound
Maternity clothes?: Yes
Stretch marks?: no new ones
Sleep?: I've had a cold, so alot of sleep!
Best moment this week?: When Patrick felt the baby kick! awesome!
Movement?: tons now
Food cravings?: nothing, just super thirsty
Labor signs?: I hope not!
Belly button in or out?: in between....so in still!
What I miss: Nothing right now!
What I'm looking forward to: Our appt, a week from today
Milestone: still over half way!

Ob appt. in Saginaw

2009-06-02T17:47:00.001-07:00

I had maybe one of my last appts. in Saginaw today. My cervix is looking great and so was our baby boy. He again was moving all over the place during the ultrasound. His heartbeat is still around 130, which is good. I talked with the midwife about our situation and she says we will be in the best of hands at UofM. Only 2 more weeks until we head back down there. Off to relax...

21 week belly

2009-06-01T14:42:00.001-07:00

21 weeks...

2009-05-31T12:07:00.000-07:00

How far along?: 21 weeks
Total weight gain: according to my scale today 15 pounds total!
How much does baby weigh?: i just read that he's as long as a carrot.
Maternity clothes?: i only have one or two pre-pregnancy bottoms i can still wear.
Stretch marks?: no new ones
Sleep?: sometimes my hips hurt or shoulders from laying on my sides
Best moment this week?: Jolene's wedding
Movement?: yes
Food cravings?: nothing special at the moment
Labor signs?: no
Belly button in or out?: in between....so in still!
What I miss: less blotchy skin
What I'm looking forward to: picking out a name for our boy
Milestone: Over half way!!

Belly pic to come later today!!!

Update on baby boy's heart

2009-05-20T16:04:00.000-07:00

We had a very long day today in Ann Arbor at U of M. I was soooo hungry and now I am super tired! We met with a few different doctors and they all confirmed what the doctor in Saginaw had said last week that our baby does have "Hypoplastic Right Heart Syndrome" a major heart defect. This includes Tricuspid Atresia. Hypoplastic Right heart is more rare than Hypoplastic Left Heart Syndrome, but it is kind of treated in the same way. Basically, the right side of his heart did not develop. He will live on one ventricle doing all of the work. The baby was moving so much during all of our scans that they will have to see if they can get even more specific when I go back in four weeks. They were very glad that he was active though...just means that he is healthy right now, so praise God! They also noticed that his Mitral Valve is leaky. This could be a serious thing for the baby right now. We are praying that his valve will stay the same or get better. At the very end of the day, we sat down with a Dr. Russell, who explained the different surgeries that they can do. They really won't know what our child exactly needs until we move further along. There are a few things it will depend on. He will probably need a surgery within the first week of life, a surgery at 3-4 months, and a surgery at 2 years. We were encouraged when he told us that some of the kids with his defect can still lead a semi-active life...they just can't play competitive sports. He also told us that these procedures are so new, (in the last ten or so years) that they can't predict life for him in say 30 years. Some cases require a heart transplant.

It was alot to take in again today. We know God has all of this planned out for us! Thank you for all of the kind words, support, and prayers! I can't go through this alone, I need my friends and family!

All of our love--Pat and Megan

19+ weeks and update on baby!

2009-05-19T13:23:00.000-07:00

IT'S A BOY!!!!! We found at our 18 week appointment that our child is a boy! We weren't 100% for sure if we wanted to find out, but I'm glad we did! I feel even closer to this baby now. Again at this ultrasound, the tech noticed that the left atrium of his heart was really large. We sat down with the Dr. and decided to go ahead and have a Level II ultrasound with a specialist. Last Friday, we had our appointment with Dr. Wechter, (a terrific man who made us feel very comfortable)and indeed our son's heart has some problems. This specialist said that it appears that the right side of his heart didn't develop. The left side is doing all of the work. It is called Hypoplastic Right Heart Syndrome. A baby's heart is completely developed by 7 weeks. He said that the baby should be fine in-utero, which is good news. From the sounds of it, he will need a surgery soon after birth. He took alot of time with us and we got to see some up-close shots of his heart. He is sending us to the U of M Mott's Children's Hospital in Ann Arbor. We have 3 appointments lined up for tomorrow already! They will even be doing a fetal EKG...which will be interesting to see. I'm thankful that we have time to prepare for this and that we will be at a great hospital when he is born. I am amazed by all of the support from everyone. We are completely trusting in God to take care of us and this baby! I will post after our appointments on Wednesday.

How far along?: 19+ weeks
Total weight gain: up 10 lbs now!
How much does baby weigh?: no clue
Maternity clothes?: Just bought some more today...super cheap ones at Burlington
Stretch marks?: no new ones
Sleep?: it's been good...i have alot of weird dreams though
Best moment this week?: Finding out that we're having a boy!
Movement?: Yes!! everyday, many times!
Food cravings?: still juice
Labor signs?: Nope
Belly button in or out?: its in between now
What I miss: being able to move freely without having little pains
What I'm looking forward to: gaining some info on the baby's heart when we go to uofm
Milestone: almost to 20 weeks! halfway :)

17 weeks :)

2009-05-03T18:26:00.000-07:00

How far along?: 17 weeks
Total weight gain: still 7 lbs. total
How much does baby weigh?: no clue
Maternity clothes?: I bought a few at goodwill yesterday!
Stretch marks?: no new ones
Sleep?: I try to just sleep on my sides now...it's super hard!
Best moment this week?: Keeping my mind off of the last ultrasound.
Movement?: I think I've had some this past week...little thumps and bubble feelings.
Food cravings?: breakfast food...juice...
Labor signs?: Nope
Belly button in or out?: I can now see the bottom of my belly button...it's normally super deep.
What I miss: Sleeping on my back.
What I'm looking forward to: Finding out the sex and being able to see the baby's heart better.
Milestone: hmmmm......

First belly pic

2009-04-20T18:15:00.000-07:00

Here is my belly at 15 weeks.

15 weeks!

2009-04-19T16:50:00.000-07:00

How far along?: 15 weeks
Total weight gain: still 5 lbs.
How much does baby weigh?: I think I just read 4 ounces?
Maternity clothes?: some pants...busting out of my normal pants today though
Stretch marks?: no new ones
Sleep?: I am always sleepy :)
Best moment this week?: seeing people be excited about the news
Movement?: not yet
Food cravings?: sweets and juice with crushed ice
Labor signs?: Nope
Belly button in or out?: in
What I miss: looking good in clothes
What I'm looking forward to: my appointment on the 28th!
Milestone: feeling more comfortable talking about the pregnancy

I still need to take a belly pic!!!

14 week stats

2009-04-11T12:43:00.000-07:00

We are pregnant!!!! The due date is 0ct. 9, 2009. I decided I would blog some of my pregnancy stats on here so I can look back on them later.

How far along?: 14 weeks
Total weight gain: up 5 lbs.
How much does baby weigh?: no clue :)
Maternity clothes?: some pants
Stretch marks?: no new ones
Sleep?: Pretty good...just have to get up to pee twice a night
Best moment this week?: being free to tell people that we're pregnant
Movement?: not yet
Food cravings?: junk food
Labor signs?: Nope
Belly button in or out?: in
What I miss: having energy
What I'm looking forward to: the next ultrasound
Milestone: entering my second trimester!!

It has been awhile!

2008-11-21T10:44:00.000-08:00

We have not posted in ages! As most of you know, we bought a home in Vassar. It was bank owned and we got a very good deal on it. We have been working almost everyday on it since we got the keys in October. I plan on posting a more detailed post with pictures by next week. Until next time....Megan

Nathan and Emileigh's Engagement party

2008-06-16T10:36:00.001-07:00

Yes, I am posting another old slide show. I have a ton of old pictures on my camera that I am working on putting onto my computer.

These pictures are from the surprise engagement party that Nathan planned for Emileigh when she returned from her mission's trip back in March. Friends and family waited in anticipation for the two to walk through the restaurant doors in Lansing. Patrick and I are looking forward to the wedding on 08-08-08! We are excited to be apart of their marriage and we will pray for them to grow in the Lord each day!

Valentine's Day 2008

2008-06-16T10:16:00.001-07:00

I know this slideshow is from February, but I wanted to put these pics on here somewhere. I'm still trying to figure out my way around this blog. The only way I knew how to post these were in a blog :)

This was our Valentine's Day this past year. I am so thankful for my husband!

First Official Blog

2008-06-15T19:34:00.000-07:00

Hi all! This is our first blog on here. I take care of an elderly lady, as many of you know, and I found a very old Ann Lander's column taped to the inside of her broom closet the other day. The date was not on the article unfortunately. I think she called it "The Ten Commandments of a Friendship." Anyways...I really liked it and I shared it with Patrick and he also liked it.

Here it is:

1. Keep skid chains on your tongue. Always say less than you think, cultivate a low, persuasive voice. How you say it often counts more than what you say.

2. Make promises sparingly and keep them faithfully, no matter what the cost.

3. Never let an opportunity pass to say a kind and encouraging word to or about somebody. Praise good work, regardless of who did it.

4. Be interested in others: their pursuits, their work, their homes and their families. Make merry with those who rejoice; with those who weep mourn. Let everyone you meet , however humble, feel that you regard him as a person of importance.

5. Be cheerful. Don't burden or depress those around you by dwelling on your aches and pains and small disappointments. Remember, everyone is carrying some kind of burden.

6. Keep an open mind. Discuss but don't argue. It is a mark of a superior mind to be able to disagree without being disagreeable.

7. Let your virtues, if you have any, speak for themselves. Refuse to talk about the vices of others. Discourage gossip. It is a waste of valuable time and can be destructive and hurtful.

8. Take into consideration the feelings of others. Wit and humor at the expense of another is never worth the pain that may be inflicted.

9. Pay no attention to ill-natured remarks about you. Remember, the person who carried the message may not be the most accurate reporter in the world. Simply live so that no one will believe him. Disordered nerves and bad digestion are a common cause of back-biting.

10. Don't be anxious about the credit due you. Do your best and be patient. Forget about yourself and let others "remember." Success is much sweeter that way.

Alot of good principles! Reading through these made me think of some mistakes made in the past with certain friends. I'm thankful to have such graceful friends!