The night of March 16th, I received a text from Maverick's godfather, Adam. It simply said, "I don't know why but I can't shake the feeling that tonight is the night, kiddo. Praying for you." I told Brian what he said, and we both lay in bed talking about how we sure hoped he was right!
Around 11:00 p.m., I woke up to use the bathroom. I noticed a very uncomfortable tightening in my lower abdomen, much like Braxton Hicks. I shook it off, used the bathroom, and got back in bed. I laid there for a few minutes, unable to sleep bc of the pain. I decided to take a Tylenol PM and get some rest. Around 1 a.m., I was wide awake again, hurting bad. I knew the pain had woken me up, bc Tylenol PM usually knocks me on my butt for hours!!! I then decided to get out of bed and just walk a little. I had always heard that you can change positions to make BH contractions stop, but nothing will stop the real ones. They didn't stop after pacing the floors, but I laid back down anyway. I dozed on and off until about 3:30, when the pain was just too much to stay in bed. I got up and jumped in a hot shower, to see if they would subside. The whole time I was in there, I kept praying that the Lord would show me a sign so that I would know whether or not this was the real thing. My heart could not take another false alarm!
I stayed in the shower for about 35 minutes, then got out once I saw that the contractions were still coming. I then decided to try and time them, which they were about 5 minutes apart, but nothinig consistent. I woke Brian up, and he told me to call the doctor. Of course I was still hesitant, not wanting to be sent back home if it were not delivery time. I finally gave in and called around 5:00 a.m. I told them what I'd been experiencing all night. The on-call nurse told me to come on in and they would monitor me and check things out.
I was so nervous the whole ride to the hospital. Brian and I decided not to call anyone this time, until we knew that this was for sure happening! We got to the hospital and in the triage room around 6 a.m. I was only 1 1/2 cm dilated, and the contractions were not as steady. The nurse said she would be back in about an hour to see how I was doing. When the sweet nurse, Chris, came in about an hour later, I was still 1 1/2 cm. However, when she checked me, I had the "bloody show," which is an indicator of labor beginning. She also said my contractions were 3-5 min apart, so she wanted to talk to Dr. Virtue and see what he wanted to do.
Dr. V was heading into a c-section delivery, but told her he wanted to see me himself (good sign that I'd be staying!). I was excited, but didn't get my hopes up. Chris said that the drs rarely come in themselves unless they are admitting the patient, and she really felt that he would keep me and we would have a baby soon. This made me feel better, but still guarded. Finally, around 9:45, Dr. V made it in to see me. He checked me and I was 3 cm dilated!!! Praise God for progress! He said he would admit me then come around and break my water to try to get the contractions regulated. We immediately began calling our family and friends to tell them the good news...we would meet our precious boy in a matter of hours!
Dr. V broke my water around 11 a.m., and we started the pitocin shortly after. Let me tell you, I did NOT like the feeling of the water running all over the place! I felt like a helpless old lady who couldn't control my bladder! :( So, then we started the process of letting the pitocin do its job and seeing what happened! I could tell the contractions were closer, and they began to get really strong. I was trying so hard to hold out on getting the epidural, but around 1 p.m., I couldn't take it anymore! I let Chris know that I was ready! She kinda chuckled and said "Oh, are you?!" bc the whole morning I was telling her not to offer it to me, and I would let her know when I was ready! She was such a sweetheart.
I was 3-4 when she checked me at 2:25. I then got to meet Marilyn, my new nurse. Chris was actually the head nurse on the floor, so she wasn't supposed to actually have patients, but just make sure all the nurses were doing okay. However, we formed a bond that morning so she stayed with me most of the day, until Marilyn came. What a wonderful nurse she was as well! We were SO blessed with sweet ladies to take care of me and Maverick. Marilyn checked me around 4:45 and I was 5 1/2-6 cm! Well, it felt like only an hour had passed when I started feeling the strong urge to use the bathroom. I let Marilyn know, and she said "I've been waiting on you to tell me this!!!!" She rushed in the room to check me, and I was 9 cm! She said, "There is nothing in there for you to push out except a baby!!!" So she got into position to help me start pushing. Brian had been walking around outside for about 20 minutes before, so I had someone call him and tell him to GET IN HERE! :)
My mom, Brian's mom, Brian and Rosalind all gathered around as Marilyn talked me through the pushing. With each push, I was able to see his head and all the dark hair he had! I pushed for around an hour, when Dr. V came in. He said the baby's heartrate was dropping and we needed to use the suction cups to get him out. I was scared, but tried to stay focused. I pushed once more, and Dr. V said he would have to do an episiotomy :/ Again, I just focused on the fact that I needed to get him out. One more push and here came my sweet baby boy! I was absolutely amazed at the sight of him, and could not stop crying!
Maverick Paul Stiles was born on 3/17/11 at 7:43, weighing 7 lbs 9 oz, and measuring 19 3/4 inch long! What a wonderful experience to meet my baby boy for the first time. Brian was amazing in the delivery room, and was just in awe of his precious baby. We held each other and cried while they cleaned Mav up and began to sew me back up. Up until this point, my labor and delivery were a piece of cake! The sewing up process was quite uncomfortable, and I still hadn't got to hold my Maverick yet. When they finally brought him to me and placed him in my arms, I couldn't thank God enough for this beautiful miracle that he entrusted to us.
And everyone was right...I completely forgot about all of the pain and throwing up that my pregnancy brought! It was worth every minute of it!!!
Showing posts with label baby. Show all posts
Showing posts with label baby. Show all posts
Wednesday, April 27, 2011
Tuesday, March 15, 2011
No more work!
Yesterday morning I was feeling very nauseous and ended up throwing up 3 different times at work. I didn't eat or drink anything after that, except for 3 strawberries and 1/2 banana at lunch. I kept those down, thankfully. I was also having contractions all day, and when I timed them, they were 5-6 min apart! So I called the dr's office around 1:30 and they wanted to see me right away. I went in and my blood pressure was super high, 150/98! It usually stays around 120/80. So of course the dr was keeping an eye on that. He then checked my dilation and I was only 1 1/2 cm. Definitely improvement since last apt, but I was getting discouraged. I just knew that I was going to be more than that! They then hooked me up to the contraction monitor for about 45 min. The contractions were steady but irregular in strength. They took my bp again and it was still high. Dr. Wells came back in and ordered some lab work for me to go do this morning. He also said he wanted me out of work "until further notice." He said he looked for me to be back before my Thursday appointment, so we will see! Either way, I am getting excited because my due date is 11 days away! That means one way or another, we will have our baby boy in less than 2 weeks! I know this will sound reeeally weird, but I still sit back and think, "I can't believe I'm pregnant!" I'm going to be someone's Mommy in a matter of 2 weeks or less! It's such an overwhelming blessing and I can't wait to meet this special boy who has my heart already...
Wednesday, March 2, 2011
The worst disappointment...
Okay so rewind to Sunday, almost a week ago. We cleaned and did some stuff around the house, and I actually decided to pack my hospital bag! haha finally. Saturday 2 of my good friends came over and helped finish the nursery, as far as organizing and putting stuff away, so I figured I could at least pack my bag and Maverick's diaper bag. Well, around 1:45 Monday morning I woke up with a sudden urge to use the bathroom. Nothing new, it happens several times every night. As I was waking up and trying to get out of bed, I realized I was soaking wet, and so was my bed. My first thought, I peed myself...oops. Well then I went to the bathroom, and peed for like 10 minutes, no lie. I also checked out the situation of my pjs. I then went and turned on the bedroom light and noticed the huge wet spot on the bed. However, it was clear and odorless, and definitely not urine. So then I thought, oh my....my water broke. So I gently woke my husband and said, "hunny, there's no easy way to tell u this but I think my water just broke." I have never seen him sit up from a dead sleep more quickly! We talked for a second and determined that yes, it must have been my water. So I called the dr's office and left a message, and waited on a nurse to return my call.
Of course, she told us to come on in. So I took a shower, we called our family and close friends, and off we went. Freaking out the whole while. :) Well, long story short, they checked us in, examined me, determined that my water had NOT broken, and put me on the contraction monitor. I was having mild contractions about 10 min apart, but was not dilated at all. She said she wanted to monitor me for a bit, but I would probably end up going home. Talk about heartbreak... I was on the monitor for a couple of hours, and she rechecked to see once more that my water had no broken. She kept insinuating that I peed myself, but I swear it wasn't urine! haha!
SO then we had to go to the waiting room and tell our friends and family that it was a false alarm, but thanks for spending your night up here waiting on this news! :( I was devastated. We went home around 5 or so, and felt so empty as we boarded the elevator, empty handed. I thought I was the only one taking it hard, but Brian was pretty upset too. We had gotten so excited and nervous and our adrenaline was pumping at the thought of meeting our little boy that we have waited all this time for. It was very hard but I finally accepted that God has perfect timing and this was not the right time. Mav still needs to stay in his mommy and when he is ready he will come. So my next appointment is Friday morning...
Of course, she told us to come on in. So I took a shower, we called our family and close friends, and off we went. Freaking out the whole while. :) Well, long story short, they checked us in, examined me, determined that my water had NOT broken, and put me on the contraction monitor. I was having mild contractions about 10 min apart, but was not dilated at all. She said she wanted to monitor me for a bit, but I would probably end up going home. Talk about heartbreak... I was on the monitor for a couple of hours, and she rechecked to see once more that my water had no broken. She kept insinuating that I peed myself, but I swear it wasn't urine! haha!
SO then we had to go to the waiting room and tell our friends and family that it was a false alarm, but thanks for spending your night up here waiting on this news! :( I was devastated. We went home around 5 or so, and felt so empty as we boarded the elevator, empty handed. I thought I was the only one taking it hard, but Brian was pretty upset too. We had gotten so excited and nervous and our adrenaline was pumping at the thought of meeting our little boy that we have waited all this time for. It was very hard but I finally accepted that God has perfect timing and this was not the right time. Mav still needs to stay in his mommy and when he is ready he will come. So my next appointment is Friday morning...
Friday, February 18, 2011
Blessings
Our appointment went great yesterday! His heart rate was 150, and I am measuring on time. He is still head down, and has already dropped! Dr. Virtue could feel his head, which freaked Brian out just a bit haha! I start going weekly now, and have been instructed on how to know when labor begins...scary!!!
I also had my church shower last night, which was so much fun. We were once again blessed beyond measure with all of the nice things that we received. Mav is already so loved by all of our friends and it is such a blessing!
Hopefully we will go soon to get the things we still need. I am under strict orders (by my hubby :)) to get the nursery together this weekend! I have so much to wash and fold and hang and put away! But I can't wait! :) I will try to remember to post pics once it's all done.
I also had my church shower last night, which was so much fun. We were once again blessed beyond measure with all of the nice things that we received. Mav is already so loved by all of our friends and it is such a blessing!
Hopefully we will go soon to get the things we still need. I am under strict orders (by my hubby :)) to get the nursery together this weekend! I have so much to wash and fold and hang and put away! But I can't wait! :) I will try to remember to post pics once it's all done.
Thursday, February 17, 2011
Getting close!
I admit, I am guilty once again for not updating as often as I should! So, here goes another long post to get you up to date :)
Brian and I took the hospital tour at St. Vincents on the 1st of this month. It was so much fun and truly brought things into perspective for me. As we walked the halls and were shown where we would come, and what would take place, etc, I began to picture the day or night that we actually go to the hospital to meet our long awaited precious blessing. It really made me anticipate it all the more!
Then, on February 8th, we met with our pediatrician, Dr. Thornton. Brian went to him as a child, and was SO excited that we were going to see him. I was very impressed and have come to love him already. I can see his passion for kids, as well as for us as parents. I think we made a great choice and I think he will take good care of our baby and future babies!
Next on the agenda was my ROC appointment, on Feb 9th. Granny came this time, and loved being able to see her little great grandson moving all around :) The ultrasound tech and dr both commented on the size of his head...they said it's rather large. Awesome! Just what I want to hear! LOL But the good news was that his heart is perfectly healthy and the dr was very pleased with his progress. As he walked out, he said, "See you back in 4 weeks IF you're still pregnant!" Wait, what?! IF?! So, now we wait and see what Maverick decides to do with his last 30-something days!
We had our maternity pics with J & J Photography on the 12th! These were so much fun. We are really super pleased with their work, and we have only seen 3 pics so far! I can't wait to get the rest and share them! My church shower is tonight and I am so excited! I absolutely love my church family, and there are so many of them that have poured out prayers for our sweet little boy. They all hold a special place in my heart. We are blessed to have such love and friendship. I also have my weekly checkup today at NF Ob/Gyn, with Dr. Virtue! Yes, I said weekly! I start going every week after today :)
Last night, I think I was having contractions. I had 2 of them within 15 minutes. Let me tell you, NOT fun. I was sitting in choir when the first one hit, and I could not move. I just held on and waited it out. Everything got really tight and it felt like a horrible cramping. When it stopped, I left. As I was driving home, 10-15 min later, another one hit. I thought I would have to pull over! But, I made it home safely, got in bed with my feet propped, and drank lots of water. I didn't have anymore, luckily. I was not enjoying those! But, I am going to see if the dr will check me today and see if I am dilated the least little bit! So that's exciting :)
I will try to update in the next few days on what we find out! Stay tuned...
Brian and I took the hospital tour at St. Vincents on the 1st of this month. It was so much fun and truly brought things into perspective for me. As we walked the halls and were shown where we would come, and what would take place, etc, I began to picture the day or night that we actually go to the hospital to meet our long awaited precious blessing. It really made me anticipate it all the more!
Then, on February 8th, we met with our pediatrician, Dr. Thornton. Brian went to him as a child, and was SO excited that we were going to see him. I was very impressed and have come to love him already. I can see his passion for kids, as well as for us as parents. I think we made a great choice and I think he will take good care of our baby and future babies!
Next on the agenda was my ROC appointment, on Feb 9th. Granny came this time, and loved being able to see her little great grandson moving all around :) The ultrasound tech and dr both commented on the size of his head...they said it's rather large. Awesome! Just what I want to hear! LOL But the good news was that his heart is perfectly healthy and the dr was very pleased with his progress. As he walked out, he said, "See you back in 4 weeks IF you're still pregnant!" Wait, what?! IF?! So, now we wait and see what Maverick decides to do with his last 30-something days!
We had our maternity pics with J & J Photography on the 12th! These were so much fun. We are really super pleased with their work, and we have only seen 3 pics so far! I can't wait to get the rest and share them! My church shower is tonight and I am so excited! I absolutely love my church family, and there are so many of them that have poured out prayers for our sweet little boy. They all hold a special place in my heart. We are blessed to have such love and friendship. I also have my weekly checkup today at NF Ob/Gyn, with Dr. Virtue! Yes, I said weekly! I start going every week after today :)
Last night, I think I was having contractions. I had 2 of them within 15 minutes. Let me tell you, NOT fun. I was sitting in choir when the first one hit, and I could not move. I just held on and waited it out. Everything got really tight and it felt like a horrible cramping. When it stopped, I left. As I was driving home, 10-15 min later, another one hit. I thought I would have to pull over! But, I made it home safely, got in bed with my feet propped, and drank lots of water. I didn't have anymore, luckily. I was not enjoying those! But, I am going to see if the dr will check me today and see if I am dilated the least little bit! So that's exciting :)
I will try to update in the next few days on what we find out! Stay tuned...
Thursday, January 27, 2011
Answered Prayers
After the ROC apt about Mav's heart, I went on a strict no caffeine diet for a week to see if it would correct the problem. I had a horrible migraine for 2 days, and had to end up going to my dr because my blood pressure went up due to the headache. She gave me some meds and it brought it back under control.
I went back to the ROC on the 19th and they said his heart was "beating beautifully!" The dr told me to keep doing whatever I was doing and he would see me back in 3 weeks to check on it again. I wasn't very thrilled that I can't have caffeine anymore, but I will do whatever it takes to keep him healthy! I am so thankful that God heard our prayers and allowed his heart to fix itself without any complications.
We got the crib and changing table together! Allen and Momma T came over and we all had an entertaining time getting them together. I thought this might make everything more real, but it still seems so far away and I don't think I fully fathom that I am going to have a son. It's crazy, but a good kind of crazy. I am getting pretty miserable and big, and cannot wait until March! Mav should be growing a 1/2 lb a week from now until delivery time! So we shall see where all of his 1/2 lbs decide to go...because I frankly don't know how he has much room to grow in there!
I broke down and decided to sign up for birthing classes. I originally decided, along with Brian, that we didn't need to take them. What's the use? They will just give us a whole lot of information that we really don't need and I will just get overwhelmed. Well, I had a change of heart and decided that it was probably best if we took them, just to be prepared. Plus, I want the experience and I think we will have fun :)
Stay tuned for more updates as Maverick Paul continues to grow and prepares to make his grand entrance into the world very soon!
I went back to the ROC on the 19th and they said his heart was "beating beautifully!" The dr told me to keep doing whatever I was doing and he would see me back in 3 weeks to check on it again. I wasn't very thrilled that I can't have caffeine anymore, but I will do whatever it takes to keep him healthy! I am so thankful that God heard our prayers and allowed his heart to fix itself without any complications.
We got the crib and changing table together! Allen and Momma T came over and we all had an entertaining time getting them together. I thought this might make everything more real, but it still seems so far away and I don't think I fully fathom that I am going to have a son. It's crazy, but a good kind of crazy. I am getting pretty miserable and big, and cannot wait until March! Mav should be growing a 1/2 lb a week from now until delivery time! So we shall see where all of his 1/2 lbs decide to go...because I frankly don't know how he has much room to grow in there!
I broke down and decided to sign up for birthing classes. I originally decided, along with Brian, that we didn't need to take them. What's the use? They will just give us a whole lot of information that we really don't need and I will just get overwhelmed. Well, I had a change of heart and decided that it was probably best if we took them, just to be prepared. Plus, I want the experience and I think we will have fun :)
Stay tuned for more updates as Maverick Paul continues to grow and prepares to make his grand entrance into the world very soon!
Wednesday, January 12, 2011
Mav's heart...
So I went back to the ROC yesterday for a routine ultrasound, just to make sure he is still growing good. He is growing right on time, but they found some skips in his little heartbeat. The doctor wants to see me back in one week, to see if it corrects itself. I cannot have ANY caffeine, to see if this helps. If not, he will want to see me more frequently to keep an eye on Mav's heart. The doctor assured me it's nothing to worry about...yet. However, if it keeps up, it could cause his heart to send messages to his brain that his heart is stopping briefly, which could cause him to freak out and his heart to beat way too fast. I am trying to just give it to God because He is the great physician and He knows the plans He has for us. Please just keep little Maverick in your prayers! I will update next week when I know more :)
Wednesday, December 29, 2010
Thursday, December 9, 2010
The latest and greatest
I went to the doctor on Tuesday and everything looks good so far! Dr. Long was trying to get a heartbeat and Mav was being very active and wouldn't stay still for very long! That's my boy...
I go back on January 4th, then I think I start going every 2 weeks! Wow...the time has sure flown by. I cannot believe I am 6 months pregnant. March is so close I can smell it! I did have a scare the other night. I was in a good sleep when I was awakened by a sharp pain in my lower stomach/side/lower back. It was so painful, but only lasted for 2-3 seconds. However, it kept coming back every 30-45 seconds. All I could think was, it is way too early for contractions! It lasted for about an hour and I haven't felt it since. I am thinking it was probably Braxton Hicks, but who knows. Just glad it stopped!
Our house buying experience is moving right along as well. We should **hopefully** close next week! I can't wait to start decorating little man's room. Other than that, nothing has been going on around here!
I go back on January 4th, then I think I start going every 2 weeks! Wow...the time has sure flown by. I cannot believe I am 6 months pregnant. March is so close I can smell it! I did have a scare the other night. I was in a good sleep when I was awakened by a sharp pain in my lower stomach/side/lower back. It was so painful, but only lasted for 2-3 seconds. However, it kept coming back every 30-45 seconds. All I could think was, it is way too early for contractions! It lasted for about an hour and I haven't felt it since. I am thinking it was probably Braxton Hicks, but who knows. Just glad it stopped!
Our house buying experience is moving right along as well. We should **hopefully** close next week! I can't wait to start decorating little man's room. Other than that, nothing has been going on around here!
Thursday, November 18, 2010
Oops!
I have totally been a slacker in the blogging area, and I am so sorry!
Maverick is now 14 oz...almost a whole pound! He is moving all the time and I am loving it. I cannot wait to hold my precious baby boy. I am over 1/2 there now!!! That is so hard to believe though. This first 1/2 flew by. It seems like I literally just found out we were going to be parents.
Lots has happened around the Stiles residence since last post. We put in an offer on a house and it was accepted! So we have been singing a million papers, and gathering our life history. We are now just waiting to hear back on when we can start inspections. It's such an exciting time in our lives right now! God is so good and I am seeing more and more every day that His timing is perfect. In the last 6 months, we found out I am pregnant, Brian was blessed with a job, and now we are almost homeowners. Everything we have prayed for and all in the perfect order from God.
We also have a cruise planned for the end of this month! We leave a week from Saturday and couldn't be more ready! It was a huge fiasco at first, but it all worked out. Carnival has a dumb rule that expectant mothers cannot be more than 24 completed weeks in their pregnancy, the day they get OFF the ship. We would have been getting off the 11th, which was the very day I turned 25 weeks. Carnival would not accept that, so we had to spend more money, move the cruise, get a letter from my dr saying I am fit for travel, and then we were good to go. I was so upset but it all ended up working out and we will be gone for my bday so that's exciting!!! We need this time as we close in on our last days as just Brian and Jamie. Come March, we will be Brian, Jamie, and Maverick! Don't get me wrong, we cannot wait. We just want to cherish this time together because we will never be at this point in our lives again.
Can't wait to meet our sweet Maverick Paul!!!
Maverick is now 14 oz...almost a whole pound! He is moving all the time and I am loving it. I cannot wait to hold my precious baby boy. I am over 1/2 there now!!! That is so hard to believe though. This first 1/2 flew by. It seems like I literally just found out we were going to be parents.
Lots has happened around the Stiles residence since last post. We put in an offer on a house and it was accepted! So we have been singing a million papers, and gathering our life history. We are now just waiting to hear back on when we can start inspections. It's such an exciting time in our lives right now! God is so good and I am seeing more and more every day that His timing is perfect. In the last 6 months, we found out I am pregnant, Brian was blessed with a job, and now we are almost homeowners. Everything we have prayed for and all in the perfect order from God.
We also have a cruise planned for the end of this month! We leave a week from Saturday and couldn't be more ready! It was a huge fiasco at first, but it all worked out. Carnival has a dumb rule that expectant mothers cannot be more than 24 completed weeks in their pregnancy, the day they get OFF the ship. We would have been getting off the 11th, which was the very day I turned 25 weeks. Carnival would not accept that, so we had to spend more money, move the cruise, get a letter from my dr saying I am fit for travel, and then we were good to go. I was so upset but it all ended up working out and we will be gone for my bday so that's exciting!!! We need this time as we close in on our last days as just Brian and Jamie. Come March, we will be Brian, Jamie, and Maverick! Don't get me wrong, we cannot wait. We just want to cherish this time together because we will never be at this point in our lives again.
Can't wait to meet our sweet Maverick Paul!!!
Tuesday, October 26, 2010
Scobee...
As I woke up this morning, I was just laying in bed when I felt what I knew was a kick from my little man! So, I waited before saying anything, just to make sure. Sure enough, he gave me another little kick, Scobee style, assuring me it was him. I called Brian over to feel, but of course he stopped and hasn't kicked again since. LOL! I was so happy to finally know for sure it was my baby moving around! Such a precious miracle :)
We have also decided on a name for our sweet baby boy! Maverick Paul Stiles. Funny story behind this choice. I was at my parents' house one day, with my sister Mandi and her family. My brother in-law, Rick, said we should name him MaveRICK, from Top Gun. I laughed and quickly said, no! Later that night, I was laughing about it and telling Brian what Rick mentioned. Brian immediately looked at me with big brown eyes, and said, "That's it! Maverick Paul!" I was like, are you kidding me?! It was a joke! But he fell in love with the idea. He said it was a "strong manly name, and our kid would be the coolest ever if we gave him that name." I was still against it. It took me a whole week to finally start liking it, then I found out the meaning of Maverick: "Wildly independent; does not conform easily." I don't know about you, but I think that's a pretty sweet meaning for a name! From that point on, I fell in love with it. It didn't help that Brian was already referring to him as Maverick, so it just kind of seems like it was already his name. We have gotten a lot of "opinions" about what people think, but he is our son and we are very happy with our name choice for him. :)
My next appointment is on November 12th, only 2 weeks away :)
The morning/afternoon/night/all-the-time sickness is starting to wear off a little, thank God! I still have my days, but I can definitely tell it's getting better. Can't wait to see my little dude again!
We have also decided on a name for our sweet baby boy! Maverick Paul Stiles. Funny story behind this choice. I was at my parents' house one day, with my sister Mandi and her family. My brother in-law, Rick, said we should name him MaveRICK, from Top Gun. I laughed and quickly said, no! Later that night, I was laughing about it and telling Brian what Rick mentioned. Brian immediately looked at me with big brown eyes, and said, "That's it! Maverick Paul!" I was like, are you kidding me?! It was a joke! But he fell in love with the idea. He said it was a "strong manly name, and our kid would be the coolest ever if we gave him that name." I was still against it. It took me a whole week to finally start liking it, then I found out the meaning of Maverick: "Wildly independent; does not conform easily." I don't know about you, but I think that's a pretty sweet meaning for a name! From that point on, I fell in love with it. It didn't help that Brian was already referring to him as Maverick, so it just kind of seems like it was already his name. We have gotten a lot of "opinions" about what people think, but he is our son and we are very happy with our name choice for him. :)
My next appointment is on November 12th, only 2 weeks away :)
The morning/afternoon/night/all-the-time sickness is starting to wear off a little, thank God! I still have my days, but I can definitely tell it's getting better. Can't wait to see my little dude again!
Wednesday, October 13, 2010
And the winner is..........
IT'S A SWEET BABY BOY!!! :) I know, you're confused as to how I already know what it is, huh? Well, we scheduled an ultrasound that no one knew about, and surprised the socks off of everyone when we called to tell them about our baby boy!!! It was so much fun and we are SO blessed and happy to know that there is a little boy baking inside my tummy! I have to admit--this whole time I was 95% certain it was a girl. Why? I have absolutely no idea. Just an instinct I had. That was WAY wrong! I hadn't even thought about, what if it's a boy? But as soon as she said, "There's a little boy in there!" my heart just leaped for joy! I thought, me and my boys. I just know it's going to be so much fun and cannot wait to meet our prince charming! Brian was adorable...this whole time he said he did not care either way what we had. As soon as she said it was a boy, his face lit up like the SUN! He is so happy and can't wait to teach our son baseball, football, music, the BEATLES, etc. All the important things in life, of course. ;)
I still get to go to my regular ob for a check up and to hear the heartbeat tomorrow. My mother in-law is coming since Brian will have to work. I am excited and will update tomorrow!
I still get to go to my regular ob for a check up and to hear the heartbeat tomorrow. My mother in-law is coming since Brian will have to work. I am excited and will update tomorrow!
Tuesday, October 12, 2010
Today!!!
Today is the day! I have to be thankful and give God the glory; He has given me such a peace about this! I am so very excited to have the opportunity to see our sweet little baby today. We are hoping we can find out the sex of the baby, and all of the other stuff is just a plus. Whatever the outcome may be, we are praising God because it will all be a part of His beautiful plan that He has made for our family. It is such a relief to experience this peace and understanding. He is so good to allow us that! I will definitely be updating after my appointment!
Tuesday, October 5, 2010
Enough is enough!
I know you all are probably tired of hearing me complain. You may even be tempted to think, "Hey lady! Be thankful you are pregnant! This is, afterall, what you asked for!" I know, I know. But this sickness is really starting to get the best of me. I keep telling myself that any day now, I will wake up and feel like a new person and be ready to start enjoying my pregnancy. But, day after day, I find myself perched by the toilet, unwillingly giving up whatever food I was able to eat moments before. Although I would love to feel good again after 9 weeks of this, I am also concerned for the baby. The dr keeps telling me it's okay, it's normal, you will turn the corner soon, etc. But, I am feeling discouraged...I am 15 weeks now and into my 2nd trimester. But, I will not lose hope! I just want my baby to get the nutrients he/she needs, and that cannot happen if I'm throwing up everything I put in my mouth!
Please continue to pray for me as I face each day during this pregnancy, and pray for my sweet baby's health! Thank you in advance. :)
Please continue to pray for me as I face each day during this pregnancy, and pray for my sweet baby's health! Thank you in advance. :)
Monday, September 27, 2010
Blessed
We officially have godparents for our sweet precious baby!!! Brian and I had never really talked about who we would want to be in charge of raising our kids should something happen to the both of us. The first time we even mentioned it, we both already had a couple in mind. We decided to say it at the same time, to see if we were thinking about the same couple. We indeed were! What a comfort to know we were on the same page in this area without even having to think about it! Adam and Amy Page are such good friends of ours. Brian and Adam have grown up together, being the best of friends. I met Adam and Amy about 4 years ago, when Brian and I started dating. Amy and I had an instant friendship and I treasure her so much. Adam and Amy got married back in July of this year, and Brian and I were both honored to be in the wedding. We could not think of any better couple to be parents and to love our kids and show them Christ’s love.
Last night after church, we decided to ask them about taking this role in our baby’s life, as well as tell them our news and ask them to pray. When we first asked them, we asked that they take some time and pray about it, as it is a huge responsibility. They agreed and said they would talk and pray and let us know. We then told them our news, and we all just cried and prayed together. We made it clear that our tears were not for sadness, and we did not want them to pray for any changes. They agreed and encouraged us so much. By the end of the conversation, Adam looked at Amy and said, “I think I can speak for both of us when I say that there is no talking needed; we would be honored to be a part of this baby’s life.” We looked at Amy for confirmation and she sweetly nodded and then just started crying again. We hugged for several minutes and she told me how she would always love my baby as her own and how she could not wait to hold him/her and she would always be there for the baby.
Wow…are we blessed or what?! I want to cry just writing this. Adam and Amy are such a huge blessing to us and I am so thankful God brought them into our lives, as well as brought them together in marriage. They are doing such big things to glorify God, and I know He has huge plans for them. It’s comforting to know that our baby (and future babies) will be in wonderful hands should something ever happen to Brian and me.
Last night after church, we decided to ask them about taking this role in our baby’s life, as well as tell them our news and ask them to pray. When we first asked them, we asked that they take some time and pray about it, as it is a huge responsibility. They agreed and said they would talk and pray and let us know. We then told them our news, and we all just cried and prayed together. We made it clear that our tears were not for sadness, and we did not want them to pray for any changes. They agreed and encouraged us so much. By the end of the conversation, Adam looked at Amy and said, “I think I can speak for both of us when I say that there is no talking needed; we would be honored to be a part of this baby’s life.” We looked at Amy for confirmation and she sweetly nodded and then just started crying again. We hugged for several minutes and she told me how she would always love my baby as her own and how she could not wait to hold him/her and she would always be there for the baby.
Wow…are we blessed or what?! I want to cry just writing this. Adam and Amy are such a huge blessing to us and I am so thankful God brought them into our lives, as well as brought them together in marriage. They are doing such big things to glorify God, and I know He has huge plans for them. It’s comforting to know that our baby (and future babies) will be in wonderful hands should something ever happen to Brian and me.
The most amazing pair of pants...
Yep. I bought them yesterday. I decided it was time to look for at least work pants, since the rubber band trick is not comfortable anymore. I didn't feel like going all the way to Target for a Belly Band, so I settled for Ross. The only pair of dress pants I could find in a maternity size small were a pair of brown ones with a stretchy panel. I tried them on and almost melted. They were heavenly! This little panel thing should be manditory in ALL pants! I was so excited because they were a must-have and the price tag said only $7.99!!! It does NOT get better than that. Well, I decided to look for black pants but I figured I would just find a regular juniors pair in a size larger than I normally wear. Bad idea. I usually wear a 5. So I grabbed a 7. Would not even button. I took a deep breath and told myself that a 9 would be perfect. I walked back into the dressing room, excited to see how they looked on me. Well, about the time I pulled them over my hips, I realized that these suckers were not going to button either! Needlesstosay, I gave up and decided that either a belly band or maternity pants were all I will ever try on again until this baby comes out!
I was able to get a few cute tops for work, so I was pretty happy with that. I will go to Target next weekend and see about the ole Band! It should allow me to wear my normal pants for a while, and you just wear the band over it so no one sees your pants are actually unbuttoned. Pretty nifty idea, if ya ask me ;)
I was able to get a few cute tops for work, so I was pretty happy with that. I will go to Target next weekend and see about the ole Band! It should allow me to wear my normal pants for a while, and you just wear the band over it so no one sees your pants are actually unbuttoned. Pretty nifty idea, if ya ask me ;)
Wednesday, September 22, 2010
The call...
Today, I received a phone call from Ms. Gaye at North Florida OB/Gyn. She wanted to let me know that the results were in from our first trimester screening. I had all expectations for her to say that everything looked normal and healthy and she would see us back in October. However, the conversation went slightly different. She was very soft and gentle and chose her words very carefully. She let me know that according to the baby’s measurements and the results of my blood test, the chances of the baby having Down’s syndrome were slightly higher than normal. As soon as she said this, my heart stopped. I was immediately hurting for my sweet baby and was letting my mind wander to think worse things that could be wrong and how my baby would hurt. It is absolutely amazing how protective you can be over someone you have never met, felt, or even seen. Well, I guess we have seen the baby and we have seen it moving around and looking like an actual baby and it just makes everything so much more real when you experience that.
So she went on to explain that the chances were still very low, but higher than normal. In a woman over 35, the chance is 1 in 220. For me, it’s 1 in 120. Still less than a percent and we know God is not a God of statistics. Anyhow, Ms. Gaye went on to tell me the next step in this process, and how we needed to schedule an ultrasound for around 16 weeks. At this point in the pregnancy, they should be able to better determine the possibility of this happening. However, if they still cannot confirm, they then suggest amniocentesis. Not sure how many of you know about this, but it increases your chances of miscarriage. I told her absolutely not. We will love this baby no matter what, and I am not putting my baby’s life at risk just to know whether or not he/she will have this genetic difference.
Since that conversation, we have been in prayer and have asked a few close friends for prayer as well. We don’t want prayer for things to change, but rather for us to keep the joy we have and also for nothing more serious to be wrong. I think I can speak for Brian and me both when I say that if God has chosen to bless us with a child with Down’s, then obviously He entrusts us with a huge responsibility and sees us fit to love and care for this child. That being said, we want to rejoice in this! We have not told our families, as we don’t want them worrying. If we do indeed get confirmation, we will share the news at that time. Until then, we will be in constant prayer for our sweet unborn baby and pray that he/she keeps growing and getting strong! We should find out in early November if it is a he or a she, but I am hoping that they can tell us at the 16 week ultrasound! It is scheduled for October 12th, which is so close!!! :)
I will leave you with a passage that we studied Wednesday night...how appropriate and amazing that God would give us this encouragement on the day we found out this news.
“Count it all joy, my brothers, when you meet trials of various kinds, for you know that the testing of your faith produces steadfastness. And let steadfastness have its full effect, that you may be perfect and complete, lacking in nothing.”
-James 1:2-4
So she went on to explain that the chances were still very low, but higher than normal. In a woman over 35, the chance is 1 in 220. For me, it’s 1 in 120. Still less than a percent and we know God is not a God of statistics. Anyhow, Ms. Gaye went on to tell me the next step in this process, and how we needed to schedule an ultrasound for around 16 weeks. At this point in the pregnancy, they should be able to better determine the possibility of this happening. However, if they still cannot confirm, they then suggest amniocentesis. Not sure how many of you know about this, but it increases your chances of miscarriage. I told her absolutely not. We will love this baby no matter what, and I am not putting my baby’s life at risk just to know whether or not he/she will have this genetic difference.
Since that conversation, we have been in prayer and have asked a few close friends for prayer as well. We don’t want prayer for things to change, but rather for us to keep the joy we have and also for nothing more serious to be wrong. I think I can speak for Brian and me both when I say that if God has chosen to bless us with a child with Down’s, then obviously He entrusts us with a huge responsibility and sees us fit to love and care for this child. That being said, we want to rejoice in this! We have not told our families, as we don’t want them worrying. If we do indeed get confirmation, we will share the news at that time. Until then, we will be in constant prayer for our sweet unborn baby and pray that he/she keeps growing and getting strong! We should find out in early November if it is a he or a she, but I am hoping that they can tell us at the 16 week ultrasound! It is scheduled for October 12th, which is so close!!! :)
I will leave you with a passage that we studied Wednesday night...how appropriate and amazing that God would give us this encouragement on the day we found out this news.
“Count it all joy, my brothers, when you meet trials of various kinds, for you know that the testing of your faith produces steadfastness. And let steadfastness have its full effect, that you may be perfect and complete, lacking in nothing.”
-James 1:2-4
Sunday, September 19, 2010
Praising the Lord for the 2nd trimester!!!
We had our 2nd ultrasound last week! Everything looked great and our baby showed off for us again. I just love being able to see what's going on inside of me!!! It's definitely reassuring to see our baby and to see it move all around while we watch. Baby was facing my back, so our pic shows the baby face down. However, you can definitely see a head and profile!!! We also got to see the little hands go up to the face again and again. At one point, the baby even stretched out for us! It was amazing :)
As for the screening, we will get results back in about 6 weeks. Dr. Long said everything looked healthy and the heart rate is about 160 bpm. According to the old wivestale, we may have a girl on our hands. But we will know for sure in about 7-8 weeks (if baby cooperates!!!). We have been throwing around several names but haven't made a final decision. A few girl names we like are Maelynn, Mylee, Karlie and Presley. For boys, we like Carson, Conner, Carter, and Marshall. I think once we know what it is we will have an easier time choosing!
Here is a 12 week belly bump pic...baby is growing!!!
Yesterday marked the first day of my 2nd trimester! I am so thankful that we are out of the critical 1st trimester. The chances for miscarriage now go way down, even though it's always a possibility. I should be able to feel the baby move in about 3 weeks, which I have so been looking forward to! I still sometimes find myself in awe that I am pregnant...it's weird when you cannot feel anything inside of you. The sickness did not leave with the first trimester, unfortunately. I am praying that it will fade in the next few days. I had a really bad day yesterday, when I attempted to go to an FSU game with Brian. I made it almost to the end of the 1st quarter then literally almost passed out. :( Today was a little better, but I still got sick twice. I pray that it passes soon so that I can make sure my baby is getting all the good stuff he/she needs.
My next appointment is in 4 weeks, where we will just do a check up and hear the heart beat again (which sounds like a miracle!!!). Until then, I will leave you all with a picture of Baby Stiles :)
As for the screening, we will get results back in about 6 weeks. Dr. Long said everything looked healthy and the heart rate is about 160 bpm. According to the old wivestale, we may have a girl on our hands. But we will know for sure in about 7-8 weeks (if baby cooperates!!!). We have been throwing around several names but haven't made a final decision. A few girl names we like are Maelynn, Mylee, Karlie and Presley. For boys, we like Carson, Conner, Carter, and Marshall. I think once we know what it is we will have an easier time choosing!
Here is a 12 week belly bump pic...baby is growing!!!
Yesterday marked the first day of my 2nd trimester! I am so thankful that we are out of the critical 1st trimester. The chances for miscarriage now go way down, even though it's always a possibility. I should be able to feel the baby move in about 3 weeks, which I have so been looking forward to! I still sometimes find myself in awe that I am pregnant...it's weird when you cannot feel anything inside of you. The sickness did not leave with the first trimester, unfortunately. I am praying that it will fade in the next few days. I had a really bad day yesterday, when I attempted to go to an FSU game with Brian. I made it almost to the end of the 1st quarter then literally almost passed out. :( Today was a little better, but I still got sick twice. I pray that it passes soon so that I can make sure my baby is getting all the good stuff he/she needs.
Wednesday, September 8, 2010
Lately...
It's been 2 weeks since my last post...I have GOT to get better at this! Well, not much has changed with the pregnancy. The nausea is still hanging around, but I have not been actually throwing up as much. Good for the baby, still rough on me. I can deal though. :) I am now 11 weeks, and get to see my baby again on the 16th of this month! That's only one week away!!!
We went to my sister, Mandi's house this past weekend. She gave me all kinds of goodies! We got a glider and matching ottoman, high chair, play mat, and 3 big boxes of maternity clothes. And as if that were not enough, my sister surprised me by giving us a gift card to get our crib and changing table!!!!!!!!!!! I was so relieved, as that was a big purchase that we were going to have to make in a few months. After much hassle with Target and dealing with recalls and sold out items, we finally were able to order the crib today. I cannot wait to get it!!! Brian moved in all the baby stuff to our spare room, which is currently his music room. I think it finally hit him that we are going to have a baby! He had to move a lot of his stuff around and just stood there staring. However, he said our band is about to start forming with it's first member arriving in March ;) He thinks "he" will play the guitar, I say "she" will be a drummer. Haha! Guess we will see who is right in about 9 weeks! It can't come soon enough!
So that's about it right now! My baby bump is starting to bump! I can no longer even think about buttoning most of my work pants, but the rubber band trick is doing it's job for now. ;)
We went to my sister, Mandi's house this past weekend. She gave me all kinds of goodies! We got a glider and matching ottoman, high chair, play mat, and 3 big boxes of maternity clothes. And as if that were not enough, my sister surprised me by giving us a gift card to get our crib and changing table!!!!!!!!!!! I was so relieved, as that was a big purchase that we were going to have to make in a few months. After much hassle with Target and dealing with recalls and sold out items, we finally were able to order the crib today. I cannot wait to get it!!! Brian moved in all the baby stuff to our spare room, which is currently his music room. I think it finally hit him that we are going to have a baby! He had to move a lot of his stuff around and just stood there staring. However, he said our band is about to start forming with it's first member arriving in March ;) He thinks "he" will play the guitar, I say "she" will be a drummer. Haha! Guess we will see who is right in about 9 weeks! It can't come soon enough!
So that's about it right now! My baby bump is starting to bump! I can no longer even think about buttoning most of my work pants, but the rubber band trick is doing it's job for now. ;)
Monday, August 23, 2010
Catching up...
Thursday was a bad day for me. I vomited about 5 times total the whole day, and each time it was just water. Water. No matter what I ate or drank, my body was rejecting water. Well, of course this means dehydration. So you know where I ended up Friday morning. Laying on a table at NF Ob/Gyn as they hooked me up to an IV and pumped some fluids into this dehydrated body! I had lost 4 lbs in 2 days, and the doctor was not happy. Of course, he knew it was out of my control, but also wanted to fix it as soon as possible. We got there around 9 and did not leave until at least 2:30. I am not sure of the exact time, as I was very drugged by the time we left. He put some Phenergen in the IV, which knocks me out almost instantly. I had every intention on going to work after my IV, until he snuck that part in. Brian and I even drove separate, but ended up leaving my car until later that night when he and his step dad came back for it.
Needless to say, I slept the whole day Friday, and most of Saturday. I was starting to feel a little better, then woke with a cold yesterday morning. Does it ever end?! Although I must admit, I would fight a cold every day for the rest of the pregnancy if this nausea would just leave me alone!!! I kept everything down for the most part all weekend, until last night. We went to a friend's house to celebrate his birthday, and his grandpa had made homemade icecream for the special occasion. Yep. Home. Made. Icecream. It was simply amazing and the coldness felt wonderful going down. We left shortly after eating, and as soon as we walked in the house, I had to make a run for the bathroom. There went all my homemade icecream. :(
I am trying to remain positive and know that I will be able to enjoy this soon. I pray that it passes quickly! I am still thinking this baby may be an only child though... ;)
Needless to say, I slept the whole day Friday, and most of Saturday. I was starting to feel a little better, then woke with a cold yesterday morning. Does it ever end?! Although I must admit, I would fight a cold every day for the rest of the pregnancy if this nausea would just leave me alone!!! I kept everything down for the most part all weekend, until last night. We went to a friend's house to celebrate his birthday, and his grandpa had made homemade icecream for the special occasion. Yep. Home. Made. Icecream. It was simply amazing and the coldness felt wonderful going down. We left shortly after eating, and as soon as we walked in the house, I had to make a run for the bathroom. There went all my homemade icecream. :(
I am trying to remain positive and know that I will be able to enjoy this soon. I pray that it passes quickly! I am still thinking this baby may be an only child though... ;)
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)