Showing posts with label Eli. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Eli. Show all posts
Wednesday, February 08, 2012
Parenthood
Friday, October 30, 2009
Ummm...hello
Tap Tap Tap...
Is this thing on?
Life has gotten incredibly busy and blogging is one of the things I've let slip. I miss the process of writing and I miss having a record of what's going on in our lives, so, it's time to dust off the keyboard and start again. I know there are a few out there that will rejoice (hi Mom and Mom-In-Law). Let's hope I don't fall off the bandwagon again.
Where to begin...
I haven't kept up with my monthly letters to Eli, so I'll throw out some of the highlights over the last couple months.
6 months - 16 lbs 10 oz
At the beginning of this month Eli started sitting by himself. We drove across the country to visit all the family in Colorado. Eli met his Grandma and Grandpa H for the first time, along with many of his aunts and uncles. He also pulled himself to standing for the first time during this trip. Unfortunately mommy and daddy were off playing, so we missed it, but Nana and Papa got to witness his trick. He tolerated the traveling really well but once we were home didn't want to get within a foot of his carseat. During this trip, Eli exhibited the most seperation anxiety we've seen from him. He wanted mom and dad a lot, but grandparents still got some time with him. A good thing, since all three sets got to spend time with their grandkids!
7 months -17 lbs 12 oz
Things were pretty status quo this month. Eli started enjoying food a lot more and decided he was ready to wean. I tried to force the issue for a couple weeks, but then decided I was ready for that step too. He seemed happy with the switch, and I'll admit, I liked getting my body back.
8 months - 18lbs 11 oz
Right as he turned 8 months old, Eli started crawling and pulling himself to standing on everything. It took him about a week of the tummy crawl before he moved into the triangle crawl, which lasted a couple more days. By the end of the month he was proficient in both crawling and standing. He also got his 3rd tooth and about a week later his 4th and saw the beach for the first time. Eli, and family, spent a week in Charleston, SC with Nana, Papa and all the aunts and uncles. He liked the sand much more than the water, we had a hard time keeping it out of his mouth. He also decided to wake up before Dawn most mornings, which meant dad or mom (but mostly dad) got an early morning walk on the beach.
9 months - 18 lbs - 14th percentile for weight, 26 1/2" - 6% for height, head circumference 46cm - 70%
At 9 months, after discovering new skills and having croup twice in month, Eli's weight dropped a bit. He's a peanut with a big brain. What little separation anxiety that was seen a few months ago is long gone and he's a happy, social baby. He smiles all the time and loves to play with anyone who looks at him. We get tons of compliments about what a cute and smiley baby he is...maybe that's where his big head comes from? He's already discovered an affinity for fruit over veggies, and of all my kids, is probably the least open to new tastes as this age. He loves to be outside, and if Makenna leaves the back door open, he beelines for the back yard. Speaking of Makenna, Eli started fighting with her this month. He's able to go after toys that interest him now and she isn't always willing to share. It's so funny to see a 9 month old yelling at his big sister, I know it won't be funny for long but for now it makes us laugh.
I could write all day about our sweet baby, but these few updates bring us to current time. To the grandparents, I promise to try harder to keep the updates coming in a timely fashion.
Is this thing on?
Life has gotten incredibly busy and blogging is one of the things I've let slip. I miss the process of writing and I miss having a record of what's going on in our lives, so, it's time to dust off the keyboard and start again. I know there are a few out there that will rejoice (hi Mom and Mom-In-Law). Let's hope I don't fall off the bandwagon again.
Where to begin...
I haven't kept up with my monthly letters to Eli, so I'll throw out some of the highlights over the last couple months.
6 months - 16 lbs 10 oz
At the beginning of this month Eli started sitting by himself. We drove across the country to visit all the family in Colorado. Eli met his Grandma and Grandpa H for the first time, along with many of his aunts and uncles. He also pulled himself to standing for the first time during this trip. Unfortunately mommy and daddy were off playing, so we missed it, but Nana and Papa got to witness his trick. He tolerated the traveling really well but once we were home didn't want to get within a foot of his carseat. During this trip, Eli exhibited the most seperation anxiety we've seen from him. He wanted mom and dad a lot, but grandparents still got some time with him. A good thing, since all three sets got to spend time with their grandkids!
7 months -17 lbs 12 oz
Things were pretty status quo this month. Eli started enjoying food a lot more and decided he was ready to wean. I tried to force the issue for a couple weeks, but then decided I was ready for that step too. He seemed happy with the switch, and I'll admit, I liked getting my body back.
8 months - 18lbs 11 oz
Right as he turned 8 months old, Eli started crawling and pulling himself to standing on everything. It took him about a week of the tummy crawl before he moved into the triangle crawl, which lasted a couple more days. By the end of the month he was proficient in both crawling and standing. He also got his 3rd tooth and about a week later his 4th and saw the beach for the first time. Eli, and family, spent a week in Charleston, SC with Nana, Papa and all the aunts and uncles. He liked the sand much more than the water, we had a hard time keeping it out of his mouth. He also decided to wake up before Dawn most mornings, which meant dad or mom (but mostly dad) got an early morning walk on the beach.
9 months - 18 lbs - 14th percentile for weight, 26 1/2" - 6% for height, head circumference 46cm - 70%
At 9 months, after discovering new skills and having croup twice in month, Eli's weight dropped a bit. He's a peanut with a big brain. What little separation anxiety that was seen a few months ago is long gone and he's a happy, social baby. He smiles all the time and loves to play with anyone who looks at him. We get tons of compliments about what a cute and smiley baby he is...maybe that's where his big head comes from? He's already discovered an affinity for fruit over veggies, and of all my kids, is probably the least open to new tastes as this age. He loves to be outside, and if Makenna leaves the back door open, he beelines for the back yard. Speaking of Makenna, Eli started fighting with her this month. He's able to go after toys that interest him now and she isn't always willing to share. It's so funny to see a 9 month old yelling at his big sister, I know it won't be funny for long but for now it makes us laugh.
I could write all day about our sweet baby, but these few updates bring us to current time. To the grandparents, I promise to try harder to keep the updates coming in a timely fashion.
Friday, June 19, 2009
5 Months Old!
Dear Eli,You're 5 months old! You are a sweet, happy baby and very social! You love being held, played with and talked to and will almost always provide a smile for the strangers that comment on how cute you are. Along with that smile, you've started vocalizing a lot. You take a breath and "talk" for as long as that breath holds, and then start again as soon as you've gotten another breath.
You developed a quick love for the blanket your Nana made you. In fact, if you're having a hard time falling asleep I grab the blanket for you. We discovered this one day as you were screaming at the top of your lungs, obviously tired and unable to fall asleep. I gave you your blanket, you rubbed it all over your face for a couple minutes and then you were out! (Thank you Nana for the magic blankets, all of our kids LOVE them.)
You learned to sleep in all sorts of random places this month. Your bouncy seat...
Your feeding chair...
The back pack...
You're much more alert now and really notice things around you. Ryan had just woken up in this picture, but you're wide awake and ready to play!
You discovered some new things this month. I didn't think you were big enough for your jumper, but DM gave it a shot and you love it! When we first put you in it, you could barely reach the floor. Now you can reach the toys in front of you and your legs bend when your feet are flat on the floor. You're also fond of the exosaucer and enjoy all the toys, music and noises you find as you spin yourself around.
You've found your feet and they're currently your favorite toy.
You also decided your fingers are a good snack! No teeth yet, but the drool has begun and you have a little white bump on your gums.
You also decided your fingers are a good snack! No teeth yet, but the drool has begun and you have a little white bump on your gums. You started solids towards the end of the month. It took a day or two to get the hang of the spoon, but once you did there was no stopping you. You'll pull away from breastfeeding and scream, wanting cereal. We've quickly worked a few veggies into your diet as well, for a little variety. You are as fond of the green veggies as you are of the orange, hopefully that continues. So far you've had rice cereal, green beans, peas and sweet potatoes. We've been giving you just a tablespoon or so of food once a day, but it's obvious you'll be looking for more than that pretty soon.
Now, wee one, lets talk about sleep. You were doing so well. You slept through the night a couple times a week and the other nights you were usually only up once. Over the last month, I think you've only slept through the night a night or two and are up once if not twice. You favor wakings at 1:30 and/or 4:30 and get up for the day anywhere between 5:30 and 8. Your wake up time depends on how many times you are up during the night. You are usually still taking three naps a day. Either the mid morning or mid afternoon nap is good, often lasting 1.5 hours, however the other is anywhere from 20-45 minutes, then as we're making dinner you often catch a quick nap in the backpack. We're hoping our trip to Colorado next month magically makes you start sleeping, like it did with your big brother at this age.
Here's a picture of you with Ryan. He's taking his role as big brother seriously and teaching you the video game ropes early. By the way, can you see the mess your brother and sister can make of a house after only being up for an hour?
As for milestones, you've rolled twice, but not intentionally. Your leg and stomach muscles are really strong so I'm sure it will happen in the next couple weeks. Also, we were at the pediatrician's office for Ryan and while there I thought we'd get your weight and height. With clothes on, you weighed in at 15pounds 5 oz and you're 25inches long.
Now, wee one, lets talk about sleep. You were doing so well. You slept through the night a couple times a week and the other nights you were usually only up once. Over the last month, I think you've only slept through the night a night or two and are up once if not twice. You favor wakings at 1:30 and/or 4:30 and get up for the day anywhere between 5:30 and 8. Your wake up time depends on how many times you are up during the night. You are usually still taking three naps a day. Either the mid morning or mid afternoon nap is good, often lasting 1.5 hours, however the other is anywhere from 20-45 minutes, then as we're making dinner you often catch a quick nap in the backpack. We're hoping our trip to Colorado next month magically makes you start sleeping, like it did with your big brother at this age.
Here's a picture of you with Ryan. He's taking his role as big brother seriously and teaching you the video game ropes early. By the way, can you see the mess your brother and sister can make of a house after only being up for an hour?
As for milestones, you've rolled twice, but not intentionally. Your leg and stomach muscles are really strong so I'm sure it will happen in the next couple weeks. Also, we were at the pediatrician's office for Ryan and while there I thought we'd get your weight and height. With clothes on, you weighed in at 15pounds 5 oz and you're 25inches long.
Looking forward to another fun filled month little man. We love you!!!
Love,
Mommy
Tuesday, May 19, 2009
4 months
Dear Eli,
You're 1/3 of a year old now! How time flies!
You are changing and growing so much. At your well check you weighed in at 14 lbs 3 oz and 23 1/2 inches. This puts you at 38% for weight and 9% for height. Our pediatrician said you're short and chubby, just the way babies are supposed to be. She also said you had the most beautiful head, then went on to tell me it's in the 58th percentile. Ha! Your daddy and I are sure you're going to be a genius. Physically you're right on track with good head control, really strong legs gained through your love of standing, and the ability to push up while on your tummy.
You're much more alert this month, than you have been. You stay awake for much longer periods, take shorter and fewer naps, and hate to miss out on anything fun around you. You love watching Ryan and Makenna play near you and you'll smile constantly if they're laughing and smiling. If they're fighting or Makenna is crying, however, you'll often start to cry as well. It appears that you're already empathetic to your siblings. You started grabbing at toys this month and especially love an elastic string and wooden ball toy that your cousin Sebastian sent you. It's easy to hold and you get so excited when you get one of the wooden pieces into your mouth to chew on. Mommy loves that it's not plastic and nontoxic. (Thank you again Aunt Sheryl!)
You also started belly laughing this month. You do this when we play peek a boo and patty cake, and sometimes when I sing to you and your daddy flys you in the air. We've discovered tickle spots on your belly and under your arms which bring on the giggles too. It cracks your daddy and I up when we change your clothes, just lifting your arms makes you break into laughter...which in turn causes us to do the same.
We had a visit from your Gramps and Grammy this month. It's been a year since we last saw them in Arizona, so we all enjoyed the visit. You were such a good baby and gave them smiles each time they'd chat with you and you loved to hear my dad whistle. His whistle often caused you to stop fussing and look at him for more. Grammy spent lots of time holding you up to look out the window, another sure fire way to calm you, when you're upset. I'm so glad they got a chance to spend time with you at this age, because you're so sweet and fun and smiley right now!
You'd started sleeping through the night, but that stopped early this month. Most nights you were up once and sometimes twice, although we still got a few all nighters. We'll be starting solids sometime in the weeks ahead, so we'll see if that helps you get through the night more consistently. I'm not complaining though, you generally get up, eat and go right back to sleep.
You're still sleeping in the pack n play in our master closet. Once you're consistently sleeping through the night we'll move you into the crib and you and Makenna will share a room. She's in her big girl bed now, so she's ready for a roommate!
Eli, your sly little smirks and gummy grins brighten my day...every day. I'm so happy you're with us and am really enjoying watching you grow.
I love you always!
Mommy
You're 1/3 of a year old now! How time flies!
You are changing and growing so much. At your well check you weighed in at 14 lbs 3 oz and 23 1/2 inches. This puts you at 38% for weight and 9% for height. Our pediatrician said you're short and chubby, just the way babies are supposed to be. She also said you had the most beautiful head, then went on to tell me it's in the 58th percentile. Ha! Your daddy and I are sure you're going to be a genius. Physically you're right on track with good head control, really strong legs gained through your love of standing, and the ability to push up while on your tummy.
You're much more alert this month, than you have been. You stay awake for much longer periods, take shorter and fewer naps, and hate to miss out on anything fun around you. You love watching Ryan and Makenna play near you and you'll smile constantly if they're laughing and smiling. If they're fighting or Makenna is crying, however, you'll often start to cry as well. It appears that you're already empathetic to your siblings. You started grabbing at toys this month and especially love an elastic string and wooden ball toy that your cousin Sebastian sent you. It's easy to hold and you get so excited when you get one of the wooden pieces into your mouth to chew on. Mommy loves that it's not plastic and nontoxic. (Thank you again Aunt Sheryl!)
You also started belly laughing this month. You do this when we play peek a boo and patty cake, and sometimes when I sing to you and your daddy flys you in the air. We've discovered tickle spots on your belly and under your arms which bring on the giggles too. It cracks your daddy and I up when we change your clothes, just lifting your arms makes you break into laughter...which in turn causes us to do the same.
We had a visit from your Gramps and Grammy this month. It's been a year since we last saw them in Arizona, so we all enjoyed the visit. You were such a good baby and gave them smiles each time they'd chat with you and you loved to hear my dad whistle. His whistle often caused you to stop fussing and look at him for more. Grammy spent lots of time holding you up to look out the window, another sure fire way to calm you, when you're upset. I'm so glad they got a chance to spend time with you at this age, because you're so sweet and fun and smiley right now!
You'd started sleeping through the night, but that stopped early this month. Most nights you were up once and sometimes twice, although we still got a few all nighters. We'll be starting solids sometime in the weeks ahead, so we'll see if that helps you get through the night more consistently. I'm not complaining though, you generally get up, eat and go right back to sleep.
You're still sleeping in the pack n play in our master closet. Once you're consistently sleeping through the night we'll move you into the crib and you and Makenna will share a room. She's in her big girl bed now, so she's ready for a roommate!
Eli, your sly little smirks and gummy grins brighten my day...every day. I'm so happy you're with us and am really enjoying watching you grow.
I love you always!
Mommy
Sunday, April 19, 2009
3 Months
Dear Eli,You're three months old! How can that be? You've left the baby blob stage and no longer look like a newborn. Your cheeks have filled out and that double chin is coming along nicely. Just a couple days into this month you moved out of the fussy evening stage. We were so thrilled the first night you didn't fuss and thrilled that you stopped that so much earlier than we expected. Right about that time you started sleeping through the night. It didn't happen every night, but frequently. I'm in heaven and can't believe the amount of sleep I'm getting with such a young baby in the house!
Like your siblings, you love bath time. You'll sit and splash as long as we let you and hate getting out and getting dressed. Your really tolerant of water on your face and laugh when we try to clean under your chin.
We get tons of smiles from you now. You're especially happy in the morning and love it when we talk to you. Ryan holds you, singing and moving your arms around. You think this is pretty funn and generally reward him with smiles and even giggles. Makenna kisses all over you constantly. Her kisses don't bring giggles, but by the end of this month you started smiling at her. The two of them fight over who gets to hold you, they love you so much!
This month included a couple of exciting things. The first was a short trip to Atlanta and Chattanooga. You traveled really well, the car trips were a breeze. You also did well during the days...sleeping in your carseat or the sleepy wrap and nursing on the go! I was pretty impressed with us as you nursed in the sling while we walked through the Chattanooga aquarium. You went swimming for the first time while in Chattanooga. The water was on the chilly side so we weren't in the pool for long, but you really enjoyed in when I rubbed some of the warm water from the hot tub on your legs. (Thanks to Nana and Papa for your cute swim trunks!)The other excitement this month was a tornado that hit the town just south of us. We were at a friends house for a playdate and realized that the weather was pretty bad. There were 3 adults and 10 kids, the oldest being 8 and the youngest being you. We spent about an hour piled into a bathroom, most of the kids in the bathtub with mommies and their babies on the floor. You were pretty nonplussed and slept through most of it. The tornado came within a few blocks of us and was classified as an F4. I've had bad dreams since, so I'm glad you don't remember it.
Here's an obligatory shot of you wearing a Johhn Cash Onesie. After all, Music City is your birthplace!
We love you Eli and are looking forward to what the month ahead brings!
Here's an obligatory shot of you wearing a Johhn Cash Onesie. After all, Music City is your birthplace!
We love you Eli and are looking forward to what the month ahead brings!Love,
Mommy
Thursday, March 19, 2009
2 Months
Dear Eli,
Your Nana and Papa came to visit again, towards the end of your second month. They couldn't believe how much you'd grown and changed in the short time since they'd seen you. At the end of their visit you, Makenna and I took a short road trip to Highland to visit your Great Grandma. Your Aunt Sheryl and cousin Sebastian flew in from Colorado, so we had a small family reunion. 
You're still fussy during the evening hours, but the fussiness has decreased during the last week. During the day you're very content unless one of your needs isn't being met. So far, you've been a really easy going baby. We love this and hope it continues! 
Happy 2 month birthday!
The past month included a number of Firsts for you! We got to see your first smiles February 25th and you quickly followed them up with your first giggle on March 11. Once you started you haven't stopped and you're especially full of smiles first thing in the morning. I can easily pass an hour just chatting with you and watching your big gummy grin come and go. Along with your grin comes a twinkle in your eye and a scrunched up nose. You are so cute!
Your Nana and Papa came to visit again, towards the end of your second month. They couldn't believe how much you'd grown and changed in the short time since they'd seen you. At the end of their visit you, Makenna and I took a short road trip to Highland to visit your Great Grandma. Your Aunt Sheryl and cousin Sebastian flew in from Colorado, so we had a small family reunion. You were pretty fussy during one of the days, but the second day you were all smiles and got some good time with GG. You fell asleep on her lap and she loved every minute of it.
You're nursing like a champ, and don't appear to have the tummy troubles Makenna had. Thank goodness! You'll take a bottle from others, but don't like it when I try to give you one. You make a funny face and then let out a pitiful cry. All that nursing is making you grow like a weed. You're weighing in at 10lbs 11oz now and are 22 inches long.
While we were in Highland, your Aunt Sheryl introduced us to the sleepy wrap. You like to be held...a lot, so finding a sling that you like was so exciting! I'm sure you'll spend a lot of time in it during the upcoming months. Your sister and brother are happy about it too, since it means my hands can be free to help them even while I'm holding you.
You're still fussy during the evening hours, but the fussiness has decreased during the last week. During the day you're very content unless one of your needs isn't being met. So far, you've been a really easy going baby. We love this and hope it continues!
I'm looking foward to what the months ahead bring. Watching your relationship develop with Ryan and Makenna will be so fun. I almost forgot to mention that you look so much like Ryan. Here's a picture of Ryan holding you and a picture of him at 3 months. You have the same eyes and nose! Speaking of noses, see Makenna picking hers in the background? She'll hate this picture when she gets older.
I love you little man!
Mommy
Saturday, February 21, 2009
One Month!
Dear Eli,Two days ago you turned a month old! Your dad, brother, sister and I have spent the last month falling in love with you and watching you change before our eyes. It always amazes me how quickly the time with a new baby goes, and this time with you is no different.
It's been so fun discovering things about you.
You have a tiny birthmark on your right eyelid. We first thought you'd scratched yourself but then realized it never went away, I'm wondering if it will fade in time. You have another birthmark on the back of your head at the base of your skull. Makenna and I have one in the same spot. Both of ours are in our hairlines now, I'm guessing yours will be too as you get older.
You HATE having your diaper changed, however we have managed to change a few that you didn't scream through. Same goes for clothing changes. If you could stay in a nice warm sleeper at all times you'd be happy.
You squeak...a lot. I call you velocarapture because that's what you sound like to me in the evenings when you fuss. Your daddy calls you Keebler, he pushes your ears forward and thinks you look like an elf. Your voice, when not squeaky, is somewhat deep and raspy.
When you were born we didn't think you looked like Ryan or Makenna, over the weeks it's become obvious that you resemble your big brother. He's a handsome boy, and we're sure you will be too. The nurses at the hospital couldn't get enough of you and how cute you were when born...now you're even cuter!
Along with our immediate family, you met a few other family members during your first month of life. Your Nana, Papa and Uncle Colin were here when you were born, they were as excited as we were to meet you and traveled from Colorado and Arizona for the event.
You've been busy during your first month. You've already been to the mall twice, two playdates, and out to lunch with friends a couple times. You're so good in the car and when we're out that it's easy to take you places. We have a double stroller that you and Makenna ride in, it's huge, but the two of you are riding in style. In the picture below you're all bundled up and ready to travel.
You've been a pretty good sleeper so far. We often get a 4 hour stretch from you during the night and have even gotten 5 hours. You generally want to eat every 2.5 to 3 hours during the day, which means you've gone a bit longer during night feedings. Daddy and I really appreciate that! You usually eat for the last time around 11pm and then get up around 3 or 4 and then again when daddy gets up at 6am. Another sign that you're eating well, a double chin and chubby cheeks! 
You're very tolerant of your siblings. They want to hold you and kiss you all the time, and you usually let them and hardly ever get upset about it. Sometimes they can even calm you down if you're fussy. Ryan will get right in your face and talk to you and your eyes get big and wide and you just stare at him. He loves it!
At some point you'll share a room with Makenna, but for now you sleep in our room in a bassinet. We're probably going to try putting you in a pack n play in our master closet when you grow out of the bassinet since you grunt and groan a lot when you're first falling asleep and when you're waking up. Once you sleep through the night, hopefully your big sister will be ready to give up the crib and you can move in with her.
You're weighing in at 8lbs 8oz and are beginning to grow out of your newborn clothes. You still seem so small, and yet you were so much tinier just a month ago. It's been an incredible month little man, you are such a sweet natured baby.
Happy One Month Birthday Eli, we love you so much!
Love,
Mommy
Friday, February 06, 2009
Birth Story
You'd think, with a planned c-section, that I wouldn't have much of a birth story to write. That's mostly true, although there were a few things worth documenting.
Sunday night I packed my bag and went over all the little details regarding Ryan and Makenna's care with my mom, step dad and brother. We hung out, had some cake and ice cream and went to bed. I didn't think I'd be able to sleep, but I was tired enough that sleep came pretty easily. Even though my c-section wasn't scheduled until noon, I was told I couldn't eat or drink anything after midnight. I wasn't overly concerned about not being able to eat, but I knew I'd need to take my acid reflux meds or I'd be sick. My pregnancy induced acid reflux decided to give me one more bad night, so I was up at midnight eating Tums and then up again at 2 taking Zantac. Up once more about 4:30 am throwing up and beyond irritated that I couldn't take anything to settle the acid and cool my throat. After about an hour, I think I dozed again and got a bit more sleep before the big day.
That morning we were due to arrive around 9:30. I got up, threw last minute items in my bag, tried not to smell the coffee brewing, chatted with my friend Kele and then Wayne, my mom and I were off to the hospital. We spent a little time waiting to get admitted and then we were off to Labor and delivery. After changing into my beautiful hospital gown I spent quite awhile chatting with the anesthesiologist. I had so much trouble with the medication during Makenna's birth that I didn't want to experience that again. We decided to go with an epidural vs a spinal with hope that I wouldn't have such a strong reaction to the meds...and no spinal headache to contend with after delivery. The anesthesiologist thought I'd been "wet tapped" with Makenna, so I was hopeful that my complications were due to that and all would go well. After putting in the epi, it appeared to take affect on one side, so I rolled to the other side to let gravity help out. Slowly I was starting to get numb, and then I was laid down all the way to let some of the meds work their way up my belly. That's when things got a little crazy. I instantly felt sick from the acid reflux and then had to close my eyes and concentrate on not throwing up. I'm not sure how long I laid there, but at some point I remember hearing lots of noise around me and lots of beeping machines. My BP had dropped, I think I heard the nurse say it was 38/23. They gave me a shot of basically adrenaline and sat me up, soon I was able to open my eyes and was feeling better. After that we were off to the OR to meet our sweet boy. The surgery was pretty uneventful. I don't remember much, however Wayne says blood went flying at one point. I'm sure that was enjoyable for him to see. Before long Eli was out and getting cleaned up. I remember looking at him and thinking he looked really different than Ryan and Makenna did when they were born. He had less hair and his skin was more fair. I think I heard the nurse say his apgars were 9/9. I got to have a couple minutes with him before he and daddy were wisked off to the nursery, at which point I fell head over heels in love with our third child. After they left I recall the doctor popping his head over the curtain and saying "So, no tubal today right?" He was joking and knew my response would be that yes indeed, a tubal was on the agenda. There were two things that struck me as odd that morning. I'd requested dermabond to close up the incision and during surgery they had to call down to another OR to get someone to bring the dermabond. Since I'd requested that months before, you'd think they'd have it ready. Also, I have a minor allergy to an antibiotic and they didn't have the appropriate one to give me and had to call someone for that too. Again, wouldn't you think they'd be prepared with that stuff?
Recovery went well until an hour or so after surgery, then the throwing up began again. It wasn't as bad as it was with Makenna, but still miserable. I was sick through the night but by the next morning I'd started to feel better. Thankfully I was able to nurse laying down even though I was sick, so Eli didn't have to get formula.
After the first 24 hours, recovery went really well as long as I took my pain meds. I let it go too long one night and my body let me know it by shivering uncontrollably, but I'm still surprised by how quickly the body recovers from being sliced open! Surgery was monday and we were released from the hospital on thursday, it was so great to go home and have our whole family together. Eli even had a welcoming committee since my brother, mom and stepdad were still in town and would remain for awhile longer.
I'm glad we decided to go with the repeat c-section, after much second guessing, it was the right choice for us. Now it's time to enjoy being a family of five!
Sunday night I packed my bag and went over all the little details regarding Ryan and Makenna's care with my mom, step dad and brother. We hung out, had some cake and ice cream and went to bed. I didn't think I'd be able to sleep, but I was tired enough that sleep came pretty easily. Even though my c-section wasn't scheduled until noon, I was told I couldn't eat or drink anything after midnight. I wasn't overly concerned about not being able to eat, but I knew I'd need to take my acid reflux meds or I'd be sick. My pregnancy induced acid reflux decided to give me one more bad night, so I was up at midnight eating Tums and then up again at 2 taking Zantac. Up once more about 4:30 am throwing up and beyond irritated that I couldn't take anything to settle the acid and cool my throat. After about an hour, I think I dozed again and got a bit more sleep before the big day.
That morning we were due to arrive around 9:30. I got up, threw last minute items in my bag, tried not to smell the coffee brewing, chatted with my friend Kele and then Wayne, my mom and I were off to the hospital. We spent a little time waiting to get admitted and then we were off to Labor and delivery. After changing into my beautiful hospital gown I spent quite awhile chatting with the anesthesiologist. I had so much trouble with the medication during Makenna's birth that I didn't want to experience that again. We decided to go with an epidural vs a spinal with hope that I wouldn't have such a strong reaction to the meds...and no spinal headache to contend with after delivery. The anesthesiologist thought I'd been "wet tapped" with Makenna, so I was hopeful that my complications were due to that and all would go well. After putting in the epi, it appeared to take affect on one side, so I rolled to the other side to let gravity help out. Slowly I was starting to get numb, and then I was laid down all the way to let some of the meds work their way up my belly. That's when things got a little crazy. I instantly felt sick from the acid reflux and then had to close my eyes and concentrate on not throwing up. I'm not sure how long I laid there, but at some point I remember hearing lots of noise around me and lots of beeping machines. My BP had dropped, I think I heard the nurse say it was 38/23. They gave me a shot of basically adrenaline and sat me up, soon I was able to open my eyes and was feeling better. After that we were off to the OR to meet our sweet boy. The surgery was pretty uneventful. I don't remember much, however Wayne says blood went flying at one point. I'm sure that was enjoyable for him to see. Before long Eli was out and getting cleaned up. I remember looking at him and thinking he looked really different than Ryan and Makenna did when they were born. He had less hair and his skin was more fair. I think I heard the nurse say his apgars were 9/9. I got to have a couple minutes with him before he and daddy were wisked off to the nursery, at which point I fell head over heels in love with our third child. After they left I recall the doctor popping his head over the curtain and saying "So, no tubal today right?" He was joking and knew my response would be that yes indeed, a tubal was on the agenda. There were two things that struck me as odd that morning. I'd requested dermabond to close up the incision and during surgery they had to call down to another OR to get someone to bring the dermabond. Since I'd requested that months before, you'd think they'd have it ready. Also, I have a minor allergy to an antibiotic and they didn't have the appropriate one to give me and had to call someone for that too. Again, wouldn't you think they'd be prepared with that stuff?
Recovery went well until an hour or so after surgery, then the throwing up began again. It wasn't as bad as it was with Makenna, but still miserable. I was sick through the night but by the next morning I'd started to feel better. Thankfully I was able to nurse laying down even though I was sick, so Eli didn't have to get formula.
After the first 24 hours, recovery went really well as long as I took my pain meds. I let it go too long one night and my body let me know it by shivering uncontrollably, but I'm still surprised by how quickly the body recovers from being sliced open! Surgery was monday and we were released from the hospital on thursday, it was so great to go home and have our whole family together. Eli even had a welcoming committee since my brother, mom and stepdad were still in town and would remain for awhile longer.
I'm glad we decided to go with the repeat c-section, after much second guessing, it was the right choice for us. Now it's time to enjoy being a family of five!
Tuesday, February 03, 2009
Birth Weight...heck yeah!
Today was Eli's second dr's appt. We had to take him in because his first weight check at one week and one day old showed him to be 3 ounces shy of his birth weight. Well today, at two weeks and a day old he was 7 pounds 8 ounces...I guess the breast feeding is going well!
At his first appt, they plotted his size for us and he was on the low end of the spectrum, just like Ryan. Sadly, It's only been a week and a half since that appt, but I can't remember the exact stats. I'll have to look up the info. Sleep deprivation does wonders for the memory.
Edited to add that I finally looked up the stats...Eli's 26th percentile for height, 17th for weight and 42nd for head circumfrence. I wonder if he'll grow into his noggin?
At his first appt, they plotted his size for us and he was on the low end of the spectrum, just like Ryan. Sadly, It's only been a week and a half since that appt, but I can't remember the exact stats. I'll have to look up the info. Sleep deprivation does wonders for the memory.
Edited to add that I finally looked up the stats...Eli's 26th percentile for height, 17th for weight and 42nd for head circumfrence. I wonder if he'll grow into his noggin?
Sunday, February 01, 2009
Big Day!
It was a big day in our house.
Early this morning, Makenna decided she was ready to try out her potty. She said she had to go but I didn't think much of it as she's been teasing us in that department. Well, today she was serious. She sat on her potty, asked me to leave and when I went back in to check on her, she'd pooped! We all clapped and cheered and there were high 5's all around. I hope this is the beginning of potty training, but I'm not holding my breath just yet.
Not long after that excitement, I changed Eli's diaper and discovered he'd lost his umbilical cord. Welcome to world of warm baths, little man. I hope you love them.
Early this morning, Makenna decided she was ready to try out her potty. She said she had to go but I didn't think much of it as she's been teasing us in that department. Well, today she was serious. She sat on her potty, asked me to leave and when I went back in to check on her, she'd pooped! We all clapped and cheered and there were high 5's all around. I hope this is the beginning of potty training, but I'm not holding my breath just yet.
Not long after that excitement, I changed Eli's diaper and discovered he'd lost his umbilical cord. Welcome to world of warm baths, little man. I hope you love them.
Monday, January 26, 2009
We're in Love!
Introducing...
Eli Sterling
7 lbs 3 oz
19" long
Last Monday started like this. Wayne and I posed for my last preggo picture while waiting for the nurse to come in and start c-section prep.
A couple hours later, Eli arrived!
Makenna and Ryan waited patiently to see their little brother. He's there in the background!
Ryan seeing his little brother up close for the first time.
Ryan seeing his little brother up close for the first time.Ryan holding Eli and looking like the proud big brother he is. 
Later in the week, the big kids and daddy took a special trip to the Greatest Show on Earth. Ryan enjoyed the cotton candy, and really understood the jokes. He had a great time. Makenna love the lemonaid but had a hard time sitting so long.
Makenna holding Eli for the first time, with Ryan smiling and waiting his turn.
Makenna can't get enough of Eli. She wants to hold him or touch him all the time. Daddy's getting time with the youngest two and helping Makenna hold her little brother.
Later in the week, the big kids and daddy took a special trip to the Greatest Show on Earth. Ryan enjoyed the cotton candy, and really understood the jokes. He had a great time. Makenna love the lemonaid but had a hard time sitting so long.Makenna holding Eli for the first time, with Ryan smiling and waiting his turn. Makenna can't get enough of Eli. She wants to hold him or touch him all the time. Daddy's getting time with the youngest two and helping Makenna hold her little brother. It's been an exciting and wonderful week in our house. Birth story to follow.
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