Monday, June 30, 2008
Birth Announcements
I just finished designing the birth announcements and I plan to mail them out by the end of the week. I can't wait for everyone to see them! It's always so much fun designing something to share with others!
Sunday, June 29, 2008
Proudly Announcing...
I am back to my pre-pregnancy weight! YAY! In fact, I am officially 2.5 lbs less than what I weighed when I found out I was pregnant!
Since the birth of the twins, I've lost 51 lbs. 20 pounds of that was put on the last two weeks of my pregnancy due to the preeclampsia and water weight gain.
I am sure the Gestational Diabetes had a little to do with this. I had to watch my carb intake very closely. However, there were days where I was eating WAY MORE calories than I should have. I ate more double-Whoppers from Burger King than I care to admit. I also became addicted to McDonald's double cheeseburgers. In fact, first I had just one, then I would order two. Two quickly went to three. Yes, I would sit and eat three double cheeseburgers! THEN, one evening for dinner, when Tim was working on a Saturday, I went to Mickey D's and ordered three double cheeseburgers and a southern style chicken sandwich and I ate EVERY LAST BITE! I also put down two bacon cheese thickburgers from Hardees in one sitting!
I guess I really needed all of those cheeseburgers. Really! The only really sucky part about this is that I will NEVER be able to eat that way again. Actually, I don't miss it. I could feel my arteries clogging from all the cholesterol. But I had to stay away from carbs and eat protein, protein, protein! We went to BK yesterday for lunch. I went back to what I would eat in High School when I wanted to lose weight... a classic chicken sandwich, with no mayo (gawd, I miss mayo) with a diet drink. This is where I tell myself I hate french fries. I convinced myself for years that I hated french fries, and now that I CAN eat them, I shouldn't.
BUT - it doesn't matter because I don't have any weight from my twin pregnancy to lose. None. Plenty of pre-pregnancy weight to lose, that's for sure... but maybe now that my Thyroid is being treated for being under-active, I will find it easier to lose weight compared to before.
Since the birth of the twins, I've lost 51 lbs. 20 pounds of that was put on the last two weeks of my pregnancy due to the preeclampsia and water weight gain.
I am sure the Gestational Diabetes had a little to do with this. I had to watch my carb intake very closely. However, there were days where I was eating WAY MORE calories than I should have. I ate more double-Whoppers from Burger King than I care to admit. I also became addicted to McDonald's double cheeseburgers. In fact, first I had just one, then I would order two. Two quickly went to three. Yes, I would sit and eat three double cheeseburgers! THEN, one evening for dinner, when Tim was working on a Saturday, I went to Mickey D's and ordered three double cheeseburgers and a southern style chicken sandwich and I ate EVERY LAST BITE! I also put down two bacon cheese thickburgers from Hardees in one sitting!
I guess I really needed all of those cheeseburgers. Really! The only really sucky part about this is that I will NEVER be able to eat that way again. Actually, I don't miss it. I could feel my arteries clogging from all the cholesterol. But I had to stay away from carbs and eat protein, protein, protein! We went to BK yesterday for lunch. I went back to what I would eat in High School when I wanted to lose weight... a classic chicken sandwich, with no mayo (gawd, I miss mayo) with a diet drink. This is where I tell myself I hate french fries. I convinced myself for years that I hated french fries, and now that I CAN eat them, I shouldn't.
BUT - it doesn't matter because I don't have any weight from my twin pregnancy to lose. None. Plenty of pre-pregnancy weight to lose, that's for sure... but maybe now that my Thyroid is being treated for being under-active, I will find it easier to lose weight compared to before.
Saturday, June 28, 2008
Dr's Update & Good Ole Bribery!
We went for our two week well-baby check up and the girls are doing very good! Lauren had lost a full pound in her first five days and went down to 6lbs 1oz. Today she was 6lbs 15oz, thank goodness! Katherine didn't lose as much weight initially and although I can't remember how much she weight on the 15th, I know it was close to 5lbs 6oz. Today she was 6lbs 3oz, which means she is officially bigger than she was at birth! I can tell too, just by looking at her.
Katherine also grew a whole half-inch, putting her at 18.5:, at the 2nd percentile for her age (which isn't adjusted for her prematurity). Lauren is still at 19 inches and is in the 6th percentile. I am sure they will both be much higher on the scale when they are a year old! TJ's pretty much been in the 95+ range for his percentile in height and weight since he was 3 months old!
Dr. S was very impressed with Katherine's muscle tone, being able to hold her head by herself when being pulled up with her arms. He said both girls seem very alert and look great!
There's also a barber shop right across the hall from the Ped's office (our ped's office is in a medical mall). After years of pretty much being the only person cutting TJ's hair, I was anxious for him to attempt getting a hair cut at the barber's. At first he kept saying no, he didn't want to - but then I bribed him with LEGOs... which he has been wanting forever. I kept telling him that he couldn't have them because the box says for ages 6+. Well, I just don't have time to cut his hair anymore. And finally, the bribe worked and he got a hair cut! I REALLY LOVE the way it was cut and the lady who did it was patient and did exactly what I wanted her to do. Tim got a pic and a small video of TJ at the barber and said he will post it a little later.
Katherine also grew a whole half-inch, putting her at 18.5:, at the 2nd percentile for her age (which isn't adjusted for her prematurity). Lauren is still at 19 inches and is in the 6th percentile. I am sure they will both be much higher on the scale when they are a year old! TJ's pretty much been in the 95+ range for his percentile in height and weight since he was 3 months old!
Dr. S was very impressed with Katherine's muscle tone, being able to hold her head by herself when being pulled up with her arms. He said both girls seem very alert and look great!
There's also a barber shop right across the hall from the Ped's office (our ped's office is in a medical mall). After years of pretty much being the only person cutting TJ's hair, I was anxious for him to attempt getting a hair cut at the barber's. At first he kept saying no, he didn't want to - but then I bribed him with LEGOs... which he has been wanting forever. I kept telling him that he couldn't have them because the box says for ages 6+. Well, I just don't have time to cut his hair anymore. And finally, the bribe worked and he got a hair cut! I REALLY LOVE the way it was cut and the lady who did it was patient and did exactly what I wanted her to do. Tim got a pic and a small video of TJ at the barber and said he will post it a little later.
14 Diapers & 14 Bottles a Day (at least)
That's how many bottles and diapers we are going through per day, between both of the girls. That's a LOT of bottles and diapers and thank goodness we are doing cloth! This is why I feel like I am constantly changing and feeding babies!
We aren't having a whole lot of luck getting them to sleep in their cribs. I can get two hour out of them and then they just aren't doing it anymore. They are pretty much living in their bouncy seats right now... which I hate because I know that played a huge role in TJ's plagiocephaly and torticollis. Plus I can tell Lauren already had a tendency to lean to one side, just like TJ. I am already doing neck stretching exercises on her, though and I am giving them more tummy time than I remember giving to TJ. I just don't want to have to do another DOC Band or helmet therapy.
We see the pediatrician on Saturday and I am praying they've gained well and maybe we can get some answers about the possibility of reflux. I just don't know! I just pray that we get answers and that those answers are helpful. I know babies spit-up. But it can't be good when they appear to lose half their bottle or act like they are in pain.
Oh the joys of infancy!
We aren't having a whole lot of luck getting them to sleep in their cribs. I can get two hour out of them and then they just aren't doing it anymore. They are pretty much living in their bouncy seats right now... which I hate because I know that played a huge role in TJ's plagiocephaly and torticollis. Plus I can tell Lauren already had a tendency to lean to one side, just like TJ. I am already doing neck stretching exercises on her, though and I am giving them more tummy time than I remember giving to TJ. I just don't want to have to do another DOC Band or helmet therapy.
We see the pediatrician on Saturday and I am praying they've gained well and maybe we can get some answers about the possibility of reflux. I just don't know! I just pray that we get answers and that those answers are helpful. I know babies spit-up. But it can't be good when they appear to lose half their bottle or act like they are in pain.
Oh the joys of infancy!
Friday, June 27, 2008
The Towle House Madness
TGIF! Only about 30 minutes into Friday, but I am SO READY for the weekend! Seriously - at some point I plan on taking advantage of Tim being home so I can SLEEP for more than two to three hours at a time. I must say, I am much better off right now than I was when TJ was an infant. I never slept when he was a baby. I was always afraid he would die, from spitting up and choking on it, or just stop breathing. I told myself I couldn't sleep. Raney is letting us use her twins' Angel Care Monitors, so when the girls are actually sleeping in their cribs, I have a little more confidence and will actually sleep when they do.
I just uploaded some new pictures to our Photobucket account:
http://s6.photobucket.com/albums/y202/JediMommy/The%20kids%20062708/
I also got more pictures of TJ - this time acting like a Power Ranger:
I swear to you all, TJ DOES have clothes. I can't even bribe him to wear clothes at home. I will if someone is coming over (like the pest control guy). But even then, the second he can, he is back in underwear only.
Yes, more Power Rangers. But you know, it's a nice change from Star Wars, Indiana Jones and Transformers.
I also refuse to upload all the pics of TJ acting like a Power Rangers because of the fact that he is only in his underwear... and I vow to limit his "exposure" on the net. Although, with one picture, why not have more than one?
I have just a few more minutes before Katie wants another bottle. I am hoping Lauren will follow closely behind because she has been pokey with the bottles today and now their schedule is off --- meaning I feel like all I am doing is feeding a bottle to a baby. This is where I tell you I am super thankful that I DID NOT breastfeed. I wouldn't want a baby (or babies) stuck to my boob all day long. But this is ALSO where I have to put my disclaimer in because I must make sure that all the breastfeeding Nazis out there understand that I CAN'T breastfeed because of a breast reduction I had more than a decade ago. We tried with TJ and as I tell him, mommy's boobies just don't work. So yes, we are formula feeding and I am more than happy to do it.
So, I am not breastfeeder, but I DO cloth diaper the girls. It was really intimidating at first since we did disposals on TJ (and we still do since he wears the Goodnights at night for bed wetting). I knew I was going to CD (cloth diaper) long ago, and started purchasing all the goods long before they got here. My starter stash (yes, the CD jargon for your collection of diapers as a "stash"), I think, has them covered until they are probably a year or more old. If not, pretty darn close. And you would not believe the resell value on USED cloth diapers! It's amazing! We spent $500 (I think... could have been $400 or $600, I can't remember and haven't looked at the numbers in a while) for our initial stash. That's nothing compared to how much we are going to save. Consider how DOW Chemicals prices have sky rocketed, and their chemicals are used to make disposable diapers. The prices are going to go through the roof (along with all our other food and clothing prices) and we are going to save HUNDREDS of dollars!
We are also pleased to be environmentally friendly with our CDs. Yes, it takes water to wash the cloth diapers, and energy, but the amount of crude oil it takes to make an individual diaper is quite a bit. I saw that show on Discovery about carbon footprints on everyday items, and I think it said it took a pint of crude oil per diaper in the manufacturing process. So, even if I am using more energy in my home and more water, I believe it to be better than what it takes to make a disposable AND it will NOT be sitting in a landfill for decades to come.
Well, enough rambling from me. I am tired, but my brain never stops! Plus I am getting at least one hungry girl stirring right now. Off I go for another round of diaper change, bottle, burping, diaper change, bottle, burping.... and a nap (hopefully) before I have to do it again in three hours!
I just uploaded some new pictures to our Photobucket account:
http://s6.photobucket.com/albums/y202/JediMommy/The%20kids%20062708/
I also got more pictures of TJ - this time acting like a Power Ranger:
I swear to you all, TJ DOES have clothes. I can't even bribe him to wear clothes at home. I will if someone is coming over (like the pest control guy). But even then, the second he can, he is back in underwear only.Yes, more Power Rangers. But you know, it's a nice change from Star Wars, Indiana Jones and Transformers.
I also refuse to upload all the pics of TJ acting like a Power Rangers because of the fact that he is only in his underwear... and I vow to limit his "exposure" on the net. Although, with one picture, why not have more than one?
I have just a few more minutes before Katie wants another bottle. I am hoping Lauren will follow closely behind because she has been pokey with the bottles today and now their schedule is off --- meaning I feel like all I am doing is feeding a bottle to a baby. This is where I tell you I am super thankful that I DID NOT breastfeed. I wouldn't want a baby (or babies) stuck to my boob all day long. But this is ALSO where I have to put my disclaimer in because I must make sure that all the breastfeeding Nazis out there understand that I CAN'T breastfeed because of a breast reduction I had more than a decade ago. We tried with TJ and as I tell him, mommy's boobies just don't work. So yes, we are formula feeding and I am more than happy to do it.
So, I am not breastfeeder, but I DO cloth diaper the girls. It was really intimidating at first since we did disposals on TJ (and we still do since he wears the Goodnights at night for bed wetting). I knew I was going to CD (cloth diaper) long ago, and started purchasing all the goods long before they got here. My starter stash (yes, the CD jargon for your collection of diapers as a "stash"), I think, has them covered until they are probably a year or more old. If not, pretty darn close. And you would not believe the resell value on USED cloth diapers! It's amazing! We spent $500 (I think... could have been $400 or $600, I can't remember and haven't looked at the numbers in a while) for our initial stash. That's nothing compared to how much we are going to save. Consider how DOW Chemicals prices have sky rocketed, and their chemicals are used to make disposable diapers. The prices are going to go through the roof (along with all our other food and clothing prices) and we are going to save HUNDREDS of dollars!
We are also pleased to be environmentally friendly with our CDs. Yes, it takes water to wash the cloth diapers, and energy, but the amount of crude oil it takes to make an individual diaper is quite a bit. I saw that show on Discovery about carbon footprints on everyday items, and I think it said it took a pint of crude oil per diaper in the manufacturing process. So, even if I am using more energy in my home and more water, I believe it to be better than what it takes to make a disposable AND it will NOT be sitting in a landfill for decades to come.
Well, enough rambling from me. I am tired, but my brain never stops! Plus I am getting at least one hungry girl stirring right now. Off I go for another round of diaper change, bottle, burping, diaper change, bottle, burping.... and a nap (hopefully) before I have to do it again in three hours!
Tuesday, June 24, 2008
A new development...
For some reason I thought that since we didn't watch Power Rangers, TJ would never get into them. Nope. No such luck. I think I can blame this new addiction on my mother, who while watching TJ at some point introduced him to a Power Rangers movie.
And now I have "Power Rangers roar, Dino Rangers soar..." horrible theme music stuck in my head. That would be from the Power Rangers Dino Rangers show. Then there is the Power Rangers Jungle Fury (note to Tim - that is Jungle FURY not Jungle FEVER!)... and I believe at least two other Power Rangers shows. I guess it is kind of like Star Trek and all the different versions of that show. Either way, the theme music sucks and is STUCK in my head. I guess I could say it is a nice change from the iCarly theme song.
I guess once TJ goes off the Kindergarten and it's just me and the girls, I won't be subjected to so much television. At this point, I actually enjoy SpongeBob. In fact, I often times watch it with real interest and laugh out of actual enjoyment.
As for the Power Rangers, perhaps I shouldn't have set the TiVO to record it off of Toon Disney at night for TJ to watch the next day. I am a glutton for punishment.
And now I have "Power Rangers roar, Dino Rangers soar..." horrible theme music stuck in my head. That would be from the Power Rangers Dino Rangers show. Then there is the Power Rangers Jungle Fury (note to Tim - that is Jungle FURY not Jungle FEVER!)... and I believe at least two other Power Rangers shows. I guess it is kind of like Star Trek and all the different versions of that show. Either way, the theme music sucks and is STUCK in my head. I guess I could say it is a nice change from the iCarly theme song.
I guess once TJ goes off the Kindergarten and it's just me and the girls, I won't be subjected to so much television. At this point, I actually enjoy SpongeBob. In fact, I often times watch it with real interest and laugh out of actual enjoyment.
As for the Power Rangers, perhaps I shouldn't have set the TiVO to record it off of Toon Disney at night for TJ to watch the next day. I am a glutton for punishment.
More Pictures
Here are some more pictures from the Towle House:
http://s6.photobucket.com/albums/y202/JediMommy/Pics%20for%20June%2023/
And some highlights from the new album...
Up first - the madness in TJ's room. After five years of collecting stuffed animals, a few hand-me-downs from Becky and even some from me, this is what his large collection looks like:
What you don't see is the madness under what you can see. This net must weigh 50 pounds. Also not pictured are the two huge stuffed animals that didn't fit in the net and are now finding a home on the floor of his bedroom. You can see a better picture of his room by clicking here.
By the way, if you happen to be shopping and you find another big pet net like this one (stuff animal hammock, whatever you want to call it), PLEASE purchase it!! I promise to buy it from you for the purchase price! I've looked in WalMart, Target, and I've called around looking for these. It's some sort of game retailers are playing with me because the only way I can seem to find one is to pay an arm and a leg in shipping costs and make an order on the Internet. So the next time you think about it, look for one and if they have it - buy one or more! I am sure there is another child's mother out there that would kill for one of these!
This photo is precisely why I love our camera. Not only could I actually take an in-focus picture without a flash and no tripod, but I could capture a fleeting moment!
Here's Lauren looking adorable! Okay, she looks a little bit like an old man, too - but don't most babies at some point? I really do love this picture. It already shows her individuality despite the fact that I think that she looks just like TJ did as a baby! She loves laying on her belly and we often use our big Boppy to give her some tummy time.
I don't get as many candid shots with Katherine. She just isn't as willing of a subject as Lauren is. But here's a cute one of her...
Katie is especially orally fixated and loves to suck on her binkies and fingers (mine and hers). I've caught her sucking her thumb a few times... which I am trying to keep from becoming a habit. If I didn't know better (from mommy experience), I would be overfeeding this child because after every bottle she wants to suck even more. I know she's eaten enough and I think she just really enjoys the comfort of the reflex. She often sleeps and does a sucking movement with her mouth. Too cute! Hey... I think that would make a perfect little video to post!
That's all for now... be sure to check out the other pictures in the link above. It's about time for bottles and then bed (for all of us).
By the way - my dear friends, I miss you! I miss you all very dearly. I wish I could leave the house with the babies, but I am waiting until July 11 per the Dr's orders!
http://s6.photobucket.com/albums/y202/JediMommy/Pics%20for%20June%2023/
And some highlights from the new album...
Up first - the madness in TJ's room. After five years of collecting stuffed animals, a few hand-me-downs from Becky and even some from me, this is what his large collection looks like:
What you don't see is the madness under what you can see. This net must weigh 50 pounds. Also not pictured are the two huge stuffed animals that didn't fit in the net and are now finding a home on the floor of his bedroom. You can see a better picture of his room by clicking here.
By the way, if you happen to be shopping and you find another big pet net like this one (stuff animal hammock, whatever you want to call it), PLEASE purchase it!! I promise to buy it from you for the purchase price! I've looked in WalMart, Target, and I've called around looking for these. It's some sort of game retailers are playing with me because the only way I can seem to find one is to pay an arm and a leg in shipping costs and make an order on the Internet. So the next time you think about it, look for one and if they have it - buy one or more! I am sure there is another child's mother out there that would kill for one of these!
This photo is precisely why I love our camera. Not only could I actually take an in-focus picture without a flash and no tripod, but I could capture a fleeting moment!Here's Lauren looking adorable! Okay, she looks a little bit like an old man, too - but don't most babies at some point? I really do love this picture. It already shows her individuality despite the fact that I think that she looks just like TJ did as a baby! She loves laying on her belly and we often use our big Boppy to give her some tummy time.
I don't get as many candid shots with Katherine. She just isn't as willing of a subject as Lauren is. But here's a cute one of her...
Katie is especially orally fixated and loves to suck on her binkies and fingers (mine and hers). I've caught her sucking her thumb a few times... which I am trying to keep from becoming a habit. If I didn't know better (from mommy experience), I would be overfeeding this child because after every bottle she wants to suck even more. I know she's eaten enough and I think she just really enjoys the comfort of the reflex. She often sleeps and does a sucking movement with her mouth. Too cute! Hey... I think that would make a perfect little video to post!That's all for now... be sure to check out the other pictures in the link above. It's about time for bottles and then bed (for all of us).
By the way - my dear friends, I miss you! I miss you all very dearly. I wish I could leave the house with the babies, but I am waiting until July 11 per the Dr's orders!
Thursday, June 19, 2008
TJ: The World's Best Big Brother
Many have asked how TJ is getting along with his new baby sisters, and here's a one word reply: magnificently!
TJ really loves his little sisters. He enjoys talking to them, wants so badly to play with them, and occasionally wants to hold them, too! Today he asked if he could help burp one of his sisters (my blurry memory limits me and I can't remember which sister that was). He's been such a great brother and son. Tim and I are very, very proud of him!!!
For his birthday in July, we plan on buying him a Nintendo DS. Right now he plays with his hand-held V-Smile and enjoys the learning games, but since he is a master of the Wii, we figured it was time for him to have a hand-held game system that suits him and his abilities. It amazes me how FAST he catches on to things. I can easily say that he may have surpassed Tim's ability on the Wii ;) I'm not ready to admit that he's surpassed me quite yet.
We are going to do a Friday Night dinner for TJ on July 11 for his big kid friends (i.e., his adult friends) and then on his birthday we are going to go to Chuck E Cheese. Hopefully he can have a couple of kids there, too. Next year will be so different with school friends (I hope). With a mid-July birthday, it will be harder for him to have big parties because of friends that are on vacation, etc. And with it not being in the school year... who knows. All of my kids have summer birthdays!
TJ can't wait for his birthday. I can't wait to see his face when he gets the Nintendo DS. He has NO CLUE and he is going to LOVE IT!!!!
TJ really loves his little sisters. He enjoys talking to them, wants so badly to play with them, and occasionally wants to hold them, too! Today he asked if he could help burp one of his sisters (my blurry memory limits me and I can't remember which sister that was). He's been such a great brother and son. Tim and I are very, very proud of him!!!
For his birthday in July, we plan on buying him a Nintendo DS. Right now he plays with his hand-held V-Smile and enjoys the learning games, but since he is a master of the Wii, we figured it was time for him to have a hand-held game system that suits him and his abilities. It amazes me how FAST he catches on to things. I can easily say that he may have surpassed Tim's ability on the Wii ;) I'm not ready to admit that he's surpassed me quite yet.
We are going to do a Friday Night dinner for TJ on July 11 for his big kid friends (i.e., his adult friends) and then on his birthday we are going to go to Chuck E Cheese. Hopefully he can have a couple of kids there, too. Next year will be so different with school friends (I hope). With a mid-July birthday, it will be harder for him to have big parties because of friends that are on vacation, etc. And with it not being in the school year... who knows. All of my kids have summer birthdays!
TJ can't wait for his birthday. I can't wait to see his face when he gets the Nintendo DS. He has NO CLUE and he is going to LOVE IT!!!!
Wednesday, June 18, 2008
Some pictures
I finally uploaded some photos to our Photobucket account:
http://s6.photobucket.com/albums/y202/JediMommy/Katie%20Lauren%20061808/
We are in formula hell right now. Trying to figure out what will work for these girls. They had been spitting up a LOT, got a little better, but we are still looking at a lot of spit-ups even after going to a lactose-free formula... against my better judgement.
We are now going to go back to the regular formula and add rice to thicken it up - keeping it down better. We dealt with this with TJ so I am just thankful that we've been there and dealt with this already. I tell ya, if we were first time parents with twins, it would be even more hellish. Thank goodness for confidence in our own parenting skills!
http://s6.photobucket.com/albums/y202/JediMommy/Katie%20Lauren%20061808/
We are in formula hell right now. Trying to figure out what will work for these girls. They had been spitting up a LOT, got a little better, but we are still looking at a lot of spit-ups even after going to a lactose-free formula... against my better judgement.
We are now going to go back to the regular formula and add rice to thicken it up - keeping it down better. We dealt with this with TJ so I am just thankful that we've been there and dealt with this already. I tell ya, if we were first time parents with twins, it would be even more hellish. Thank goodness for confidence in our own parenting skills!
Monday, June 16, 2008
Random thoughts from a tired mommy
First I want to say that I am sorry I haven't responded to all of the emails I've gotten! I am good to even check email or post a little something on the blog... which is easier to do than send out blanket emails to a list of people who may or may not care :)
First - TJ. He is the most awesome kid alive. Yeah, I am biased, but it is the damned truth. He has been the IDEAL big brother. He is taking everything in stride, proud to be a big brother, helpful, you name it. All the things I would have wanted from him (yet, not expected), he's managed to do. He is so awesome to us, his sisters... you name it. Dang, I love that kid!!
Second - the girls. They are doing well. Lauren is eating better, Katie is eating like mad. They are so very, very different. In everything they do (which is little, I know - but it is already super obvious).
Tim and I are sleeping in shifts and we sleep when we can when we are the one that is "up." We have devised a plan for when he goes back to work and I expect things will be tiresome for us both until they are better at sleeping and on a better schedule. We are tired, but working as a team and that's what counts.
Right now I am so happy. Happy that we are working together. Happy that my son is thrilled. Happy that my girls are here and happy. Happy to have reasons to be happy.
Yeah, I am tired, but so what. I have so much to live for right now :)
I must say though, that the past few days have been super tearful and I think it is from watching way too many tributes to Tim Russert. I really loved that guy. Tim and I both enjoyed watching him. He was my Sunday morning "date" on television. I think I really only watched it because of him more than his guests. What an awesome guy. And when he was on TV, it was like "Hey, it's Tim Russert - let's watch this!" He will be missed!
And some may appreciate the next bit - some may not understand or think I am crazy... but I am sharing anyway....
Ever since my Papaw died, I've felt very connected to his spirit. I've had dreams about him that I know were him coming to me... not just dreams. I felt like he's always found a way to communicate with me. He died just three weeks before I got married (and pregnant with TJ since that pretty much happened at the same time). He's come to me to tell me he is proud of me and watches over TJ. This has happened a good number of times and it makes me feel lucky for having such a wonderful man looking after us from above.
Well today, I was laying on the sofa while TJ was running around and the girls were snoozing in their bouncy seats. I closed my eyes and saw an image of my grandfather walking through the door into my house. I could feel him, his presence, and his words telling me how proud he was of me and how well I did on the girls. Again, no doubt in my mind that what I felt was as real as I am. The last time I felt him was in the exam room at Dr. C's office the day I found out I was pregnant. I felt like he, my grandma and Jessica were right there with me. I also swear I heard my grandmother telling me I was going to have a beautiful baby girl... perhaps she said baby girls :) But I HEARD her.
More reasons for me to feel lucky and blessed. Not only do I know how lucky we are to have such a healthy, happy family - but besides our losses and the sadness they bring, I know that there are at least three wonderful guardian angels looking out for us to make sure we remain lucky and blessed.
And yes, I owe everyone some pictures. I promise, they WILL get posted!
First - TJ. He is the most awesome kid alive. Yeah, I am biased, but it is the damned truth. He has been the IDEAL big brother. He is taking everything in stride, proud to be a big brother, helpful, you name it. All the things I would have wanted from him (yet, not expected), he's managed to do. He is so awesome to us, his sisters... you name it. Dang, I love that kid!!
Second - the girls. They are doing well. Lauren is eating better, Katie is eating like mad. They are so very, very different. In everything they do (which is little, I know - but it is already super obvious).
Tim and I are sleeping in shifts and we sleep when we can when we are the one that is "up." We have devised a plan for when he goes back to work and I expect things will be tiresome for us both until they are better at sleeping and on a better schedule. We are tired, but working as a team and that's what counts.
Right now I am so happy. Happy that we are working together. Happy that my son is thrilled. Happy that my girls are here and happy. Happy to have reasons to be happy.
Yeah, I am tired, but so what. I have so much to live for right now :)
I must say though, that the past few days have been super tearful and I think it is from watching way too many tributes to Tim Russert. I really loved that guy. Tim and I both enjoyed watching him. He was my Sunday morning "date" on television. I think I really only watched it because of him more than his guests. What an awesome guy. And when he was on TV, it was like "Hey, it's Tim Russert - let's watch this!" He will be missed!
And some may appreciate the next bit - some may not understand or think I am crazy... but I am sharing anyway....
Ever since my Papaw died, I've felt very connected to his spirit. I've had dreams about him that I know were him coming to me... not just dreams. I felt like he's always found a way to communicate with me. He died just three weeks before I got married (and pregnant with TJ since that pretty much happened at the same time). He's come to me to tell me he is proud of me and watches over TJ. This has happened a good number of times and it makes me feel lucky for having such a wonderful man looking after us from above.
Well today, I was laying on the sofa while TJ was running around and the girls were snoozing in their bouncy seats. I closed my eyes and saw an image of my grandfather walking through the door into my house. I could feel him, his presence, and his words telling me how proud he was of me and how well I did on the girls. Again, no doubt in my mind that what I felt was as real as I am. The last time I felt him was in the exam room at Dr. C's office the day I found out I was pregnant. I felt like he, my grandma and Jessica were right there with me. I also swear I heard my grandmother telling me I was going to have a beautiful baby girl... perhaps she said baby girls :) But I HEARD her.
More reasons for me to feel lucky and blessed. Not only do I know how lucky we are to have such a healthy, happy family - but besides our losses and the sadness they bring, I know that there are at least three wonderful guardian angels looking out for us to make sure we remain lucky and blessed.
And yes, I owe everyone some pictures. I promise, they WILL get posted!
Sunday, June 15, 2008
Hospital Pics
Not all of the pics are up ... don't know why!
http://www.infantxpress.com/nursery2.php?orgID=20070
Look for my name on June 10 and go from there :)
http://www.infantxpress.com/nursery2.php?orgID=20070
Look for my name on June 10 and go from there :)
Another update from the madness we call the Towle House
We are tired. Exhausted would be a better word for it. So, if you don't hear from us, you know why :)
Went to the pediatrician yesterday and Katherine is doing okay with weight, Lauren not so much. We have one baby that spits up a lot (Katie) and one that is a lazy, sleepy eater (Lauren). We are playing around with bottle nipples, a different formula, and "tactics" to get these kids eating right. It's just all a part of the game. We had similar issues with TJ when I tried to breastfeed him... so this isn't foreign to us.
We are back to the ped's office today to check weights and check again for jaundice. Their numbers (billiruben - sp?) are okay, but Lauren looks a little jaundiced to me... so even though that a lot of money in copays this weekend, at least I know they are being well looked after at the ped's office.
Pictures and more to come at a later time. We will be getting a picture of all the kids today ... all four of Tim's spawns (haha) for father's day.
More soon!
Went to the pediatrician yesterday and Katherine is doing okay with weight, Lauren not so much. We have one baby that spits up a lot (Katie) and one that is a lazy, sleepy eater (Lauren). We are playing around with bottle nipples, a different formula, and "tactics" to get these kids eating right. It's just all a part of the game. We had similar issues with TJ when I tried to breastfeed him... so this isn't foreign to us.
We are back to the ped's office today to check weights and check again for jaundice. Their numbers (billiruben - sp?) are okay, but Lauren looks a little jaundiced to me... so even though that a lot of money in copays this weekend, at least I know they are being well looked after at the ped's office.
Pictures and more to come at a later time. We will be getting a picture of all the kids today ... all four of Tim's spawns (haha) for father's day.
More soon!
Friday, June 13, 2008
Super Quick Update
We are home! Got discharged yesterday and am trying to figure out baby schedules and all those other wonderful things. If you call and I don't answer, please leave a message. I have my hands full and am still trying to recover from MAJOR swelling and the c-section, and still some high blood pressure.
We will update more when we have time. I am on the clock right now - race against time :) Will post more later!
Sorry - one more thing. We've been told by the doctors that we are NOT to have any visitors right now because these are pre-term babies and they need to be kept away from as many people as possible until their due date. Please understand we are not trying to be a pain in the butt! Once we get a thumbs-up from the doc for visitors, we will be sure to share the joy!!!!
We will update more when we have time. I am on the clock right now - race against time :) Will post more later!
Sorry - one more thing. We've been told by the doctors that we are NOT to have any visitors right now because these are pre-term babies and they need to be kept away from as many people as possible until their due date. Please understand we are not trying to be a pain in the butt! Once we get a thumbs-up from the doc for visitors, we will be sure to share the joy!!!!
Wednesday, June 11, 2008
Baby Update
The past 24+ hours have been a complete blur. I had a tiresome night, but I finally "sobered up" after I was taken of the magnesium and the morphine. I got up and walked around afterwards (this was about noonish) and I felt SO MUCH better. That was this morning.
We got the babies in the room quite early and when we moved from antepartum into the mother and baby floor, the babies went up shortly before us and then we had them pretty much until Tim went home around 10:30pm.
This is the part where my hormones go mad. I sit here, feeling sore, knowing damn well I need those girls in the nursery, but I ache for them to be in my room with me. Again, I know I need the rest but I'm in this room by myself - okay, me and my hormones, that is - and it SUCKS!!!! I can't wait for more percocet so I can get some rest and wake up for tomorrow.
I should be able to see my doc in the morning and hopefully I will be able to take a shower after that. Yes, a nice hot shower!! I will also see another of the pediatricians from the ped's office.
The first ped came in and told us the babies looked great. What's today - the 11th still?? So that means the first ped came in the evening the babies were born. Then this morning another ped came in and said that they looked really, really, really good. Which made ME feel good! I will see another ped in the morning and I can't wait to ask her about Katie's spitting up. After TJ was a refluxer, I worry about it being a problem with her because not only is she spitting up, but she looks like it really bothers her. Most likely (I hope), I am just being a very paranoid mom.
I've enjoyed spending the day with them. My mom pretty much decided she knew who Katherine looks like... and that would be Tim's mom. I agree! Lauren, on the other hand, reminds me a lot of TJ. Some of the faces she makes reminds me of TJ as an infant... 100%!
Both girls have more hair than TJ did. I honestly can't remember which one actually has a lot of hair on the back of her head. They've had hats on 95% of the time, so I haven't had much time to examine their little heads.
It's SO different to have much smaller babies this time around. TJ came out so chubby and these girls are far from it! Even with the size discrepancy, they still aren't as chunky as TJ was. It's a nice difference :)
Gosh I can't wait to go H-O-M-E! We hope to be discharged on Friday. KEEPING MY FINGERS CROSSED!
As for me, I am off the Gestational Diabetes diet - no more insulin or sugar testing. My swelling has returned, which I knew would come back... I just wasn't ready for it to come back so much so fast! Seriously, I feel almost as "filled" as I was when we came into the hospital.
Ugh - this is night 8 in the hospital... and hopefully only one more night to go. Like I said, I WISH I could go home tomorrow. That would be a dream come true... but we already feel so lucky, so blessed, that I feel like asking for anything more would push my luck!
Oh... before I forget to mention (as this is very important to all of us) - TJ got to hold his baby sisters today. He seemed really intimidated at first. This wasn't surprising because of his personality and I really anticipated it taking some time to warm up to the girls before he would want to hold one of them. He first helped me feel Lauren a bottle and then he eventually asked to hold Katie since she is the smallest of the two. He really had FUN holding his sister. He then wanted to do it again and again, but he eventually got a little tired of it and called it quits. Tim and I are both VERY proud of him as he was SOOOO good today. He was with us at the hospital for about 6 hours (give or take) and really hung in there.
I worry about TJ and his adjustment to having his sisters around. I worry about it a lot. I just want to get back into the swing of things at home so I can feel like his mommy again. It's so hard to feel like I've done enough for him while sitting in a hospital bed. Like I said, I just want to get home and get past this. Gosh - I have such a new-found respect for women who are literally bed-bound during pregnancy and even more for those who have to spend even more time in the hospital. It take a truly amazing mom and women to endure it. My experience is nothing compared to what it could have been. Again, we (I) feel so blessed!
As a special side note to Tim's co-workers... I can't thank you all enough for all that you've done for us. The flowers, warm wishes, gift card... it just gives us even more reason to feel so blessed and thankful. You all have been such a great part of our family and although I don't know all of you or all of you too well, I appreciate every single one of you. Your kindness and generosity are beyond compare and again, thank you so much.
The Towle Family - all of us - are so thankful for everything we've been blessed with. A happy family, healthy children, a roof over our head, friends and family that love us, and the sense to know just how good we have it. We truly are thankful.
Once I've got more pictures to share (rather, download from the camera), I will post either on our website or on PhotoBucket... and we will post a link here. So, if you are interested in the latest, just keep checking here or email me at my mchsi.com email address. If you know me, you should have it by now!
Loves & Hugs,
The Towle Family
PS - any spelling or grammar errors can be blamed on pain pills, pain, exhaustion, elation.... you know....
We got the babies in the room quite early and when we moved from antepartum into the mother and baby floor, the babies went up shortly before us and then we had them pretty much until Tim went home around 10:30pm.
This is the part where my hormones go mad. I sit here, feeling sore, knowing damn well I need those girls in the nursery, but I ache for them to be in my room with me. Again, I know I need the rest but I'm in this room by myself - okay, me and my hormones, that is - and it SUCKS!!!! I can't wait for more percocet so I can get some rest and wake up for tomorrow.
I should be able to see my doc in the morning and hopefully I will be able to take a shower after that. Yes, a nice hot shower!! I will also see another of the pediatricians from the ped's office.
The first ped came in and told us the babies looked great. What's today - the 11th still?? So that means the first ped came in the evening the babies were born. Then this morning another ped came in and said that they looked really, really, really good. Which made ME feel good! I will see another ped in the morning and I can't wait to ask her about Katie's spitting up. After TJ was a refluxer, I worry about it being a problem with her because not only is she spitting up, but she looks like it really bothers her. Most likely (I hope), I am just being a very paranoid mom.
I've enjoyed spending the day with them. My mom pretty much decided she knew who Katherine looks like... and that would be Tim's mom. I agree! Lauren, on the other hand, reminds me a lot of TJ. Some of the faces she makes reminds me of TJ as an infant... 100%!
Both girls have more hair than TJ did. I honestly can't remember which one actually has a lot of hair on the back of her head. They've had hats on 95% of the time, so I haven't had much time to examine their little heads.
It's SO different to have much smaller babies this time around. TJ came out so chubby and these girls are far from it! Even with the size discrepancy, they still aren't as chunky as TJ was. It's a nice difference :)
Gosh I can't wait to go H-O-M-E! We hope to be discharged on Friday. KEEPING MY FINGERS CROSSED!
As for me, I am off the Gestational Diabetes diet - no more insulin or sugar testing. My swelling has returned, which I knew would come back... I just wasn't ready for it to come back so much so fast! Seriously, I feel almost as "filled" as I was when we came into the hospital.
Ugh - this is night 8 in the hospital... and hopefully only one more night to go. Like I said, I WISH I could go home tomorrow. That would be a dream come true... but we already feel so lucky, so blessed, that I feel like asking for anything more would push my luck!
Oh... before I forget to mention (as this is very important to all of us) - TJ got to hold his baby sisters today. He seemed really intimidated at first. This wasn't surprising because of his personality and I really anticipated it taking some time to warm up to the girls before he would want to hold one of them. He first helped me feel Lauren a bottle and then he eventually asked to hold Katie since she is the smallest of the two. He really had FUN holding his sister. He then wanted to do it again and again, but he eventually got a little tired of it and called it quits. Tim and I are both VERY proud of him as he was SOOOO good today. He was with us at the hospital for about 6 hours (give or take) and really hung in there.
I worry about TJ and his adjustment to having his sisters around. I worry about it a lot. I just want to get back into the swing of things at home so I can feel like his mommy again. It's so hard to feel like I've done enough for him while sitting in a hospital bed. Like I said, I just want to get home and get past this. Gosh - I have such a new-found respect for women who are literally bed-bound during pregnancy and even more for those who have to spend even more time in the hospital. It take a truly amazing mom and women to endure it. My experience is nothing compared to what it could have been. Again, we (I) feel so blessed!
As a special side note to Tim's co-workers... I can't thank you all enough for all that you've done for us. The flowers, warm wishes, gift card... it just gives us even more reason to feel so blessed and thankful. You all have been such a great part of our family and although I don't know all of you or all of you too well, I appreciate every single one of you. Your kindness and generosity are beyond compare and again, thank you so much.
The Towle Family - all of us - are so thankful for everything we've been blessed with. A happy family, healthy children, a roof over our head, friends and family that love us, and the sense to know just how good we have it. We truly are thankful.
Once I've got more pictures to share (rather, download from the camera), I will post either on our website or on PhotoBucket... and we will post a link here. So, if you are interested in the latest, just keep checking here or email me at my mchsi.com email address. If you know me, you should have it by now!
Loves & Hugs,
The Towle Family
PS - any spelling or grammar errors can be blamed on pain pills, pain, exhaustion, elation.... you know....
Introducing You to Katherine & Lauren!
Our big wish came true! Katherine Elizabeth & Lauren Elaina came into the world, full of gusto on June 10th!
For those of you who don't already know this, the 10th is a special day because Tim was born on August 10th, I was born September 10th and we got married October 10th. We were hoping TJ was to be born on July 10th, but I was just as pleased with the 15th because my favorite number is 5 and 15 is a pretty good number, too....
So, the evening on the 9th was a little rough for me. My BP was in the 160's over 90's and my head started to really pound at bed time. When Dr. C came in to see me Tuesday morning, I told her and she saw the numbers and said that this trend was dangerous and it was time to get them out! I was SHOCKED and THRILLED! Dr. C knew just how much we would love the 10th, so she was pretty happy about it for us and gave me a high-five! YAY!
So I called Tim, crying and told him he needed to come to the hospital because today was the day! We had already arranged for Mom to watch TJ so Tim could go to work for a few days while we waited (since things seemed to be going pretty slow). He made his way to the hospital and before I knew it, our time to go to the OR was there! TJ and mom had already made it up here to the hospital so I could love on him before we went back.
I wasn't scared or anxious or even nervous until I saw the wheelchair for me to ride into the OR. I wanted to cry, sing, giggle, puke... you name it. It was REALLY happening!
My spinal block was a little torturous (if you can have a "little" torture). I heard the guys behind me whispering while I was telling them how I had pains and they seemed a little concerned. I also felt like I was going to fall off the table so I was pretty uncomfortable. Before I knew it, Tim was in there and they were elbow-deep in baby... rather, in my uterus :)
Katherine - Baby A - had flipped breech in just the past couple of days. So Dr. C was amazed with how much fluid the girls had around them which is why they were allowed to move so much. They pulled her out and I heard her screaming and my tears just started running. What a beautiful sound!
Lauren - Baby B - came just a minute later and had just as much good lung on her as her sister.
From the left...
Katherine Elizabeth Towle
5 pounds 13 ounces
18 inches long
Born at 12:21 pm
Lauren Elaina Towle
7 pounds 1 ounce
19 inches long
Born at 12:22 pm
Both have a little bit of hair, but they do look different in addition to the fact that they are so different in size.
Right now I am still hooked up to a catheter because of the preeclampsia. I am on a magnesium IV drip to help prevent seizures (related to the preeclampsia). I was told that this would make me feel like I had the flu - like I had been hit by a truck and other not-so-happy sounding descriptions. I am also on a morphine pump for pain which means I start to fall asleep while sitting up pretty easily :)
I should also mention that the girls did SO well that they've been allowed to stay in the Well Baby ward rather than having to go to the NICU! I was so prepared for them to go and was thrilled to know I could have them come to me rather than me to them!
I saw them after they were born, but I had recovery time and had to wait for them until 4pm-ish (I think) before I got to see them. We fed them a little bit of formula (I can't breastfeed because of a past breast reduction) and got to love on them both for a little while until Tim left to get some dinner and a small gift for TJ (from his sisters). I have to have someone in the room with me when I have the girls, so they can't room-in for now. I am also still in the antepartum portion of the hospital because of the mag drip and something having to do with patient to nurse ratio. I got to seem them again for a little while before Tim left to go home for the night.
I can't wait to start feeling better so I can do more with the girls. As far as things are still good, we should be able to leave on Friday or Saturday! YAY! At home, with babies on Father's Day!
I am so totally out of it already... and wish I could write more details, but it just isn't going to happen right this moment.
Once I can, I will uplaod more pictures and will share!
HAPPY BIRTHDAY KATHERINE & LAUREN!
For those of you who don't already know this, the 10th is a special day because Tim was born on August 10th, I was born September 10th and we got married October 10th. We were hoping TJ was to be born on July 10th, but I was just as pleased with the 15th because my favorite number is 5 and 15 is a pretty good number, too....
So, the evening on the 9th was a little rough for me. My BP was in the 160's over 90's and my head started to really pound at bed time. When Dr. C came in to see me Tuesday morning, I told her and she saw the numbers and said that this trend was dangerous and it was time to get them out! I was SHOCKED and THRILLED! Dr. C knew just how much we would love the 10th, so she was pretty happy about it for us and gave me a high-five! YAY!
So I called Tim, crying and told him he needed to come to the hospital because today was the day! We had already arranged for Mom to watch TJ so Tim could go to work for a few days while we waited (since things seemed to be going pretty slow). He made his way to the hospital and before I knew it, our time to go to the OR was there! TJ and mom had already made it up here to the hospital so I could love on him before we went back.
I wasn't scared or anxious or even nervous until I saw the wheelchair for me to ride into the OR. I wanted to cry, sing, giggle, puke... you name it. It was REALLY happening!
My spinal block was a little torturous (if you can have a "little" torture). I heard the guys behind me whispering while I was telling them how I had pains and they seemed a little concerned. I also felt like I was going to fall off the table so I was pretty uncomfortable. Before I knew it, Tim was in there and they were elbow-deep in baby... rather, in my uterus :)
Katherine - Baby A - had flipped breech in just the past couple of days. So Dr. C was amazed with how much fluid the girls had around them which is why they were allowed to move so much. They pulled her out and I heard her screaming and my tears just started running. What a beautiful sound!
Lauren - Baby B - came just a minute later and had just as much good lung on her as her sister.
From the left...Katherine Elizabeth Towle
5 pounds 13 ounces
18 inches long
Born at 12:21 pm
Lauren Elaina Towle
7 pounds 1 ounce
19 inches long
Born at 12:22 pm
Both have a little bit of hair, but they do look different in addition to the fact that they are so different in size.
Right now I am still hooked up to a catheter because of the preeclampsia. I am on a magnesium IV drip to help prevent seizures (related to the preeclampsia). I was told that this would make me feel like I had the flu - like I had been hit by a truck and other not-so-happy sounding descriptions. I am also on a morphine pump for pain which means I start to fall asleep while sitting up pretty easily :)
I should also mention that the girls did SO well that they've been allowed to stay in the Well Baby ward rather than having to go to the NICU! I was so prepared for them to go and was thrilled to know I could have them come to me rather than me to them!
I saw them after they were born, but I had recovery time and had to wait for them until 4pm-ish (I think) before I got to see them. We fed them a little bit of formula (I can't breastfeed because of a past breast reduction) and got to love on them both for a little while until Tim left to get some dinner and a small gift for TJ (from his sisters). I have to have someone in the room with me when I have the girls, so they can't room-in for now. I am also still in the antepartum portion of the hospital because of the mag drip and something having to do with patient to nurse ratio. I got to seem them again for a little while before Tim left to go home for the night.
I can't wait to start feeling better so I can do more with the girls. As far as things are still good, we should be able to leave on Friday or Saturday! YAY! At home, with babies on Father's Day!
I am so totally out of it already... and wish I could write more details, but it just isn't going to happen right this moment.
Once I can, I will uplaod more pictures and will share!
HAPPY BIRTHDAY KATHERINE & LAUREN!
Monday, June 9, 2008
Par for the Course
Swelling, anxiety, elevated blood pressure. It's all par for the preeclampsia course. Good thing is that my blood work is coming back fine - liver function, all that good stuff. I had a bit of heart fluttering last night and that made me feel really anxious... which just made things worse. They gave me some Ambien and it knocked me on my rear! I slept a lot and had a sort of sleepy hangover because of it. After a couple cups of coffee after lunch, I FINALLY woke up enough to feel a little more aware.
I haven't have much of an appetite today and noticed that my belly is really starting to show more stretch marks since Saturday. Good reason, too... Baby A flipped and is now breech! Not that it matters, as we already planned a C-Section, but she feels so high up and I am more uncomfortable now than ever!
The ultrasound tech has gotten some AMAZING pictures on the 2D machine. I've been both of the girls' faces. Of course, it isn't as clear as what you see in a 3 or 4D ultrasound, but I can see little cheeks, lips, nose, forehead... it is completely amazing to me. I wish I could scan than and upload them on the site. They are SO COOL! Again, not as cool as a machine made to see them that clear, but I never anticipated getting these kinds of images from a 2D machine. Plus the photos are about the size of a 5x7 and they are on photo paper, so they will last for a while.
I really wish my water would break already - but then again I am glad it hasn't. I don't want the girls coming out any sooner than they should be here, but I am really starting to feel extremely secluded from the rest of the world. Thank goodness for CNN! There's one thing I won't be doing anytime soon... and that's watching any more of the crazy baby and birthing shows on Discovery Health. Oh my goodness... I learned my lesson yesterday. It doesn't matter if the story is happy or sad, it makes me want to boohoo. Last night on Discovery Health, they started Baby Week of with a show "I didn't know I was pregnant." Four or more women were showcased, each not knowing they were pregnant. One was actually pregnant with TWINS and didn't know it! CRAZY! When I talked to Dr. C about it she told me a crazy story about a syndrome where women are convinced they ARE pregnant when they aren't and while she was in residency she saw a case of that and that Huntsville Hospital only sees the "I didn't know I was pregnant" birth only once every couple of years. Crazy, I tell you!
So, that's where we are today. If and when things change, we will update our blog!
I haven't have much of an appetite today and noticed that my belly is really starting to show more stretch marks since Saturday. Good reason, too... Baby A flipped and is now breech! Not that it matters, as we already planned a C-Section, but she feels so high up and I am more uncomfortable now than ever!
The ultrasound tech has gotten some AMAZING pictures on the 2D machine. I've been both of the girls' faces. Of course, it isn't as clear as what you see in a 3 or 4D ultrasound, but I can see little cheeks, lips, nose, forehead... it is completely amazing to me. I wish I could scan than and upload them on the site. They are SO COOL! Again, not as cool as a machine made to see them that clear, but I never anticipated getting these kinds of images from a 2D machine. Plus the photos are about the size of a 5x7 and they are on photo paper, so they will last for a while.
I really wish my water would break already - but then again I am glad it hasn't. I don't want the girls coming out any sooner than they should be here, but I am really starting to feel extremely secluded from the rest of the world. Thank goodness for CNN! There's one thing I won't be doing anytime soon... and that's watching any more of the crazy baby and birthing shows on Discovery Health. Oh my goodness... I learned my lesson yesterday. It doesn't matter if the story is happy or sad, it makes me want to boohoo. Last night on Discovery Health, they started Baby Week of with a show "I didn't know I was pregnant." Four or more women were showcased, each not knowing they were pregnant. One was actually pregnant with TWINS and didn't know it! CRAZY! When I talked to Dr. C about it she told me a crazy story about a syndrome where women are convinced they ARE pregnant when they aren't and while she was in residency she saw a case of that and that Huntsville Hospital only sees the "I didn't know I was pregnant" birth only once every couple of years. Crazy, I tell you!
So, that's where we are today. If and when things change, we will update our blog!
Friday, June 6, 2008
Tales of Woe from a Hospital Bed
I can't really update our Towle Twins website, so I might as well share what I can here on our family blog.
On Monday, we had our regular appointment with Dr. C for our BPP. Girls looked good and everything was as it should be. Then, I stepped on the scales. A drum roll is appropriate here... as I gained 12 (or was it 13?) pounds since the previous Tuesday. No, those cheeseburgers didn't finally catch up with me. It was pretty much all fluid. So my doc sent me for lab work and a 24 urine collection to check for preeclampsia. Tests came back positive. My labs were okay, but the protein in my urine was double the highest acceptable level. Hi-ho, hi-ho, it's off to the hospital we go.
We are monitoring the babies once a day with an NST (non-stress test), which means they put monitors on my belly and measure their heart rates and movements for a while. As of right now, they've been doing well. We are also doing more BPPs (bio physical profiles via ultrasound) every Monday and Thursday. The one yesterday shows everything is good. The girls are good. THIS, to me is the most important part.
I, on the other hand, am having a few more problems. My blood pressure is elevated. When I rest it is acceptable, but sitting up for an extended period of time and even getting up to use the bathroom causes it to elevate even more. It isn't so high that I am even more at risk of problems like a stroke or heart attack (which could happen if I were not being monitored), but it's enough to warrant more time laying on my side.
Being at the hospital is no picnic. I miss my home, my family (son, husband, even my dogs) and all the other comforts of home. I HATE asking for a snack when I am hungry. I HATE asking for water when I am thirsty. The food is okay, but I hate the schedules. At least my doc has it so that I can sleep at night and just let them know when I am up so they can come and check my vitals. This way I am getting uninterrupted sleep... at least for now.
So, the plan now is to have a C-Section on the 18th if not sooner. I am just going with the flow and we aren't planning on anything too far in advance.
Thanks to everyone and their well wishes. I hope to be able to update with good new soon. I am 35 weeks today and that's a good place to have made it with twins. From this point on we just want their lungs to keep maturing so when they come out they don't need any added attention for lung problems. I'd also like to avoid extended NICU time if at all possible.
I keep telling myself that what will be will be and these babies will come out exactly when they are supposed to. It's the waiting game that stinks!
So for now, just keep all of us in your thoughts.
On Monday, we had our regular appointment with Dr. C for our BPP. Girls looked good and everything was as it should be. Then, I stepped on the scales. A drum roll is appropriate here... as I gained 12 (or was it 13?) pounds since the previous Tuesday. No, those cheeseburgers didn't finally catch up with me. It was pretty much all fluid. So my doc sent me for lab work and a 24 urine collection to check for preeclampsia. Tests came back positive. My labs were okay, but the protein in my urine was double the highest acceptable level. Hi-ho, hi-ho, it's off to the hospital we go.
We are monitoring the babies once a day with an NST (non-stress test), which means they put monitors on my belly and measure their heart rates and movements for a while. As of right now, they've been doing well. We are also doing more BPPs (bio physical profiles via ultrasound) every Monday and Thursday. The one yesterday shows everything is good. The girls are good. THIS, to me is the most important part.
I, on the other hand, am having a few more problems. My blood pressure is elevated. When I rest it is acceptable, but sitting up for an extended period of time and even getting up to use the bathroom causes it to elevate even more. It isn't so high that I am even more at risk of problems like a stroke or heart attack (which could happen if I were not being monitored), but it's enough to warrant more time laying on my side.
Being at the hospital is no picnic. I miss my home, my family (son, husband, even my dogs) and all the other comforts of home. I HATE asking for a snack when I am hungry. I HATE asking for water when I am thirsty. The food is okay, but I hate the schedules. At least my doc has it so that I can sleep at night and just let them know when I am up so they can come and check my vitals. This way I am getting uninterrupted sleep... at least for now.
So, the plan now is to have a C-Section on the 18th if not sooner. I am just going with the flow and we aren't planning on anything too far in advance.
Thanks to everyone and their well wishes. I hope to be able to update with good new soon. I am 35 weeks today and that's a good place to have made it with twins. From this point on we just want their lungs to keep maturing so when they come out they don't need any added attention for lung problems. I'd also like to avoid extended NICU time if at all possible.
I keep telling myself that what will be will be and these babies will come out exactly when they are supposed to. It's the waiting game that stinks!
So for now, just keep all of us in your thoughts.
Tuesday, June 3, 2008
Still [somewhat] Functioning
My computer is almost back to normal after the crash on Friday. Totally bites... I had to reload all my programs, but at least my files and personal settings remained - THANK GOODNESS! As for me... my levels of function are almost nil.
I have a new found respect for women who carry more than just two at a time. Especially those who carry more than two and go more than 30 weeks. I can't believe I am 34+ weeks along because I fell MORE than full term at this moment. The swelling is uncontrollable, my ability to walk is almost at a stand-still, and my level of comfort while sitting or even laying down is, at best, bearable. It is horrible. Being this pregnant with two babies is just a horrible feeling. On the other hand, I will never take for granted what I have with this... two blessings waiting to arrive into this world and depend solely on Tim and me for their care and love. I can guarantee this... I will NEVER do this again. NEVER EVER EVER!
I have a new found respect for women who carry more than just two at a time. Especially those who carry more than two and go more than 30 weeks. I can't believe I am 34+ weeks along because I fell MORE than full term at this moment. The swelling is uncontrollable, my ability to walk is almost at a stand-still, and my level of comfort while sitting or even laying down is, at best, bearable. It is horrible. Being this pregnant with two babies is just a horrible feeling. On the other hand, I will never take for granted what I have with this... two blessings waiting to arrive into this world and depend solely on Tim and me for their care and love. I can guarantee this... I will NEVER do this again. NEVER EVER EVER!
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