Thursday, March 31, 2005
Birth Announcement Publications
This posting is really for the grandparents because I'm not sure who else might care but we are publishing the birth announcement in the Prince George Citizen [Thurs, March 31 edition], the Vancouver Sun and Vancouver Province [Mon, April 4 editions] and the next editions of the Merritt Herald and Surrey News Leader [Wed. Apr 6 and Friday, April 1]. Collect them all for your scrapbooking pleasure!
Wednesday, March 30, 2005
Calum and Mom have a quiet day
Calum and I are just sitting here cuddling today. I still have to finish my invoices but I don't know if I'll get much done before Don gets home. My little one doesn't want to take a nap and doesn't want to be put down again. He had a good night last night, waking up only a couple of times. He did a good job of getting Don and I up in the morning too. We have both slept through the alarm and Calum made sure we got up when he gave out a big cry. Right now he is telling me stories and demanding attention. He's really got me wrapped around his little fingers.
Tomorrow we have an appointment with an audiologist to get his hearing checked. I think everything is fine but we want to make sure. It's to be about a half hour test and the doctor said that it would be best if he was a little sleepy when we went. I don't know about that but we can always hope, right? On Friday Calum also has his next appointment with his doctor. It will just be a check up but we will get to see how much weight the little guy has gained. I'm guessing that he will be close to 8 pounds now. He certainly is feeling a lot heavier.
Other items on are agenda today are a walk this afternoon and a trip to the mailbox to send off Calum's registration materials - we can't register him with Don's Band until we have the birth certificate so we have to send that off soon. Yes, we decided to register him with Don's band but he will always have the option of switching to mine if they don't treat him right. Oh, I also have to follow up on with several newspapers about placing his birth announcement. We are going to plaster the newspapers to get the word out [not that his dad hasn't already done a good job of this]. Well, better go and try to work on those invoices, Calum has decided he needs a short nap and has passed out next to me. He'll be up in an hour to eat again so I have a very narrow window to get anything else done.
Take care!
Tomorrow we have an appointment with an audiologist to get his hearing checked. I think everything is fine but we want to make sure. It's to be about a half hour test and the doctor said that it would be best if he was a little sleepy when we went. I don't know about that but we can always hope, right? On Friday Calum also has his next appointment with his doctor. It will just be a check up but we will get to see how much weight the little guy has gained. I'm guessing that he will be close to 8 pounds now. He certainly is feeling a lot heavier.
Other items on are agenda today are a walk this afternoon and a trip to the mailbox to send off Calum's registration materials - we can't register him with Don's Band until we have the birth certificate so we have to send that off soon. Yes, we decided to register him with Don's band but he will always have the option of switching to mine if they don't treat him right. Oh, I also have to follow up on with several newspapers about placing his birth announcement. We are going to plaster the newspapers to get the word out [not that his dad hasn't already done a good job of this]. Well, better go and try to work on those invoices, Calum has decided he needs a short nap and has passed out next to me. He'll be up in an hour to eat again so I have a very narrow window to get anything else done.
Take care!
Monday, March 28, 2005
Another sleepless night
Calum was not at all sleepy last night. This of course, meant that I could not be sleepy either. We had a nap just before going to bed and wouldn't you know it but he woke up as soon as we climbed in bed and decided to feed for 2 hours. When he still wouldn't settle, Calum and I got in and out of bed for a few hours then decided to just get up and go to the living room. Another old episode of X-Files, several movies, a couple of stories, two diaper changes, and several attempts of filling his belly later we finally dozed off for awhile. All told, I think we only got about 1 hour of sleep. Though the nurse recommended that I wait awhile before expressing milk I think I'm going to be doing it sooner rather than later. It's time Don got to share in the fun of the late night feedings, pacings, and generally entertainings. Or maybe I just need a nap today.
We had a nice dinner at home yesterday with Don's family. Don's mom did most of the cooking and even brought paper plates and cups. The girls were pleased with this because helping with the dishes would have fallen to them. Don and I had very little to do and Calum was being passed from person to person so he got all the cuddles he wanted. He was particularly good for his grandma and grandpa. We had another little incident while changing him and he ended up going through 4 outfits over the course of the day. I've nicknamed him the "soggy bottom boy" on days such as those. Oh, we also found out that he is getting used to his baths but hates to have his bottom washed.
Don thinks that Calum is going to be a real little story teller. He makes the cutest little noises when he wants to get your attention. It sounds something like a little lion. It's hard to describe but he is constantly doing it so we are convinced that he is trying to tell us something already. What a funny boy he is.
Hope you all enjoyed your long weekend. I've just learned that the girls have tomorrow off from school too. Just how many days off do kids get these days?
We had a nice dinner at home yesterday with Don's family. Don's mom did most of the cooking and even brought paper plates and cups. The girls were pleased with this because helping with the dishes would have fallen to them. Don and I had very little to do and Calum was being passed from person to person so he got all the cuddles he wanted. He was particularly good for his grandma and grandpa. We had another little incident while changing him and he ended up going through 4 outfits over the course of the day. I've nicknamed him the "soggy bottom boy" on days such as those. Oh, we also found out that he is getting used to his baths but hates to have his bottom washed.
Don thinks that Calum is going to be a real little story teller. He makes the cutest little noises when he wants to get your attention. It sounds something like a little lion. It's hard to describe but he is constantly doing it so we are convinced that he is trying to tell us something already. What a funny boy he is.
Hope you all enjoyed your long weekend. I've just learned that the girls have tomorrow off from school too. Just how many days off do kids get these days?
Wednesday, March 23, 2005
7lbs, 7oz
Wow, Calum is growing. We took him into see his new doctor today and found out that he now weighs 7lbs, 7 oz. That's a gain of about 1 oz a day. I thought his little cheeks were filling out a lot. His doctor checked him over and declared him a very healthy baby boy. We were able to show him off to Dr. Ross and the nurses too.
Dakota and I took him to the mall after his appointment. He was such a good boy today. He barely complained the whole 3 hours we were away from home. It sure was nice to get out too. Tomorrow we are planning a nice long walk if the weather holds out. He seems happy in his stroller or in his Baby Bjorn. He likes to be cuddled the best though so Dakota and I have spent a few hours this afternoon just holding him. He's so warm and soft that he lulls me to sleep everytime.
Don asked me last night what else I was wishing for. I wanted a cuddle bunny and we got one. I wanted a boy and we got one. Maybe if my luck holds out we will have a book loving, computer programming, music loving boy! If not, well, he's just too cute the way that he is now so I'm happy.
Dakota and I took him to the mall after his appointment. He was such a good boy today. He barely complained the whole 3 hours we were away from home. It sure was nice to get out too. Tomorrow we are planning a nice long walk if the weather holds out. He seems happy in his stroller or in his Baby Bjorn. He likes to be cuddled the best though so Dakota and I have spent a few hours this afternoon just holding him. He's so warm and soft that he lulls me to sleep everytime.
Don asked me last night what else I was wishing for. I wanted a cuddle bunny and we got one. I wanted a boy and we got one. Maybe if my luck holds out we will have a book loving, computer programming, music loving boy! If not, well, he's just too cute the way that he is now so I'm happy.
Tuesday, March 22, 2005
Very much in need of exercise
Yesterday, Dakota and I decided to take Calum for a small walk. We didn't go far, just down to the corner store for ice cream. Mind you, the way back was a bit of a walk. It's uphill and while not overly far, it was a bit taxing for me. I guess I'm a bit off from being totally recovered. I had to stop a few times just to make it up the hill. Calum and I are really going to have to start taking daily walks just so I can be ready to start chasing him around when he hits the toddler stage.
In other news, we experimented last night with having Calum sleep with us rather than in his crib. It was more out of desperation on my part - I needed some sleep and Calum wouldn't settle in his crib. He only woke up a few times - 2:30, 5:30 and 7:30 - and only then for a quick snack then back to sleep. I'm feeling so much better today because of it but will have to find another way to get him to settle in his crib. Afterall, his poor dad did work hard to get it put together for him. Right now he is napping with Dakota on the couch. Our little guy sure likes to snuggle.
We've got some more pictures that we will be posting soon - these from the 35mm that Don had scanned onto CD-Rom. Look for an update soon.
In other news, we experimented last night with having Calum sleep with us rather than in his crib. It was more out of desperation on my part - I needed some sleep and Calum wouldn't settle in his crib. He only woke up a few times - 2:30, 5:30 and 7:30 - and only then for a quick snack then back to sleep. I'm feeling so much better today because of it but will have to find another way to get him to settle in his crib. Afterall, his poor dad did work hard to get it put together for him. Right now he is napping with Dakota on the couch. Our little guy sure likes to snuggle.
We've got some more pictures that we will be posting soon - these from the 35mm that Don had scanned onto CD-Rom. Look for an update soon.
Monday, March 21, 2005
Huzzah for Baby Bjorn!
Okay, decided to try out the Baby Bjorn carrier today so I could strap my snuggle bunny to me and still get something done. Wonder of wonders, it works and Calum is sleeping peacefully at the moment. It also has the added bonus that we are both warm and toasty.
I love my little guy but he sure doesn't like sleeping in his crib at night. Last night we got up at 1:30 and didn't get back to bed till 5am. I watched a movie between his snacking and even an old episode of X-Files. That sure brought back some memories. Also, Calum was fussy last night so somehow he ended up in our bed. We were all nice and cozy, even after Don got up and left for work. Calum and I slept in till 8:30 then got up for breakfast and our baths. Well, Calum fell back asleep and didn't actually have his bath till 11:30 but it gave me the chance to get caught up on some email.
Don's back at work today but is feeling pretty bad. Dakota has got a cough but is keeping herself busy planning the purchase of some new Chucks (some kinda shoe) and watching movies she has seen over a dozen times. Desiree is off at the mall then going over to visit her boyfriend. All is quiet and work seems many miles away. I've got a few invoices to submit though so I'll have to think about it sometime today. For now, I'm just going to sit and enjoy the snuggling. Happy Monday all.
I love my little guy but he sure doesn't like sleeping in his crib at night. Last night we got up at 1:30 and didn't get back to bed till 5am. I watched a movie between his snacking and even an old episode of X-Files. That sure brought back some memories. Also, Calum was fussy last night so somehow he ended up in our bed. We were all nice and cozy, even after Don got up and left for work. Calum and I slept in till 8:30 then got up for breakfast and our baths. Well, Calum fell back asleep and didn't actually have his bath till 11:30 but it gave me the chance to get caught up on some email.
Don's back at work today but is feeling pretty bad. Dakota has got a cough but is keeping herself busy planning the purchase of some new Chucks (some kinda shoe) and watching movies she has seen over a dozen times. Desiree is off at the mall then going over to visit her boyfriend. All is quiet and work seems many miles away. I've got a few invoices to submit though so I'll have to think about it sometime today. For now, I'm just going to sit and enjoy the snuggling. Happy Monday all.
Saturday, March 19, 2005
What? A week already!
Yup, I was sitting at home last night holding Calum and thinking about what I was doing around the same time last week. It's hard to believe that the first week has passed so quickly. Dad was sleeping, Desiree was out with friends and Dakota was watching t.v. so Calum and I observed the occassion of his first week together. He celebrated with milk, I just stuck with water. For such a little guy he sure sucks up the love and attention. I must admit that I do have a tough time letting him sleep quietly in his crib. I too often want to cuddle him.
This morning he lost his umbilical cord stump. We had been warned that it could get to smelling rather foul so we are very happy to be done with it. We had a visit from the community health nurse yesterday and she helped clean it and predicted it would fall off today. Oh, we got to weigh him too and are happy to report he has regained his birth weight plus an ounce. He should be growing an extra ounce a day now so in a month or two he will be a very healthy little boy.
Don's feeling a bit under the weather today and the girls have started spring break. Next Wednesday Calum and I visit his new doctor. Dr. Ross is so busy that she can only take on new prenatal patients but the other doctor is one of two others that share her office so I think it will go well. All you book lovers out there will be happy to know that Calum and I have started our story time. I've read him his first books as we lay down for a nap today and he just went right to sleep. Let's hope it continues because it is a trick I may need at night. Last night, Calum decided he wanted to be wide awake at 2, 3, 4, 5, and 6 am. Finally I gave in and we had a small nap together in the living room until I got up for a shower. Calum made sure to wake Don and Dakota up while I was otherwise occupied. That's my boy!
This morning he lost his umbilical cord stump. We had been warned that it could get to smelling rather foul so we are very happy to be done with it. We had a visit from the community health nurse yesterday and she helped clean it and predicted it would fall off today. Oh, we got to weigh him too and are happy to report he has regained his birth weight plus an ounce. He should be growing an extra ounce a day now so in a month or two he will be a very healthy little boy.
Don's feeling a bit under the weather today and the girls have started spring break. Next Wednesday Calum and I visit his new doctor. Dr. Ross is so busy that she can only take on new prenatal patients but the other doctor is one of two others that share her office so I think it will go well. All you book lovers out there will be happy to know that Calum and I have started our story time. I've read him his first books as we lay down for a nap today and he just went right to sleep. Let's hope it continues because it is a trick I may need at night. Last night, Calum decided he wanted to be wide awake at 2, 3, 4, 5, and 6 am. Finally I gave in and we had a small nap together in the living room until I got up for a shower. Calum made sure to wake Don and Dakota up while I was otherwise occupied. That's my boy!
Friday, March 18, 2005
Calum's Grand Day Out
I've gotta make this a quick post because one thing that you learn with little ones is that there is very little time for anything but quickness. Calum had his first outing yesterday. Don and I took him down to his office to show him off. Don tried to convince me that we were going down to drop off some film for development but I knew he had to get into the office before the weekend just to stay in touch. Fair enough, afterall, he has been so busy taking care of us at home that I'm sure his staff are missing him very much.
We also managed a visit to a friend's house to pick up more baby stuff. Calum now has lots of toys and even more clothes. They sure go through those little t-shirts and sleepers - not to mention the many diaper changes.
Dakota and I have both been christened by him this week. Word of warning - watch which end of the baby you are sitting at during all diaper changes. I told Dakota that it is good luck to be the first target so it made her feel a little better. I must have the mom gene kicking in because it didn't bother me at all. Either that or I'm pretty sleepy.
Health-wise, we are all doing well. Calum will meet his new doctor soon and we have to schedule a home visit with the community health nurse. I'm feeling loads better, especially since Don and the girls took over this morning and let me get a 2 hour nap in after they all got up. Calum gets very alert at night and doesn't like to be put down in his crib. There is no way I want to try sleeping with him in our bed so I fight sleep throughout the nightly feeding/play session while he happily cuddles and learns more about the world around him.
Oh, gotta go. Someone sounds hungry again. I'm sure it's been a whole hour since he had his last meal. It's a lucky thing he is so cute. Happy weekend all.
We also managed a visit to a friend's house to pick up more baby stuff. Calum now has lots of toys and even more clothes. They sure go through those little t-shirts and sleepers - not to mention the many diaper changes.
Dakota and I have both been christened by him this week. Word of warning - watch which end of the baby you are sitting at during all diaper changes. I told Dakota that it is good luck to be the first target so it made her feel a little better. I must have the mom gene kicking in because it didn't bother me at all. Either that or I'm pretty sleepy.
Health-wise, we are all doing well. Calum will meet his new doctor soon and we have to schedule a home visit with the community health nurse. I'm feeling loads better, especially since Don and the girls took over this morning and let me get a 2 hour nap in after they all got up. Calum gets very alert at night and doesn't like to be put down in his crib. There is no way I want to try sleeping with him in our bed so I fight sleep throughout the nightly feeding/play session while he happily cuddles and learns more about the world around him.
Oh, gotta go. Someone sounds hungry again. I'm sure it's been a whole hour since he had his last meal. It's a lucky thing he is so cute. Happy weekend all.
Thursday, March 17, 2005
Wednesday, March 16, 2005
Life according to Calum
Day 5 and our boy is adjusting well to life outside of the womb. We are all still easily amused by his every expression and sound.
Calum and I have spent the last few nights at home trying to establish some sort of feeding/sleeping schedule. Don is off this week helping at home but as I'm the one with the milk, I get to do the feeding shifts. The first night, as can be expected, was very tiring and I think neither baby nor I got more than 3-4 hours of sleep. One thing I've learned is that feeding baby is an art form that is constantly evolving. Sometimes it's very easy to get him to eat his fill and others I'm constantly trying to wake him up enough to make sure that he finishes eating. Our record to date is a 2 hour long struggle to make sure his little belly was full enough for him to go back to sleep. Of course, he was up an hour later for the next meal too.
We had a bit of concern regarding bilirubin or jaundice. We had to take him in for tests both yesterday and today but all is well. I hated the thought of him going back to the hospital and the tech who was drawing blood for the test was awfully inexperienced and he was crying throughout. I'm glad that is over with. We also had him circumcised at my doctor's office. Don and I were told to leave for a few minutes while they did it. My blood pressure is coming down but they didn't want it to skyrocket again so out we went. When we came back they told us that he was a real little man and did very well.
Don and I are starting to get into a flow of never ending laundry. How can a little guy make so much? It's all so cute though and I think even Don is convinced that some of those little outfits really are adorable. His uncle brought him back some really styling little shoes from his recent trip to the US. I'm sure that Don will have some new pictures soon. Speaking of which, I've got to go cuddle someone really cute now. If I don't go now I won't get to hold him again until the girls go to sleep.
Calum and I have spent the last few nights at home trying to establish some sort of feeding/sleeping schedule. Don is off this week helping at home but as I'm the one with the milk, I get to do the feeding shifts. The first night, as can be expected, was very tiring and I think neither baby nor I got more than 3-4 hours of sleep. One thing I've learned is that feeding baby is an art form that is constantly evolving. Sometimes it's very easy to get him to eat his fill and others I'm constantly trying to wake him up enough to make sure that he finishes eating. Our record to date is a 2 hour long struggle to make sure his little belly was full enough for him to go back to sleep. Of course, he was up an hour later for the next meal too.
We had a bit of concern regarding bilirubin or jaundice. We had to take him in for tests both yesterday and today but all is well. I hated the thought of him going back to the hospital and the tech who was drawing blood for the test was awfully inexperienced and he was crying throughout. I'm glad that is over with. We also had him circumcised at my doctor's office. Don and I were told to leave for a few minutes while they did it. My blood pressure is coming down but they didn't want it to skyrocket again so out we went. When we came back they told us that he was a real little man and did very well.
Don and I are starting to get into a flow of never ending laundry. How can a little guy make so much? It's all so cute though and I think even Don is convinced that some of those little outfits really are adorable. His uncle brought him back some really styling little shoes from his recent trip to the US. I'm sure that Don will have some new pictures soon. Speaking of which, I've got to go cuddle someone really cute now. If I don't go now I won't get to hold him again until the girls go to sleep.
Tuesday, March 15, 2005
Monday, March 14, 2005
We are home at last
Wow! What can I say to describe the last few days? Everyone said that having a baby is a life changing experience and I must say that while I understood this all on the theoretical level, it sure is something difficult to understand until you acutally live it.
Where can I begin to describe it all? As you probably know from either Don's blog updates or phone calls, it was not an easy birth. Our little one was not all that eager to come as early as we needed him to. The induction started Thursday night in preparation for the delivery on Friday. It was a long, long process. While it was the most painful experience of my life, all I remember about it all now is how tired Don and I were just before they told me to start pushing and how much of a difference it made for me having him there by my side. I'm sure that I don't have to tell anyone just how wonderful he is. I was sorry that I couldn't have more of my family in the room with us - they were just too concerned about my blood pressure to allow it but it was also very reassuring knowing they were all waiting to greet our little one. Even my 5 year old niece, Nicola, was there till the end [but she fell asleep just 1/2 hour before Calum arrived].
The moment Calum arrived and the days that have followed have been amazing. I dream about him at night, hold him close during the day and am delighted [though more than a little sleep deprived already] by his every movement and sound. I got my wish, we have a little snuggle bunny! Desiree and Dakota have been great big sisters. You should see them with him, it's so amazing. This kid is not ever going to want for attention. Well I have so much more to share and tell you all, I think I'll let Don's pictures speak for themselves. We are all home, happy and loved. Calum is upstairs with Dad and his sisters but I still don't like to be too far away from him so I'm going to head back up.
Before I go though, I wanted to thank everyone who gave us their support before, during and after the whole process. Don and I agree that we have some pretty amazing friends and family and even though we have been so wrapped up in how our little world has changed we want everyone to know we do appreciate you all. Now I'm off to cuddle with our little guy if I can get him away from his dad.
Where can I begin to describe it all? As you probably know from either Don's blog updates or phone calls, it was not an easy birth. Our little one was not all that eager to come as early as we needed him to. The induction started Thursday night in preparation for the delivery on Friday. It was a long, long process. While it was the most painful experience of my life, all I remember about it all now is how tired Don and I were just before they told me to start pushing and how much of a difference it made for me having him there by my side. I'm sure that I don't have to tell anyone just how wonderful he is. I was sorry that I couldn't have more of my family in the room with us - they were just too concerned about my blood pressure to allow it but it was also very reassuring knowing they were all waiting to greet our little one. Even my 5 year old niece, Nicola, was there till the end [but she fell asleep just 1/2 hour before Calum arrived].
The moment Calum arrived and the days that have followed have been amazing. I dream about him at night, hold him close during the day and am delighted [though more than a little sleep deprived already] by his every movement and sound. I got my wish, we have a little snuggle bunny! Desiree and Dakota have been great big sisters. You should see them with him, it's so amazing. This kid is not ever going to want for attention. Well I have so much more to share and tell you all, I think I'll let Don's pictures speak for themselves. We are all home, happy and loved. Calum is upstairs with Dad and his sisters but I still don't like to be too far away from him so I'm going to head back up.
Before I go though, I wanted to thank everyone who gave us their support before, during and after the whole process. Don and I agree that we have some pretty amazing friends and family and even though we have been so wrapped up in how our little world has changed we want everyone to know we do appreciate you all. Now I'm off to cuddle with our little guy if I can get him away from his dad.
Sunday, March 13, 2005
Saturday, March 12, 2005
Thursday, March 10, 2005
Baby Calum on Schedule
Angie checked into Burnaby General at 7:30 am this morning. As you can read in Angie's post below, they have started the inducing/induction of Baby Calum. In other words, we sat around all day! I did my best to entertain Angie with my witty jokes (and retorts) and my detailed stories of lore (note: she likes my stories). We had visitors during the day (thanks for the flowers UBCIC), talked on our cells (the hospital allows the use of cell phones - call us!) and in general just tried to relax.
Angie's family arrived late this afternoon to be here for the Calum's big day tomorrow.
Angie's blood pressure is still a concern and tonight she had to take some medication for it. Angie asked about side-effects and the nurse brought a huge reference book so Angie could read what this particular drug would do and its side-effects. The nurses and doctors at Burnaby General are great.
It's 9:00 pm, Angie kicked me out and told me to get some sleep.
A sincere thank you to all of you for calling, texting, emailing and for your thoughts of support.
Angie's family arrived late this afternoon to be here for the Calum's big day tomorrow.
Angie's blood pressure is still a concern and tonight she had to take some medication for it. Angie asked about side-effects and the nurse brought a huge reference book so Angie could read what this particular drug would do and its side-effects. The nurses and doctors at Burnaby General are great.
It's 9:00 pm, Angie kicked me out and told me to get some sleep.
A sincere thank you to all of you for calling, texting, emailing and for your thoughts of support.
Wednesday, March 09, 2005
SPECIAL ADVISORY - NEW ETA FOR BABY CALUM
Okay,
Let's hope that this is the last time we have to change the ETA for our little one. Don and I have just returned from the latest round of tests. We had another stress test and blood test and had my blood pressure checked once again. Guess what? The darn thing is still too high. I was afraid that they would keep me at the hospital again but after the nurse talked to my doctor we decided to bump up another of my appointments and I was to see her at her office first thing in the morning. On our way home, we were told to page my doctor and she said she now wants me to check into the hospital tomorrow morning so we can begin preparing for the induction.
I don't know what the whole process involves but I do know it involves the insertion of a catheter into my cervix to start the dilation. I'm thinking that there are going to be some drugs involved somewhere along the way too and an IV drip. This will all lead up to a scheduled birth for Friday! That's right, Friday, March 11 will be the day our new bundle arrives. Is it okay to get a little scared now? I'm trying to keep my excitement down but you know this little guy isn't making it easy. Yesh, we haven't even set up the crib yet.
So, we now go into blog silence mode until we have more news to report. I'll be in Burnaby General Hospital as of tomorrow morning. Let the real adventure begin.
Let's hope that this is the last time we have to change the ETA for our little one. Don and I have just returned from the latest round of tests. We had another stress test and blood test and had my blood pressure checked once again. Guess what? The darn thing is still too high. I was afraid that they would keep me at the hospital again but after the nurse talked to my doctor we decided to bump up another of my appointments and I was to see her at her office first thing in the morning. On our way home, we were told to page my doctor and she said she now wants me to check into the hospital tomorrow morning so we can begin preparing for the induction.
I don't know what the whole process involves but I do know it involves the insertion of a catheter into my cervix to start the dilation. I'm thinking that there are going to be some drugs involved somewhere along the way too and an IV drip. This will all lead up to a scheduled birth for Friday! That's right, Friday, March 11 will be the day our new bundle arrives. Is it okay to get a little scared now? I'm trying to keep my excitement down but you know this little guy isn't making it easy. Yesh, we haven't even set up the crib yet.
So, we now go into blog silence mode until we have more news to report. I'll be in Burnaby General Hospital as of tomorrow morning. Let the real adventure begin.
Monday, March 07, 2005
New moms and their babies
Okay, I'm trying my best to rest but it's not easy. I just wanted to share a little more news and more of the experience with everyone. One thing that I forgot to mention about my brief hospital stay was that I was put into the maternity ward with all of the new moms and babies. I had a private room but with 8 babies in my wing it was hard not to know they were around. It was an interesting experience and I learned a lot. Mostly, I got used to hearing all 8 of the babies crying at different times of the day and night. Some of them were pretty vocal while others had very distinct cries - the "I am hungry" and "Change me" type. It was the new moms that were the most amusing. You know those call bells people have to summon the nurses? Well, you could definitely tell the new moms from those more experienced. I had a new mom in the room next to me and I lost track of the number of times she used her call bell. At night the sound really carried so I got to hear all sorts of things like "Why is my baby still crying?", "Is she eating enough?" and "Is this normal?" I wonder if I will be like that when Calum comes?
On the news front, I've got appointments most of the week. We have another stress test at the hospital, an ultrasound, a blood test and another visit with my doctor. Don's working from home as much as possible this week so we don't have a repeat of last Friday. If the baby doesn't come earlier, my doctor has scheduled us for an induction next Monday for sure. Baby will soon be on the way! I'm going back to rest now - next week our lives will be turned upside down.
On the news front, I've got appointments most of the week. We have another stress test at the hospital, an ultrasound, a blood test and another visit with my doctor. Don's working from home as much as possible this week so we don't have a repeat of last Friday. If the baby doesn't come earlier, my doctor has scheduled us for an induction next Monday for sure. Baby will soon be on the way! I'm going back to rest now - next week our lives will be turned upside down.
Sunday, March 06, 2005
A trial run
What can I say? As you can see from Don's post we had a real adventure since Friday afternoon. It all started innocently enough. I went to my regular weekly check up and it quickly went downhill from there. As Don so nicely explained, my high blood pressure and protein spill were not good signs so I was immediately sent to the hospital for a stress test and consultation with a specialist.
It was just our luck that it happened to be the one day that Don was out of town at a meeting. To make a long story short, my husband is amazing and managed to leave the meeting, arrange a plane ride back to Vancouver, have my future sister-in-law pick him up and take him to the hospital and to contact our family to make sure someone was at my side just in case we had to do an emergency delivery. My wonderful brother-in-law, Rob, was at the hospital before I even finished my tests and was ready [though nervous] to be there for me in the delivery room.
At that point I was feeling a bit more relaxed and was more concerned that Desiree and Dakota have someone to pick them up so Rob went off to take care of them and to rescue our poor cat that I had left outside just before leaving to see my doctor. He also managed to pick up our truck that was out at the ferry terminal. Don and Jen arrived shortly afterwards and we quickly learned that I was being admitted to the hospital for more tests and monitoring.
The rest of the weekend passed with us not knowing if we would have to have the baby within the hour or within days. It seems that the doctors wanted us to hold out for as long as possible as long as my health didn't decline. My blood pressure remained high all day Saturday but went down during the night and was looking good, well, better, today. I am now home resting in bed. My doctor will continue to monitor my condition and as long as things don't take a drastic turn we will try to hold out for another week. I do get my wish though, baby will indeed be coming early!
Though it was a bit of a frightening weekend, we did get a good trial run in. We all know our way around the hospital now. We know a lot of the staff, have seen the birthing suite and found out that you can now use cell phones at the hospital so we will be able to keep in touch with everyone on the day of the real adventure. Our son already has earned himself a nickname with one of the nurses. She called him a little stinker because he wouldn't remain still enough for us to set up the stress monitoring test. Another called him a little angel because he seemed to behave for her. I think that we are going to get a very healthy mix of both. Oh, we also got another ultrasound done and Dakota and Don got to have a good look at our baby. You will be happy to know he no longer looks like a blob. I also had plenty of time to finish that 800 page book!
For all of our family and friends who offered us support over the weekend we thank you. Sorry for the scare but this kid doesn't seem to want to do anything the easy way. Expect more news within a week or so. While my doctor wants to induce a week from Monday I'm starting to think the baby may make that decision for us before then. Be assured that baby and I are getting the best possible care and much TLC from Don and the girls. It won't be long now! Also, FYI, I was able to be admitted under Angie Bain, instead of Shuter so if you are trying to track us down at the hospital at some point give them my married name.
I'm off for more bed rest before Don comes down and carries me back upstairs. I promised my doctor not to do much this week so if you don't hear from us for awhile it's just because we are being good and obeying orders.
It was just our luck that it happened to be the one day that Don was out of town at a meeting. To make a long story short, my husband is amazing and managed to leave the meeting, arrange a plane ride back to Vancouver, have my future sister-in-law pick him up and take him to the hospital and to contact our family to make sure someone was at my side just in case we had to do an emergency delivery. My wonderful brother-in-law, Rob, was at the hospital before I even finished my tests and was ready [though nervous] to be there for me in the delivery room.
At that point I was feeling a bit more relaxed and was more concerned that Desiree and Dakota have someone to pick them up so Rob went off to take care of them and to rescue our poor cat that I had left outside just before leaving to see my doctor. He also managed to pick up our truck that was out at the ferry terminal. Don and Jen arrived shortly afterwards and we quickly learned that I was being admitted to the hospital for more tests and monitoring.
The rest of the weekend passed with us not knowing if we would have to have the baby within the hour or within days. It seems that the doctors wanted us to hold out for as long as possible as long as my health didn't decline. My blood pressure remained high all day Saturday but went down during the night and was looking good, well, better, today. I am now home resting in bed. My doctor will continue to monitor my condition and as long as things don't take a drastic turn we will try to hold out for another week. I do get my wish though, baby will indeed be coming early!
Though it was a bit of a frightening weekend, we did get a good trial run in. We all know our way around the hospital now. We know a lot of the staff, have seen the birthing suite and found out that you can now use cell phones at the hospital so we will be able to keep in touch with everyone on the day of the real adventure. Our son already has earned himself a nickname with one of the nurses. She called him a little stinker because he wouldn't remain still enough for us to set up the stress monitoring test. Another called him a little angel because he seemed to behave for her. I think that we are going to get a very healthy mix of both. Oh, we also got another ultrasound done and Dakota and Don got to have a good look at our baby. You will be happy to know he no longer looks like a blob. I also had plenty of time to finish that 800 page book!
For all of our family and friends who offered us support over the weekend we thank you. Sorry for the scare but this kid doesn't seem to want to do anything the easy way. Expect more news within a week or so. While my doctor wants to induce a week from Monday I'm starting to think the baby may make that decision for us before then. Be assured that baby and I are getting the best possible care and much TLC from Don and the girls. It won't be long now! Also, FYI, I was able to be admitted under Angie Bain, instead of Shuter so if you are trying to track us down at the hospital at some point give them my married name.
I'm off for more bed rest before Don comes down and carries me back upstairs. I promised my doctor not to do much this week so if you don't hear from us for awhile it's just because we are being good and obeying orders.
Whew!
Angie just called, she is coming home with the strict order of bed rest. Doctor Ross will keep an eye on her as she has scheduled regular appointments and tests.
I am sure Angie will be online soon enough to tell you all about it.
I am sure Angie will be online soon enough to tell you all about it.
Saturday, March 05, 2005
Friday, March 04, 2005
You are hereby on notice!
Hello all
I let the following text message that I received today from Angie tell the story:
Have 2 go 2 hospital for stress test. Baby expected early - Monday or maybe 1 week. Looks like will induce.
Now on top of that, Angie did not answer her cell for almost an hour after she sent this message! Here I was sitting in a meeting in Victoria going absolutely crazy!
At this point, I will tell you that Angie and Baby are both doing well but Angie is in Burnaby General Hospital for the weekend for observation. It is now apparent that the little one will be born within hours or days!
The concern is that Angie's blood pressure has been high and her tests from this week showed protein in her urine. Both are symptoms of preeclampsia, a disorder that occurs only during pregnancy and is affecting Angie and baby. The concern is that preeclampsia can prevent the placenta from getting enough blood possibly causing low birth weight and other problems for the baby. In severe cases preeclampsia can result in a condition called eclampsia (seizures).
Ok...I cheated above with cutting and pasting from websites about preeclampsia. The doctors agreed that Angie should be monitored for the next 24-36 hours. It could be that the decision to induce can be hours away or we can wait for a few more days.
The baby is 36 weeks 5 days as of today, a few more days in the womb would allow his lungs to develop a little more.
Here we are, on the edge of our seats and Angie turns to me and says "You have to update the blog!" I definitely love my nerdy wife!
I let the following text message that I received today from Angie tell the story:
Have 2 go 2 hospital for stress test. Baby expected early - Monday or maybe 1 week. Looks like will induce.
Now on top of that, Angie did not answer her cell for almost an hour after she sent this message! Here I was sitting in a meeting in Victoria going absolutely crazy!
At this point, I will tell you that Angie and Baby are both doing well but Angie is in Burnaby General Hospital for the weekend for observation. It is now apparent that the little one will be born within hours or days!
The concern is that Angie's blood pressure has been high and her tests from this week showed protein in her urine. Both are symptoms of preeclampsia, a disorder that occurs only during pregnancy and is affecting Angie and baby. The concern is that preeclampsia can prevent the placenta from getting enough blood possibly causing low birth weight and other problems for the baby. In severe cases preeclampsia can result in a condition called eclampsia (seizures).
Ok...I cheated above with cutting and pasting from websites about preeclampsia. The doctors agreed that Angie should be monitored for the next 24-36 hours. It could be that the decision to induce can be hours away or we can wait for a few more days.
The baby is 36 weeks 5 days as of today, a few more days in the womb would allow his lungs to develop a little more.
Here we are, on the edge of our seats and Angie turns to me and says "You have to update the blog!" I definitely love my nerdy wife!
Is it too early for one of these?
I found a neat web site while doing some online shopping [http://www.coolpedalcars.com/]. It has some really nice looking reproduction peddle cars and planes for toddlers. They look a lot more sturdy than the typical plastic ones you see these days. I was tempted to order one but I do think it will be awhile before the baby is big enough for one.
There's not much to report this week. I'm still fighting morning sickness in the afternoons and have picked up a sore throat. The baby seems fairly active still. He's really been making it clear when he is not comfortable in there and has been making me toss and turn at night. Don had fun last night trying to decide what part of his little body was sticking out of my tummy. I think the kid mooned us a few times and I've almost been tempted to hold one of his little shoes up to the foot that keeps sticking out to see if we will have a good fit.
Don's off to Victoria for the day and has had a busy, busy week full of meetings. It's pretty funny though because he still makes time to call and check up on me a few times a day. Sometimes I get some odd text messages too. That guy sure loves his phone.
I've got a doctor's appointment this morning. Only 2-3 more left after this one! Although it has seemed like a long journey we are almost at the end. I've been trying to imagine what our days will be like when the baby arrives. I think we all may be fighting for our turn at cuddle time, at least until the diaper get dirty. I know it's probably a new mom thing but I think that it's going to be hard to get the baby out of my arms for the first little while. We've been through a lot together already and all I want to do is meet this little person and see just how much he will be like his dad. Do you think that it is too much to ask for curly hair and long eyelashes?
Happy Friday everyone.
There's not much to report this week. I'm still fighting morning sickness in the afternoons and have picked up a sore throat. The baby seems fairly active still. He's really been making it clear when he is not comfortable in there and has been making me toss and turn at night. Don had fun last night trying to decide what part of his little body was sticking out of my tummy. I think the kid mooned us a few times and I've almost been tempted to hold one of his little shoes up to the foot that keeps sticking out to see if we will have a good fit.
Don's off to Victoria for the day and has had a busy, busy week full of meetings. It's pretty funny though because he still makes time to call and check up on me a few times a day. Sometimes I get some odd text messages too. That guy sure loves his phone.
I've got a doctor's appointment this morning. Only 2-3 more left after this one! Although it has seemed like a long journey we are almost at the end. I've been trying to imagine what our days will be like when the baby arrives. I think we all may be fighting for our turn at cuddle time, at least until the diaper get dirty. I know it's probably a new mom thing but I think that it's going to be hard to get the baby out of my arms for the first little while. We've been through a lot together already and all I want to do is meet this little person and see just how much he will be like his dad. Do you think that it is too much to ask for curly hair and long eyelashes?
Happy Friday everyone.
Tuesday, March 01, 2005
Expecting a call?
I get an interesting reaction these days whenever I make a phone call. The first question I get asked is "Are you alright?" It usually takes me a moment to respond. I'll admit, with the morning sickness, sore throat, flu [or whatever this latest is] I'm not always sure what people are really asking. Then it hits me. Everyone is expecting THE CALL. Believe me, I'd also prefer that be the reason I'm calling. And I thought I was the only one who is impatient. I'll have to come up with a code word or phrase to use when we really are calling because of the baby. Maybe something like "My husband will suffer".
Don has told me that I must preformat a text message just in case I can't get through to him on his cell while he is in a meeting. I suggested something like "Baby is coming" followed a minute or two later by "Just kidding" but he didn't seem too keen on that idea. Now, I may have no experience with this whole giving birth thing but everyone I've talked to has given me the impression that it all takes a bit longer than 20 minutes. With my luck, it will likely be on the other end of the spectrum and people will be saying "Would you just have the baby already!"
Dakota was a little disappointed when she asked if we would take them out of class once I went into the hospital. I told her that it is likely to take a long, long time and that I doubted we would have to do that. Then she asked if her and Desiree would be waiting at the hospital and I said that I was sure they wouldn't want to be there the whole time but hopefully they could be there towards the end. I've a feeling the whole experience is just going to seem much too long for her. She'll probably remember it in terms of the shows she missed while waiting for the baby as that is how she seems to measure time.
In other news, I've been having fun selecting a few more toys and even more fun opening the packages that are arriving via UPS, Priority Post and through regular mail. That little toy box that I built is getting close to full already. Dakota has been carefully inspecting all of the toys and has informed me that she may even sneak a few out to play with now and then. I told her that is what brothers and sisters do and that she better be ready for the baby to want to get into her stuff too [Desiree and Dakota have pretty different personalities so tend to stay away from each others things]. We both laughed when we tried to picture a baby wearing her street hockey gear but I suspect it will happen one day. While I like hockey, Don and the girls are true fans so I suspect the baby [and I] won't have much choice. I will draw the line at anyone painting his face with a Canucks logo or putting a blue wig on his little head. Now a cute little hat, well that's a different story.
Don has told me that I must preformat a text message just in case I can't get through to him on his cell while he is in a meeting. I suggested something like "Baby is coming" followed a minute or two later by "Just kidding" but he didn't seem too keen on that idea. Now, I may have no experience with this whole giving birth thing but everyone I've talked to has given me the impression that it all takes a bit longer than 20 minutes. With my luck, it will likely be on the other end of the spectrum and people will be saying "Would you just have the baby already!"
Dakota was a little disappointed when she asked if we would take them out of class once I went into the hospital. I told her that it is likely to take a long, long time and that I doubted we would have to do that. Then she asked if her and Desiree would be waiting at the hospital and I said that I was sure they wouldn't want to be there the whole time but hopefully they could be there towards the end. I've a feeling the whole experience is just going to seem much too long for her. She'll probably remember it in terms of the shows she missed while waiting for the baby as that is how she seems to measure time.
In other news, I've been having fun selecting a few more toys and even more fun opening the packages that are arriving via UPS, Priority Post and through regular mail. That little toy box that I built is getting close to full already. Dakota has been carefully inspecting all of the toys and has informed me that she may even sneak a few out to play with now and then. I told her that is what brothers and sisters do and that she better be ready for the baby to want to get into her stuff too [Desiree and Dakota have pretty different personalities so tend to stay away from each others things]. We both laughed when we tried to picture a baby wearing her street hockey gear but I suspect it will happen one day. While I like hockey, Don and the girls are true fans so I suspect the baby [and I] won't have much choice. I will draw the line at anyone painting his face with a Canucks logo or putting a blue wig on his little head. Now a cute little hat, well that's a different story.
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