6 Weeks Postpartum

My postpartum posts were slacking a bit (entirely), but I thought my last postpartum visit deserved a blog post.  I canNOT believe I gave birth to Lucy six weeks ago!!!  That means in two short weeks I'll not only have a two month old, but I'll also be returning to work.  UGH!

Quitting my day job and becoming a stay at home mom has never seemed so appealing; unfortunately, that is not in the budget right now.  I can't imagine the day I have to leave Lucy for ten straight hours...there will be a lot of tears, no doubt.  These feelings led to a rather important decision:  I'm not returning to school this fall.  I am more than content going through life with just an Associates Degree - especially since I didn't want to go to college in the first place. 

Anyways... (way to stray, Tay) ...back to this postpartum business.  I had my final visit this morning.  This visit consisted of a Pap test and a little Q&A.  I was expecting a breast exam (because I had read that those were pretty typical of 6 week visits - to check supply and milk glands and whatnot), but the girls were spared.  Doctor O said that everything was back to normal down there.  She asked about any PPD symptoms and our intended contraceptive method (nope and nope).  It was really nice to see the doc after all this time; she got to see Lucy, and she was very complimentary.  She said she was looking forward to seeing us for baby #2 and that she hoped I would get my vaginal delivery.  Ohhhh yeah, Doctor O is a big supporter of VBAC (vaginal birth after cesarean).  Woooo!

Recovery has been great.  After probably three, maybe four, weeks I was pretty much pain free; sneezing has been the only really pain.  I weighed in this morning, and I am now down 29 pounds (still plenty to lose though!).  The weight loss has REALLY slowed down, and it sucks.  I'm officially dieting - nothing drastic - but, I'm actually trying to lose weight now.  And now, I give you my last belly pic:

Look who squeezed their butt into jeans!  Jeans people, JEANS!

Awhile back I tried to make a side-by-side comparison of the belly from week 7 to week 38, but that project was an massive fail.  So, instead, a short video.  Without further adieu, I give you:

The Bellies

 Its hard to believe I was that huge 6 weeks ago...

Two Weeks Postpartum

Well two weeks and some days ago, we had a baby!  Our lives have no doubt been changed, for the better and forever.  I'm sorry to have missed my one week postpartum post, but hopefully I can stay on top of it from here on out - at least through my six week visit.  I fully intend to keep this blog alive and thriving for as long as possible, after all, Lucy has a lot of growing to do. 

I had my two week postpartum visit this past Friday, and I met with the nurse practitioner, as my doctor was out of town.  I was actually a little sad to not see my doctor...  Despite my incessant complaining about the woman, she proved to be an amazing doctor, and we're even talking about staying with her practice for future Shelton babies!  The nurse checked my incision, she said everything looked great, and she cleared me to drive. 


Recovery has been smooth sailing for the most part.  I'm down 24 pounds as of this morning, and I've still got 10 pounds to go.  Unfortunately, I think the remaining 10 pounds are all in my ass.  I still cannot button my regular pants, so for now, I live in yoga pants.  Here's hoping my kangaroo pouch disappears fairly soon! 

 Heading to the hospital...

Two weeks later...

Most people complain about loose skin after they give birth, but that hasn't really been a problem for me.  I guess that's one plus side to getting pregnant when you're 19...  Don't hate me too much though, because what I lack in loose skin, I more than make up for in stretch marks.  I can't even count all the stretch marks on my belly!  I smother my midsection in Vitamin E oil twice daily, and they seem to have faded somewhat, but they are still verrry noticeable and verrry ugly. 

My incision is still a little sore; it mostly bothers me when I go from sitting to standing position.  Finally, though, I can laugh without any pain!!!  You have no idea how hard it is to live with someone as funny as Casey, when you're not supposed to laugh!  There were many occasions when he or someone else unintentionally made me laugh and left me writhing in pain.  I stopped taking my pain medication much sooner than I was supposed to, because it was affecting Lucy.  Those first few days sans medication hurt, but it was worth it.  The pain meds were making Lucy extremely sleepy, so sleepy that she couldn't stay awake through feedings; which, ultimately affected her weight, and scared the living hell out of her daddy and I. Within hours of stopping the medication, Lucy was so much more alert and feeding much better. 


Breastfeeding has been really great (since my milk came in - the Colostrum only days SUCKED)!  There was some pain and cracking in the beginning, but things really improved around the two week mark!  Lucy is a great breastfeeder; she has a great latch, and she eats like a champ!  At first, our routine involved waking Lucy every two hours (during the day) to feed, and letting her wake up on her own at night.  Now, due to Lucy's awesome weight gain, we're free to let her wake up on her own throughout the day.  I prayed almost nightly, while I was pregnant, to be able to breastfeed, and I am so grateful to be able to; I love the bonding, I love the health benefits for Lucy, and of course, I love the calorie burner!

I think our little family of three has adjusted quite well over the past two weeks.  We've developed a couple of routines that work for us, including cloth diapering (more on that in a separate post), and we couldn't be happier.  We are sooo excited for Lucy's first Easter, her first trip to Connecticut, and every other "first" coming our way.

In Lucy news, she officially has a normal belly button!  It still hasn't sucked in to form an "innie" belly button, but it is still totally adorable and such a relief to have that gross cord gone!  At her two week check up she had surpassed her birth weight, weighing in at 7 pounds, 9 ounces; this was quite impressive, as she was a mere 6 pounds, 8 ounces the week before.  The pediatrician has scheduled an ultrasound of Lucy's hips for her 6 week birthday; due to her prolonged breech presentation in the womb, there is a chance of hip dysplasia.  Although, during every physical exam the pediatrician has said that Lucy's hips feel great, and she doesn't believe there will be any problems.

I'll end my long-winded post with some adorable pictures of Lucy Lou:

Lucy's Birth Story

Our sweet baby Lucy arrived on March 18; nine whole days ago!  I cannot believe more than an entire week of her life has flown by already; I know it sounds silly, but it really does scare me at how fast time is flying.  Already she looks completely different from when they first yanked her out of my belly, and she is so alert and smart and sweet, and just ABSOLUTELY perfect!  From the night she was born, life has felt like one long, never ending day.  Now that I've finally got a moment, and a little spare energy, I want to share Lucy's birth story...

It all started on Thursday morning...  Casey and I headed to Banner Good Sam Hospital in hopes of turning Lucy via an external cephalic version (read about that procedure in this blog post:  click here).  The procedure was unpleasant and unsuccessful; before leaving the hospital, I had an internal exam and I was a whooping 4 centimeters (hello active labor!).  My doctor said to go home anyway, take it easy, and she'd call us later in the afternoon with a new game plan.  When she finally called, she said that this was officially a high risk situation and to get our butts back to the hospital ASAP.  The reason it was "high risk" was due to Lucy's breech presentation.  Should a woman go into labor with a breech baby, there is a chance of cord prolapse (the umbilical cord coming out of the cervix before the baby).

Casey and I hung out in OB triage for a good three hours before a room in the labor and delivery ward became available.  We spent the night in L & D, and I was officially put on bed rest; I think we finally got to sleep around 12 or 1 am (ideal).  The next morning, I enjoyed my last meal before having to fast for twelve freaking hours (please note, I didn't actually get to eat again until lunch time on Saturday).  Casey and I lounged around the room all day, watched a few movies, and I got an IV (ow!).  Both of our families arrived at the hospital that evening.  Before leaving for the OR we had a group prayer, and I was truly appreciative of all the love and support from everyone. The operating room was booked solid at both Banner Good Sam and Scottsdale Health Care Shea; we ended up at Banner because we had already been there for the version.  The plan was to try the version again, this time with an epidural - to relax my uterus and every other muscle below my chest - and if the procedure was unsuccessful the second time around, we would have a cesarean section immediately after (hence the fasting...).

Because the OR was exceptionally busy, our time slot kept getting pushed back.  We moved from noon, to six, to six thirty, to seven thirty, and eventually eight.  As the minutes ticked away I became more and more petrified.  I was scared to become a parent, scared to be responsible for a little baby, scared of having a c-section (um, hello, that's major surgery!)...  I started shaking and I was nauseous beyond belief.  As Casey and I rolled down the hallways of L & D, up to the big double doors you see in all the hospital TV shows, my thoughts were like one massive, run-on prayer.  Casey was brought back to a separate area to be dressed and prepped in those adorable scrubs, and I headed to the OR (also in scrubs).  

I climbed atop the operating table, and the anesthesiologist began inserting the epidural.  It really wasn't that uncomfortable, just a big pinch followed by a burning sensation.  The numbing was almost instantaneous; within a few minutes I couldn't feel my legs.  They tested the epidural's effectiveness by spraying ice water on  my wrist and then on my belly; I couldn't feel the cold until they reached my chest.  I was put on oxygen and the nurses added all sorts of junk to my IV.  My doctor and Casey finally came into the OR, and they began the version.  They tried three times, checking by ultrasound intermittently, and eventually decided that our baby was not meant to be turned.  It was so nice to not feel all the pressure and pain of the version again; but like a baby, as soon as they decided to do the c-section, I started to tear up.  Casey was sweet enough to wipe my tears away and hold my hand the entire time.  I wasn't crying because the version failed, I was crying because we were about to meet our daughter.  My doctor kept apologizing, but I couldn't talk (that always makes me cry even harder); I felt like such a jackass.  

And so they began prepping for the cesarean.  They hung a curtain below my neck, so neither Casey or I could see; they scrubbed my belly; and, finally, they sliced me open.  I felt no pain whatsoever; all I could feel was a slight pressure and pulling on my belly.  I didn't even realize they had started; I was drifting in and out of sleep (because of all the drugs) and I was trying desperately to stay awake.  I just stared at Casey, and kept telling him how thirsty I was (haha!).  The anesthesiologist told Casey to get his camera ready and to stand up; Casey poked me in the forehead to wake me up, and then he literally watched them pull her out of my belly.

Lucy cried immediately, and so Casey and I began crying immediately.  Casey said that Lucy was bent in half, and our doctor yelled, "She's a gymnast!"  Dr. O cut her cord, and Casey was brought back to the warmer to meet Lucy for the first time.  He brought her back to me and put her face by mine so I could kiss her cheeks and see her.  He just kept saying, "She's perfect!"

Casey and Lucy were brought back to recovery, while I was sewn up.  The doctor's told me to try to take a nap, and let me tell you, I did not have to try very hard.  Twenty minutes later I was being rolled to recovery and I joined my little family.  Lucy's measurements were double checked, Casey was on text messaging and picture taking duty, and I was put on a million different monitors.  Casey took over 200 pictures in the first hour of her life; he did such a great job capturing the moment.  The nurse helped me feed Lucy for the first time, and surprisingly, breastfeeding didn't hurt like I expected it to.  Our family came back one person at a time.  Most of the time spent in recovery is a blur for me.  I remember staring at Lucy and Casey in utter disbelief.  I remember being insanely thirsty; fortunately, Casey fed me ice chips and I was eventually allowed to sip water.  And I remember having a death grip on Lucy, because I was so afraid of dropping her.

We eventually made our way to the postpartum floor.  It was a little sad to leave the amazing team of doctor's and nurses; they took such great care of us and they were all so genuinely kind and supportive.  The nurses that welcomed us in postpartum proved to be just as amazing.  They showed Casey how to change Lucy's diaper, how to swaddle her, and bathe her; they had me up and walking by 4 am, and they took great care of us overall.  I was not expecting the experience with this hospital to be nearly as wonderful.   

After I hung up with my doctor Thursday evening, I started sobbing.  I really thought the version would work, and that I'd go in to labor when nature intended; I didn't really think we'd be having a baby in just a few short hours.  I wasn't crying because my natural childbirth was becoming less and less likely; I was crying because becoming a parent is terrifying and utterly surreal.  In the end, the cesarean really wasn't bad at all.  I'm sure having a natural, vaginal birth is very empowering and rewarding, and I hope to experience it one day, but I am very happy with the efforts my doctor put into our care.

I fell in love with Lucy the moment I saw her.  Every ounce of fear dissolved; feeding her, changing her, loving her is all so natural. We love you, Lucy.

Lucille Ann Shelton

Born March 18, 2011

7 pounds, 1 ounce; 19 inches long

Turn Baby, Turn!

My baby is breech.  She has been breech since our great big anatomy scan ultrasound (possibly even before this).  This is what breech presentation looks like:

 

Our little angel likes to hang in the Complete Breech position.  Meaning, not only can you NOT determine her gender, but you also can't have a vaginal birth (without some serious intervention and risks).

I didn't realize the severity of the situation until I was thirty-some weeks pregnant (just a little late in the game).  Had I known that this would mean the demise of my vaginal birth, I would've started trying to turn this child MUCH sooner.  I guess maybe its common knowledge that babies don't come out buttocks/feet first, but when I was first told that she was breech, that didn't really register for me.

For the past (almost) two months, I've tried various techniques to turn Lucy:  chiropractor visits, hours on the birth ball, loads of Cat movements, feet up/feet down while sitting, night after night on the inversion table (pictured below), and now, for the grand finale, I will have an External Cephalic Version.

 

A friend of mine told me about a chiropractic procedure, The Webster, that supposedly has a 100 percent success ratio in turning breech babies.  The chiropractor applies pressure to two pressure points on the front and back of whichever hip is causing the breech position; it usually requires three treatments...  I had FIVE.  

My wonderful in-laws let us borrow their inversion table for these last few weeks of the pregnancy.  So every day after work, I hang like a bat for as long as I can take, and repeat once before bedtime.  This method is supposed to encourage the baby to tuck her chin and make turning easier. 

Lastly, I'll be having an External Cephalic Version on Thursday.  Rather than trying to explain what it is, I'm posting a short video of what the procedure entails:  click here.  Gulp...

Seriously, the video is two mintues long...WATCH IT.

Thoughts and prayers that this works would be much appreciated!!!

I was stood up...

...by my doctor.

I've never had to wait for a guy to call me back, but I imagine this is what it feels like.  And it sucks.  Why would this woman say she'd call me on Monday (today), and then NOT call me?!

What.A.Jerk.

Someone, ANYONE, turn my baby!!!

Freezer Meals

This is what a stocked freezer looks like:

Are you impressed?  I am.  I wish I could take credit for this brilliant idea, but I actually read about freezer meals in one of the many foodie blogs that I follow:  What's Cookin, Chicago?

I knew that I wanted to cook and freeze meals before Lucy's arrival from very early on in my pregnancy.  It just seemed like a great, easy way to be prepared for the newborn phase of life.  I fully expect to be a sleep-deprived zombie those first four weeks or so, and I know cooking will be the last thing on my mind, but I still want to be able to eat delicious food! 

A few weeks ago I compiled a list of our favorite freezer-friendly foods, and began composing the longest grocery list conceivable of all the supplies I'd need.  Unfortunately, the grocery shopping trip that followed completely zapped my energy for the day, and the cooking frenzy didn't begin until the next day.  The recipes I chose were a combination of family recipes and recipes that I've collected from food blogs (which is why only some of the recipes below have links).  

Entrees

Salsa Chicken*

Shredded Pork (for Tacos)*

Ground Turkey (for Tacos)

Emeril's Mac & Cheese

Bean & Cheese Enchiladas*

Veggie Lasanga*

Fallon's Italian Chicken Soup 

Mama Bear's Sauce

Twice Baked Potatoes

Breakfast

Meg's Zucchini Bread

Mama Bear's Banana Bread

French Toast*

Breakfast Burritos

Sweets

Chocolate Chip Cookies

Stacy's Pumpkin Cookies

*Indicates an adaptation has been made

I'd like you all to know there was a brief moment where I contemplated buying a second freezer...  Here's a pic of my breakfast burrito assembly line:

This was a really fun process (in my opinion, anyways; I just love to cook and bake!), and its inspired me to try out Once-A-Month-Cooking (OAMC) and Dump Recipes after the this batch of freezer meals is demolished. 

38 weeks

Baby is now the size of a:  newborn!  We can expect to see her at this current length and weight on D-Day; approximately 7 pounds (ya right, this baby is going to be an 8 pounder MINIMUM) and 21 1/2 inches long.  She is fully developed at this very moment; her organs are mature and ready for life outside my belly!  Here's a fun fact, if she is born with brown eyes, the color will not change (those would be from me, thank you very much).  If she is born with gray or blue eyes, the color can change to various shades of blue, green, or brown.  


How I'm feeling:  same old, same old...big, tired, swollen, and enjoying constant lower back pain.  I waddle A LOT; walking and just being upright in general is pretty uncomfortable.  Yet another reason why I am truly grateful to have a desk job.  My wonderful supervisor got approval for me to wear flip flops for the remainder of my pregnancy; I didn't even ask for this privilege, but it is totally appreciated.  And now that my stomach is thoroughly crammed under my left rib, I don't have the room to eat normal portions... As a result, I'm constantly eating; a few bites here and there, because I'm still hungry - I just don't have room for food anymore. 

Physical differences from last week:  I didn't weigh in this week, and I never let the nurse say my weight out loud...  I'm hoping to still be right around 32-33 pounds.  Cervix progress:  not quite 3 cm dilated and 50 percent effaced.  This would be AWESOME news, if Lucy were head down...  Here's my weekly pic:

What's been on my mind:  I think we are ready for babe-a-roni's arrival!  Thank you notes have been mailed; freezer meals are cooked (yes, I have a post coming ALL about this); the seemingly impossible to-do list is DONE!!!  These days I'm just trying to relax as much as possible and enjoy my amazing hubby while he's still all mine. 

What I'm looking forward to:  my doctor calling me sometime tomorrow with potential dates for the version procedure.  I'm scared, but excited for this procedure.  I'm scared because of the rare, but potential, risks; I'm excited because this may be the answer to my prayers for a natural, vaginal birth.  Never fear, I have an entire post dedicated to our baby turning journey - hopefully I'll get that posted later this week.

Random thoughts:  Casey's co-workers threw us the sweetest joint baby shower on Friday.  They were extremely generous and thoughtful.  I went to his office after my prenatal visit for lunch, cake, and presents!  One of his co-workers made the most adorable bumble bee cake:

And they were all very generous gift-givers!  We got tons of cute outfits, blankets, toys, and even a swing! 

It was a great afternoon!  We couldn't be more appreciative of all the love and support we've received from everyone.

A finished nursery...

We may go down in history as being the BIGGEST procrastinators in history when it comes to setting up our child's nursery...but that is just fine with us!  It was well worth the wait!!!

In order to keep things gender neutral, just in case, we chose a bumble bee theme.  The colors we went with were mostly pastels; yellow, sage green, and white.  We're really not insect people, but these bumble bees were too cute to pass up.  I love going in her room and just imagining all the time we'll spend in it.

And now some pictures, because those are more fun than my rambling:

Looking in from the guest bathroom

 Our beautiful crib and glider

Our DIY headboard

Changing table set up

The crib with all the bedding and decor

Close up of the decals - my favorite!

We are so happy with the end result!  All the picking and choosing, and PATIENCE, paid off in the end.  All we need now is a baby!!!

Showering Baby Shelton

Last Sunday, my mom and sister threw me the cutest baby shower.  They did such a beautiful job, and I couldn't be more grateful for all of their hard work.  It was so great to spend the afternoon with friends and family, and celebrate our sweet baby, Lucy.

Mama Bear and Fallon planned and planned for over a month.  They chose the most adorable gender neutral theme: baby feet!  And they prepared the most amazing Italian-inspired lunch buffet; let the record show, if Russo women do one thing right, its cook (and bake)!  My mother-in-law and sister-in-law coordinated some very sweet games; it was too funny to see the results of the "How big is the belly?" guessing game.

Pictures are limited, as we forgot to grab the camera until about halfway through the shower!  And now, for your viewing pleasure:

 The adorable invites

Mama Bear and Sissy

Unofficial group photo - whoops!

Opening presents!  Hehehe

The most DELICIOUS, and beautiful, cake 

Annnnd my lone contribution to the big event, totally adorable favors

It was an absolutely beautiful day!  We are so very lucky to have such thoughtful and generous family and friends.  Baby Lucy is thoroughly spoiled, and she hasn't even made her debut yet!  Her nursery is stocked and just about ready for her arrival, and its all thanks to our amazing family and friends.  A big thanks to everyone, we couldn't be more grateful!!!

37 weeks - Full term!

Baby is now the size of a:  watermelon!  ::insert jaw drop::  She weighs approximately 6 1/3 pounds and measures anywhere from 20-21 inches in length.  She will remain at this length for the next three weeks, but she will continue to plump up.  Currently, her body fat is about eight percent; by birth, it'll be about fifteen percent.  At this point, she can do all the things a newborn can, with the exception of breathing air and pooping in a diaper.  Baby Lucy is now considered "full term"; meaning, if I were to go into labor now, her lungs would be mature enough to fully adjust to life outside the womb. Baby girl, you are absolutely welcome to join us any day now!!!


How I'm feeling:  exhausted, big, and swollen.  It does not take much to zap my energy level these days.  I fully intended to complete all cooking and freezing this weekend, and after just a few errands, I was completely and utterly drained for the day.  Before last week, I really hadn't experienced bad swelling...then the wonderful AZ sun decided to crank up the heat.  I've officially removed my wedding rings and toe ring, and I miss them terribly!  I cannot imagine being pregnant in the Arizona summer.  I'm also stressed about Miss Lucy's breech presentation, as her turning days are numbered...   I pray every night that Lucy turns, and every morning I'm greeted by the sight of her big ol' noggin right in front of my rib.  Fun fact:  breech presentations account for 3 percent of all pregnancies.  

Physical differences from last week:  I've hit the 32 pound mark...AND I'm two centimeters dilated!!!

What's been on my mind:  the phrase, "Your baby could be born at any time."  My contractions remind me of that almost daily.  I think we are pretty well prepared for her arrival.  I did all of her laundry on Sunday, we bought all the little things we still needed, and the nursery is almost complete.  I've decided to take three-day weekends until D-Day (hopefully that will only last one or two more weeks) to rest and finish up my remaining to-dos. 

What I'm looking forward to: Lucy flipping (either of her own free will or via an External Cephalic Version)!  Casey and the doc said I have to stop trying to bring on labor until she turns...

Random thoughts:  I'm now at the point in my pregnancy where I see the doc once a week.  When I saw her on Friday, and she told me how dilated I was, I almost screamed!  Unfortunately, this excellent news is sort of canceled out by Lucy's being breech.  If I were to go into labor today, before having the version procedure, I would be forced to have a c-section.  The game plan is to check her presentation at my appointment on Friday, and if she's still breech, we schedule the version.  Baby turning prayers would be appreciated, friends!

Birth Class (Part II & III) and The Hospital Tour

I hate to cram so much into one post...but time has officially gotten away from me!  Here I am almost 37 weeks pregnant, and I'm still rushing to prepare for this child's arrival (which could be any day now, thank you very much)!!!

The second and third birth classes were much like the first; hilarious, packed with info, and overall, a lot of fun.  I was actually a little sad that the classes had to end. 

The topics we covered during the second class included: epidurals, postpartum recovery, cesarean births, what-to-pack, and the role of the support person.  After hearing the instructor's spiel on epidurals, I realized they weren't nearly as awful as I imagined, and that the research and feedback I had received prior to the class was slightly biased.  Not to say that I'm suddenly in favor of pain meds, I just appreciate the different perspective.  The what-to-pack portion was especially beneficial.  The instructor recommended a few items that never would've crossed my mind.  For example, rice bags.  What the hell is a rice bag, you say?  Its a GENIUS, homemade massage device.  You fill a sock with rice, tie it off, and your partner can use it to rub your back.  It feels absolutely heavenly; it can be used at room temp, chilled, and even warmed.  Example number two, ice packs.  At any point during labor, hold the ice pack until your hands start to hurt.  The pain in your hands will distract you from the labor pain you are feeling.  Other items that I never would've thought of include racquet balls, popsicles, electric handheld massagers, and the birthing ball (as the hospital only has two birthing balls on hand, and if they are in use at the time, you're out of luck chuck).

The third class focused mainly on breathing and massage techniques, as well as positions for laboring and delivering.  We spent the last hour of class on the floor getting massaged by our hubbys; I thoroughly enjoyed this portion of the class.  I've got a few hand outs that I need to copy down on to notecards for the hospital bag, as there is A LOT to remember!  One thing to remember: "BURP'EM".  This acronym stands for Breathe, Urinate, Rest/Relaxation, Position, Encouragement/Enviornment, and Massage.  The support person needs to coach your breathing, remind you to use the bathroom every half hour, remind you to rest between the contractions, remind you to change your laboring position every half hour, offer encouraging words and keep the room neat, and massage you like there's no tomorrow.

I absolutely loved this class, and I loved the instructor; I highly recommend anyone planning on delivering at Scottsdale Healthcare on Shea OR Osborn take this class.  Unfortunately, our wonderful teacher is retired from nursing.  I asked her (lol) in hopes of having her present for my L & D.

Just a quick blurb about the tour:  it was not nearly as exciting as I expected it to be.  The tour was something I had been looking forward to from very early in my pregnancy.  Well after our amazing birthing class, we had already heard all the pertinent information about the hospital lay out and procedures.  It was nice to do a physical walk through and to familarize ourselves with where to go when its time, and of course, it was very exciting to realize I'd be in one of those hospital beds in a few short weeks (hopefully A LOT sooner)!  The rooms are very spacious and clean; they have a refrigerator, microwave, tv, cd player, dvd player, jacuzzi tub, and private bathroom in every room.  I plan on LIVING in the shower while I'm in labor, but all that other stuff is nice too, I guess.  LOL

36 weeks

Late again!  Sorry folks!!!

Baby is now the size of a: crenshaw melon...  Anyone know what that is?  Baby Lucy weighs approximately six pounds, gaining about an ounce a day, and she measures anywhere from 18 to 20 inches long.  Her skin is nice and smooth; her liver, kidneys, circulation and immune systems are basically "good to go".  We're just waiting on those lungs to fully mature.  She's shedding (and ultimately consuming) the waxy covering that has protected her skin for the past NINE months; this will form the contents of her first #2.  Absolutely thrilling, I know. 


How I'm feeling:  gargantuan.  I slept terribly this past weekend; which is ideal because I'm already exhausted as it is...  Basically, I'm ready to have this baby.  During the week I had a pretty big, disgusting (and hugely exciting) development that indicates my body is preparing for L & D.  I won't go in to specifics, because it truly is gag-worthy.    

Physical differences from last week:  still tippin the scales at 30 large. 

What's been on my mind:  to-do lists.  We've decided on a pediatrician; my three BIG remaining to-do's are pack for the hospital, buy all the little things we still need, and prep/cook all the meals for the freezer.

What I'm looking forward to:  my prenatal appointment on Friday.  I am really, REALLY hoping to hear that Lucy is head down, or at least transverse (horizontal)!  We've spent the past two weeks, and a small chunk of change, trying to turn this baby.  I'm having my first internal exam (how very third trimester of me), and I'm PRAYING to hear there's been some dilation or effacement.  If anyone has a few spare prayers they'd like to direct towards Lucy's being head down/dilation progress, that would be HUGELY appreciated!!!

Random thoughts:  I had the most beautiful baby shower on Sunday, and I just feel so lucky and thankful to have such an amazing family and friends.  Baby Lucy is very loved (and spoiled) already!  I've got an entire post dedicated to the shower (with tons of pictures) in the works already!

What's in a name?

"What's in a name? That which we call a rose
By any other name would smell as sweet."

No we're not naming our daughter Juliet....that would just be silly.

I thought it was about time we announced Baby Shelton's real name, considering her expected arrival is a mere month or so away.  


As you all know, we never got our clear cut money shot, and that is why we never "painted the nursery".  We're leaning towards girl, but in the event that we're wrong, we've got a back up plan.


I have loved this name since I was a little girl.  Before I met Casey or fell in love with red hair, I used to say that I would name my first daughter this...  I had told Casey about the name long before we were pregnant or married even, and he just sort of shrugged along and didn't pay much attention - shocking!  Well after the first ultrasound, we started skimming baby name websites...  Very few names caught our eye; let the record show that girl names are exceptionally more challenging to chose than boy names.  I found myself comparing every name we considered to the original name that I loved.  That was when we realized that that was it:

Lucille Ann Shelton

  

 And of course, as previously mentioned, if she is actually a he...we have a back up plan.  ;-)

35/35

35 weeks down; 35 days to go.  Eek!  (I don't care that this post is a day late, I've been waiting forevaaa to use this post title)

Baby is now the size of a:  honeydew (still).  She's now over 18 inches long and weighs between 5 1/4 to 5 1/2 pounds.  Her nervous system and immune system continue to mature with every passing hour, but all other bodily systems and physical features are fully formed.  Growth has slowed drastically; it definitely feels like she's running out of room.


How I'm feeling:  TIRED and big.  I've had incessant swollen feet, leg cramps, heart burn, and LOADS of back pain - all the typical pregnant lady stuff - for the past few weeks.  I've finally reached the point where I'm ready to not be pregnant anymore.  Don't get me wrong, its been fun...but I'm ready to meet my baby and lose this weight!

Physical differences from last week:  well I've had the ever-changing bump since Wednesday afternoon, thanks to a heaven sent chiropractor (more on that in a separate post):

What's been on my mind:  packing for the hospital, calling the pediatrician, cook and freeze meals.  All the little things that we have left to do, and the one daunting task, before babe's arrival.

What I'm looking forward to:  the baby shower (next Sunday), our last birthing class (Wednesday), our hospital tour (next Saturday), annnnnnd MATERNITY LEAVE!!! 

Random thoughts:  I'm heading to the spa with my mama bear in a bit for a maternity massage!   Woooooo, thanks mama!  I cannot wait to lay on that table with the belly cut out!!!  (I'm a stomach sleeper, so the past eight some months have been mildly torturous)

The Birth Plan

Well...I've finished my birth plan, with the help of some very patient friends and this handy dandy website.  Please don't think this means I expect everything to go according to plan; I am well aware that complications may arise and/or hospital procedure may conflict with our wishes.  At the end of the day, all that matters to us is our babe's health and safety.  

 

I reviewed the BP with my doctor this past Friday, and she was surprisingly receptive.  Don't get me wrong, she made a few jabs at me and my BP; but for the most part she was in agreement and (seemed) to fully understand our wishes.  She approved and initialed the plan and stapled it to our file.  The few items that were unacceptable were due to hospital policy at Scottsdale Healthcare on Shea; I've highlighted those items throughout the plan.

The website's format includes an opening note to the doctor and staff, followed by a list of our preferences for various procedures and labor care.  Now, I realize my opening note might seem a tad contradicting...allow me to explain...  I would *like* to have a drug-free and intervention-free delivery, and that is what I'm going to try to do; BUT if at some point the pain becomes unbearable, I'm allowing myself to get an epidural (after reaching a certain dilation goal that I've set for myself).  Or if the baby is in distress, obviously, I want her to be safe and I have absolutely no problem with intervention.  AND if at any point, some form of intervention can be used in place of cesarean delivery, I want the intervention.  I want to do anything I can to avoid a c-section.  So, without further adieu, (my longest post to date and) Our Wishes for Childbirth:

I would like to try to have a drug-free and intervention-free delivery. I realize complications may arise, and I do not expect everything to go according to plan. I would like to avoid a cesarian delivery at all costs; I would like to exhaust all methods of intervention prior to committing to a c-section delivery.

Sincerely,
Taylor Shelton

Labor

• I would like to be free to walk around during labor.
• I wish to be able to move around and change position at will throughout labor.
• I would like to be able to have fluids by mouth throughout the first stage of labor. Hospital will only allow ice chips, and absolutely no food.
• I would like the lights in the room to be kept low during my labor.
• I would prefer to keep the number of vaginal exams to a minimum.
• I do not want an IV unless I become dehydrated.  If I test positive for Strep B, I will have to have an IV from the get-go.

Monitoring

• I do not wish to have continuous fetal monitoring unless it is required by the condition of My baby.
• I do not want an internal monitor unless My baby has shown some sign of distress.

Labor Augmentation/Induction

• If labor is not progressing, I would like to have the amniotic membrane ruptured before other methods are used to augment labor.
• I would prefer to be allowed to try changing position and other natural methods (walking, nipple stimulation) before Pitocin is administered.  Dr. O prefers that we not use nipple stimulation by breast pump because it can cause too many contractions.
• Other Labor Augmentation/Induction Preference: I would prefer to use natural methods prior to artificial methods.

Anesthesia/Pain Medication

• I realize that many pain medications exist. I'll ask for them if I need them.
• Other Anesthesia/Pain Medication Preference: In the event that the pain becomes unbearable for me, I would like to have an epidural; please, absolutely no narcotic pain relief.  Dr. O said that if I decide that I need pain medication early in labor, it is better to use narcotic pain relief than an epidural because an epi can slow labor progress.

Cesarean

• Unless absolutely necessary, I would like to avoid a Cesarean.
• If my primary care provider determines that a Cesarean delivery is indicated, I would like to obtain a second opinion from another physician if time allows.  There may not be time for this in the case of an emergency c-section; from the time the decision is made to the time the baby is delivered is ten minutes or less.
• If a Cesarean delivery is indicated, I would like to be fully informed and to participate in the decision-making process.
• I would like My husband, Casey present at all times if My baby requires a Cesarean delivery.  Hospital policy prevents Casey from being present while I am being prepped for surgery, but he will be brought into the operating room just before the surgery begins.
• I wish to have an epidural for anesthesia. 
• So I can view the birth, I would like the screen lowered just before delivery of My baby.
• If My baby is not in distress, My baby should be given to My husband, Casey immediately after birth.  Hospital policy states that all c-section babies are immediately put in the artificial warmer; Casey would be allowed to accompany the baby and touch her through the warmer.

Episiotomy

• I would prefer not to have an episiotomy unless absolutely required for My baby's safety.
• I am hoping to protect the perineum. I am practicing ahead of time by squatting, doing Kegel exercises and perineal massage.
• I would appreciate guidance in when to push and when to stop pushing so the perineum can stretch.
• If possible, I would like to use perineal massage to help avoid the need for an episiotomy.
• Other Episiotomy Preference: I prefer to take my chances with a tear than an episiotomy; unless an episiotomy can prevent a c-section delivery. 

Delivery

• I would like to be allowed to choose the position in which I give birth, including squatting.
• I would like My husband, Casey and/or nurses to support me and my legs as necessary during the pushing stage.
• I would like to try to deliver in a hands-and-knees position.
• I would like to try to deliver in a squatting position, using My husband, Casey or a squatting bar for support.  This will only be permitted if Casey and I can support my weight, the nurses and doc will not provide assistance.
• Even if I am fully dilated, and assuming My baby is not in distress, I would like to try to wait until I feel the urge to push before beginning the pushing phase.
• I would appreciate having the room lights turned low for the actual delivery.
• I would appreciate having the room as quiet as possible when My baby is born.
• I would like to have My baby placed on my stomach/chest immediately after delivery.
• Other Delivery Preference: Please keep all mirrors out of the room; I do not wish to watch the birth.
• Other Delivery Preference: I do not want my husband or other family members at the foot of the bed.

Immediately After Delivery

• I would like to have My husband, Casey cut the cord.
• I would prefer that the umbilical cord stop pulsating before it is cut.
• I would like to hold My baby while I deliver the placenta and any tissue repairs are made.
• I would like to have My baby evaluated and bathed in my presence.
• I plan to keep My baby near me following birth and would appreciate if the evaluation of My baby can be done with My baby on my abdomen, with both of us covered by a warm blanket, unless there is an unusual situation.
• If My baby must be taken from me to receive medical treatment, My husband, Casey or some other person I designate will accompany My baby at all times.
• I would prefer to hold My baby rather than have (him/her) placed under heat lamps.
• I do not want a routine injection of Pitocin after the delivery to aid in expelling the placenta.  Dr. O said this is ultimately my choice, but if I start to hemorrhage, the doctor will have to be "elbow deep" in my vagina to stop the hemorrhage without any form of anesthesia.
• After the birth, I would prefer to be given a few moments of privacy to urinate on my own before being catheterized.
• Other Immediately After Delivery Preference: Please do not show us the placenta.
• Other Immediately After Delivery Preference: Please let the cord stop pulsating before cutting it; this is very important to us.

Postpartum

• I would like a private room, if available.
• Unless required for health reasons, I do not wish to be separated from my baby.
• I would like to have My baby "room in" and be with me at all times.

Breastfeeding

• I plan to breastfeed My baby and would like to begin nursing very shortly after birth.
• Unless medically necessary, I do not wish to have any bottles given to My baby (including glucose water or plain water).
• I do not want My baby to be given a pacifier.
• I would like more information about breastfeeding.
• I would like to meet with a lactation consultant.

Photo/Video

• I would like to take still photographs during labor and the birth.
• Other Photo/Video Preference: I would like a few photos to be taken during the labor; and I would like both photos and video taken immediately after birth. 

Other

• My support person(s) is/are (support people) and I would like them to be present during labor and/or delivery.
• Other Other Preference: My support person is my husband, Casey Shelton, and I would like him present during labor and delivery.

34 weeks

I'm just a blogging fiend this weekend! 


Baby is now the size of a: honeydew (still)!  She's almost 18 inches long and weighs approximately five pounds.  We continue to have lots of brain development; her little brain has formed billions of neurons, and it is now hooking the neurons and synapses together.  In other news she now urinates about one pint per day, and her is skin is beautifully smooth (thanks to all that adorable baby fat).  I read that babies born between 34 and 37 weeks, having no other health issues, are generally as healthy and developmentally sound as those born full term (aside from a brief stint in the neonatal nursery post delivery).  While I am absolutely ready to no longer be pregnant, her room is still a tad barren...oops!


How I'm feeling:  huge and slow, and tired, of course.  Seeing my reflection is absolutely frightening.  I feel big, but not that big.  And when I walk along side someone (Casey or my mom), I realize how slow I've become; I always have to ask them to wait up or slow down.  My hourly trips to the bathroom have increased to twice hourly; this not only embarrassing, but also frustrating and annoying.  I'm still having bouts of nausea, and I had two random head aches this past week...NOT fun!

Physical differences from last week:  I'm a big cow; see The Ugly Post for more on that.  Here's my weekly pic:

What's been on my mind:  I keep reading that we should have the car seat installed and a hospital bag in the trunk by now....  Hopefully we'll have those things taken care of in the near future.  Other than that, my big to-do is the cook and freeze meal prep, pediatrician interview, and finishing up all of my pregnancy/baby books.  Casey's big to-do is the back yard; don't worry he has help, its just not me, lol.  You can look forward to a post on the cook and freeze meal prep in the near future. 

What I'm looking forward to:  our next birthing class!  Its on Wednesday, and I can't wait!  The teacher is just so funny, I laugh so much from the start to the end of class. 

Random thoughts:  meet "The Baby Mobile".  We spent a good chunk of our Saturday purchasing Casey's new ride, after he sold his junker Jeep on Friday night.  I am soooo jealous that he has four doors!  It is so great to finally have TWO reliable cars in the family; especially with babe's arrival just around the corner.

 

 

Birth Class Part I

Well we went to our first birthing class on Wednesday, and it was phenomenal!  The class is called Birthing Basics & Breathing Techniques, and it is held at Scottsdale Healthcare on Shea.  The class is three weeks long; it meets once a week for THREE hours!  Its unfortunate that its on a Wednesday, because Casey and I are usually curled up in bed by the time the class is over.  I guess these are the sacrifices we make for our babe (lol).

The teacher is a labor and delivery nurse that works at the Shea location, and I LOVE her.  I wish there was a way to request her for my labor and delivery.  She is hilarious, to-the-point, and very informative.  I was dreading the class all day, because I’ve been reading and preparing for this kiddo for over eight months now; I didn’t want to have to go to class too.  After the first five minutes of class I found myself practically choking, that I was laughing so hard; and now I can’t wait for the next two weeks of class!   

We covered a lot of material in three hours.  I surprised myself with how few notes I took; I'm usually the freak scribbling furiously throughout any class, but I guess I didn't have to this time because I knew most of the information she shared...  We talked about warning signs of preterm labor, true labor vs. false labor, timing contractions, some hospital procedures, episiotomies, stages of labor and the labor process overall.

As a side note, the speaker showed us pictures of her grandchildren, and her granddaughter was a breech baby.  Apparently breech babies have misshapen, bowed legs immediately after delivery, because they've been sitting criss-cross applesauce for the past 10 months...but its nothing to worry about.  Their legs straighten out shortly after delivery and their crawling/walking is not affected.  It was alarming to see, and that was why she showed the class - so that we'd be prepared...

Also, I finished my birth plan, so I'll have a post on that coming up.  Woooooooo!  We are just knocking out this baby to-do list!  Happy Saturday peeps!  :-)

The Ugly Post

Warning:  cranky, depressing post below...

Let me start out by saying I love my baby.  I also love being pregnant.  What I do not love is how I've dealt with being pregnant. 

Today I had a prenatal visit, and as I mentioned on Sunday, I had to step on the scale.  I'm up 30 pounds at 33 weeks 5 days (hell, who am I kidding, I like to call myself 34 weeks in conversation).  That means that I'll finish this beautiful experience closer to forty pounds heavier than thirty pounds heavier; this was not part of the plan people. Now, the reason I say that I do not love the way I've dealt with being pregnant, is because from the moment I saw that little "+" on the pregnancy test, I stopped counting calories and I divorced my elliptical. If you take anything away from my blogging journey, PLEASE take this advice:

When you get pregnant...continue working out every single day, and eat as if you were trying to maintain your non-pregnant weight. 

Think I'm wrong?  Think you'll enjoy being large while you can?  You won't.  You'll watch the numbers creep up on the scale, and you'll get depressed.  And this is not supposed to be a depressing time.

Two other pieces of bad news that I'd like to share with my devoted readers:

1)  The baby is still in breech position.  I asked the doc today to see if she could tell how the babe was lying, and she wasn't 100% sure, but she was pretty sure that the baby was in breech.  My hopes and dreams of having a vaginal delivery are fading.

2) I have a stretch mark.  A full-fledged stretch mark.  And there is at least one more developing.  I noticed it a week or so ago.  On one of my many trips to the bathroom, I looked at my belly like I always do, and while looking at my front, I didn't see anything.  It was when I turned to look at my profile that I saw a strange red mark.  I called Casey over panic-stricken, and he confirmed that it looked like the start of a stretch mark.  I just broke down and cried for a very long time.  I know it may seem shallow, but its my body, and I officially can never wear a bikini again.  I'm 20 years old, and I'm condemned to one piece bathing suits for the rest of my life.  By the time I could afford a tummy tuck I'll be old and wrinkly, and to the point where I shouldn't be wearing bikinis.

And on that note, I bid you adieu.  Have a pleasant weekend folks.  You can look forward to my weekly stats post and a post on our birthing class in the near future.

33 weeks

Before I start with the weekly stats, I have to tell you!  I had my first pregnancy dream, and it only took 8 months, but I finally had one!!!  LOL.  In my dream I went into labor, and Casey and Fallon brought me to a swimming pool to deliver.  No one called my doctor, instead we had one random, frazzled nurse deliver the baby.  The labor was pretty short, it only felt like a few hours, and it was painful, but not as painful as I expected it to be.  In the end we had a little baby boy, I dropped 30 pounds immediately after delivery, and my stomach was flat and perfect.  I would not mind that kind of L & D experience one bit!  Haha



Baby is now the size of a: honeydew!  She weighs about 4.5 pounds, and now gains weight at a rate of 8 ounces per week.  And we are now past the 17 inch mark in height; I read we can expect up to an inch in growth this week alone!  Her skeleton is hardening, her brain is developing, and her little body is soaking up the antibodies present in my body.  She's also starting to coordinate breathing with sucking and swallowing, and she keeps her eyes open while she's awake.  I can't wait to see those little peepers.  We can expect her to descend into my pelvis anytime in the next 6 weeks. 


How I'm feeling:  like a big, fat pregnant lady.  I waddle; my feet swell and ache; and I drool over strawberries.  On Saturday we ran A LOT of errands, as a result my right ankle swelled to the point that I had a golf ball sized lump on the inside of my foot; it actually hurt to walk.  Other than the ankle thing, all the usual symptoms are still present: heartburn, fatigue, back pain...nothing I can't handle.  Overall I still love being pregnant.  :-)

Physical differences from last week:  I have to step on a scale in t minus 3 days.  Booooooo!  I really do not want to know what my weight gain is anymore.  Here's my weekly pic, lookin huge:

What's been on my mind:  our birth plan.  I've spent all of my lunch hours for the past few weeks researching and constructing the ideal birth plan.  Now, I don't expect everything to go according to plan, but I want to go in there with certain goals and I hope to meet most of them.  I would *like* a med-free, intervention-free birth; but I am not going to freak out or feel like a failure if I decide I need an epidural or some form of medication/intervention.  My #1 priority is to avoid a c-section delivery; I will exhaust ANY and EVERY method available before committing to a c-section.  I don't want the scar, I don't want the painful recovery, I don't want any of the negative associated with c-section deliveries.  I just pray that my little babe cooperates, and is currently in the head down position or planning on shifting to this position by D-Day!

What I'm looking forward to:  our birthing classes.  They start this Wednesday.  We signed up for a three-part class; its three, three-hour classes, over the course of three weeks.  The time slot is not ideal, but our hospital (surprisingly) did not offer a wide variety of classes.  And of course I can't wait for the baby shower!  Even though my large butt is having a hard time finding a cute outfit for the shower, I'm still very excited to see all of my friends and family and celebrate our babe! 

Random thoughts:  we built the headboard for the twin bed in the nursery this past weekend.  And we bought a cute comforter that coordinates with the coloring in the bedding and other decor.  I can't wait for the rest of this room to come together!!!  Here's a pic of the twin bed set-up (I expect to spend many nights in this bed the first few weeks that she's home with us):

 

 

32 weeks

I received my first exceptionally rude comment this week:

Idiot co-worker: "How much longer have you got to go?" 
Me:  "About 8 weeks..."
Idiot co-worker (with a horrified look on her face):  "8 weeks?!  And you're already that big!  You look like you're ready to pop!!!"

What the hell lady!  How did I go from having the world's tiniest bump to "About to Pop" status in less than a month?!?!

Baby is now the size of a: large jicama!  We've got a four pounder on our hands people, and she's still between 16-17 inches tall.  Her skeleton is rapidly ossifying (turning from cartilage into solid bone), hence the powerful kicks and jabs.  She's also gaining weight rapidly; she'll gain about half of her birth weight during the next 8 weeks.  She now has fingernails, toenails, and peach fuzz for hair (with my luck she'll take after me, and be completely bald until she's 3 years old).  Her skin is nice and soft, and continues to plump up every week. I can't wait to kiss those little cheeks!


How I'm feeling:  pretty good, all things considered.  My energy level still sucks, I'm having lots of BH contractions, and I'm seeing a spike in back pain this week.  I've had back pain from the beginning of this pregnancy, I've just always done my best to push it to the back of my mind, but its getting hard to ignore these days.  Last night we watched a movie (so I was in the same position for a couple of hours), and when I stood up, my legs buckled beneath me; Casey had to literally walk me to bed and put me in bed.  Clearly, this child is having a love affair with my sciatic nerve.

Physical differences from last week:  at this point in the pregnancy I should be gaining about a pound a week, and half of that gain is going to the baby. I haven't checked my weight in awhile...not planning on doing it anytime soon.

What's been on my mind:  I've been hoping all the kicks in the ribs are a good indicator that she's moved to the head down position.  There's no way her teeny tiny fists could pack that kind of punch this early, right? 

What I'm looking forward to:  labor.  It sounds strange; who could possibly be excited for the most painful experience of their life?  ME.  I can't wait to meet this little person in my belly.  I can't wait to see her daddy holding her and kissing her for the first time.  She is going to be absolutely perfect; she will be the greatest accomplishment in either of our lives.

Random thoughts:  My belly has a mind of its own.  They say you should feel ten movements in an hour...I'm lucky if I go even a minute without some kind of kick, jab, or pinch.  During the week we were sitting on the couch, and my belly jumped five or six times in a row.  Casey even saw!  We both just died laughing.  Its as if she's saying, "Hey guys, look at me!  I want  to play!!!"