Well, I've made it two weeks! Every day baby is stronger! Today we had an ultrasound and he is a good five pounds now, maybe a little more. He looks great, and seeing him, hearing him, and counting movements has me falling in love with him more and more.
We are going to have the baby during week 36. Which will probably mean on the 11th or 12th of March. That means, just two more weeks here in the hospital! Most babies do well when born at 36 weeks, especially with the steroid shots. I am so thankful we have made it this far. I also continue to be grateful for finding this condition. Without ultrasound, and the color contrast (that is only sometimes done now) this would have been overlooked.
John and Josh and the four boys are holding strong at the house. Tonight they called and asked me to look out my window-they were stopped and waving from the van on the side of the road. Today is one of the few days I haven't seen them. They miss me, and I miss them.
Hoping the days pass quickly. Still working on a quilt, and will be starting a new book. I also have the Harry Potter movies and am thinking of doing a marathon with those while I quilt or scrapbook. Vinny's first year book is complete! I was thinking though, that I should start new baby's book while I am here, since I already have ultrasound pictures, cards, etc.
If you are reading this you probably have prayed, sent something,visited, made a meal, watched my boys, or just care. Thanks to all of you! Our family needs and appreciates your support.
Wednesday, February 27, 2013
Monday, February 25, 2013
Weekend Troubles and Blessings
The weekend was a bit of a mess for awhile. All I can say, is thank goodness for friends. There are amazing people in this world.
Josh was on call Friday. What this means is he goes to work at 6:30 AM and doesn't come home until after rounds on Saturday-usually around 1pm. He often hasn't slept, or slept very little. Work has been very kind this last week, but you can't mess with the surgery call schedule-it is a complicated matrix and short of me having the baby, there isn't a way out.
Orlando started throwing up early Friday morning and continued to do so until Sat. morning. My friend Jill, had agreed to take Vinny on Friday and then all the boys Friday night. She came over early Friday morning, heard Josh on the phone with me, knew Orlando was barfing-and took him along with Vinny! She has two small girls, and obviously I didn't want them to get sick, but I really didn't know what we would do. She simply stated, "oh, my girls could get sick from a grocery cart. Send him with me."
Amazing.
The next obstacle came Saturday. Josh's brother, John-David, is coming to stay with Josh and the boys for awhile to get us through this. His flight went from 1:30 to after 10pm. Of course, the airport is 45 minutes away, and the boys needed to be in bed-especially Vinny and Orlando-since he was sick. Again, a friend saved the day. She came over late, and stayed until the boys could get home-it was after midnight when they finally made it back.
A friend from college, who now lives in Utah with his family ordered us Chinese food on Saturday. I couldn't believe they ordered food across the country for us.
Too often we hear of the evils of man, the crimes, and horrible things.
I was reminded in many ways of the goodness of other people. Sure, I have been quite frustrated not being able to take care of my family, but I am also appreciating the wonderful people in my life.
Josh was on call Friday. What this means is he goes to work at 6:30 AM and doesn't come home until after rounds on Saturday-usually around 1pm. He often hasn't slept, or slept very little. Work has been very kind this last week, but you can't mess with the surgery call schedule-it is a complicated matrix and short of me having the baby, there isn't a way out.
Orlando started throwing up early Friday morning and continued to do so until Sat. morning. My friend Jill, had agreed to take Vinny on Friday and then all the boys Friday night. She came over early Friday morning, heard Josh on the phone with me, knew Orlando was barfing-and took him along with Vinny! She has two small girls, and obviously I didn't want them to get sick, but I really didn't know what we would do. She simply stated, "oh, my girls could get sick from a grocery cart. Send him with me."
Amazing.
The next obstacle came Saturday. Josh's brother, John-David, is coming to stay with Josh and the boys for awhile to get us through this. His flight went from 1:30 to after 10pm. Of course, the airport is 45 minutes away, and the boys needed to be in bed-especially Vinny and Orlando-since he was sick. Again, a friend saved the day. She came over late, and stayed until the boys could get home-it was after midnight when they finally made it back.
A friend from college, who now lives in Utah with his family ordered us Chinese food on Saturday. I couldn't believe they ordered food across the country for us.
Too often we hear of the evils of man, the crimes, and horrible things.
I was reminded in many ways of the goodness of other people. Sure, I have been quite frustrated not being able to take care of my family, but I am also appreciating the wonderful people in my life.
Friday, February 22, 2013
Days 8 and 9
Worked on robot quilt with a friend, listened to Call the Midwife book on CD.
Rough night trying to sleep.
Day 9: Took a morning nap because I was tired, and well, I can do that. Strange. So.much.down.time.
Had some visitors :) I'm feeling loved with the number of people willing to stop by. Also, Orlando vomited this morning and couldn't go to school. That made child care more complicated this morning. Thank goodness for Jill. She took Vinny as planned AND Orlando. I owe her big-time. (Of course, Josh was on call and couldn't be there).
I have no idea where I would be without friends.
Also, a great package today from my sister-in-laws!!! Yay! Full of things for the kids to do when they come to my room. I now have a special "boy-toy-drawer" in my room. Hopefully, visits will be easier.
P.S. exciting announcement! The LDS Church announced 58 new missions today!! One of which divided the mission I served in: Curitiba, Brazil! So wonderful to see the growth of the Church and the message of the restoration. So glad I served a small part in that growth.
Wednesday, February 20, 2013
One Week
Today marks a week that I was incarcerated-I mean, hospitalized. I thought I'd share seven things that make this easier.
1. My husband works here. He can stop by once or twice a day for a few minutes in addition to when he brings the kids at night. How wonderful to see him and discuss whatever we want!
2. We live close, really close. So, if I do need something, Josh or a friend can bring it over to me easily.
3. Visitors. I like people, so visits are nice.
4. It is winter in WI. We've had more snow and it's been many degrees below freezing. Despite the good windows, Jack frost was still inside my window pane this morning. Because of the weather, I'm not missing too much outside. I'm so glad it is not spring, summer, or fall all of which are quite nice here in Marshfield.
5. I don't have an IV, and I'm not trapped to my bed. I can walk down the hall, do some limited stretching, and at least move some.
6. Projects: taxes, Vinny's First Year Book, and a quilt. I lost my quilt mojo over a year ago, but I'm getting inspired again. My oldest three have quilts I made them, Vinny doesn't, so I might make Vinny one, and then baby if I get to it. At least get them cut out and designed.
7. WIFI. I can keep in touch with others via this blog and Facebook Not to mention pay bills, surf the web, and Netflix! I'm getting hooked on Alias and Lost, never watched either before now.
Okay,there they are: 7 things that help a bad situation be better. But, without saying the help of friends has been most valuable. I didn't realize how many friends I had in Marshfield until this happened, so that is also a silver lining. Josh's brother comes in Saturday and will relieve some pressure from Josh and friends. :)
Finally, this scripture I read this morning touched my heart, "The Lord did strengthen them that they could bear up their burdens with ease and they did submit cheerfully and with patience to all the will of the Lord."
Mosiah 24:15
1. My husband works here. He can stop by once or twice a day for a few minutes in addition to when he brings the kids at night. How wonderful to see him and discuss whatever we want!
2. We live close, really close. So, if I do need something, Josh or a friend can bring it over to me easily.
3. Visitors. I like people, so visits are nice.
4. It is winter in WI. We've had more snow and it's been many degrees below freezing. Despite the good windows, Jack frost was still inside my window pane this morning. Because of the weather, I'm not missing too much outside. I'm so glad it is not spring, summer, or fall all of which are quite nice here in Marshfield.
5. I don't have an IV, and I'm not trapped to my bed. I can walk down the hall, do some limited stretching, and at least move some.
6. Projects: taxes, Vinny's First Year Book, and a quilt. I lost my quilt mojo over a year ago, but I'm getting inspired again. My oldest three have quilts I made them, Vinny doesn't, so I might make Vinny one, and then baby if I get to it. At least get them cut out and designed.
7. WIFI. I can keep in touch with others via this blog and Facebook Not to mention pay bills, surf the web, and Netflix! I'm getting hooked on Alias and Lost, never watched either before now.
Okay,there they are: 7 things that help a bad situation be better. But, without saying the help of friends has been most valuable. I didn't realize how many friends I had in Marshfield until this happened, so that is also a silver lining. Josh's brother comes in Saturday and will relieve some pressure from Josh and friends. :)
Finally, this scripture I read this morning touched my heart, "The Lord did strengthen them that they could bear up their burdens with ease and they did submit cheerfully and with patience to all the will of the Lord."
Mosiah 24:15
Tuesday, February 19, 2013
Day 6
Feb. 19, 2013
Today was very slow at times, but still had some great things. A friend came by at lunchtime and brought some fun movies, treats, etc. Another family stopped in, and I got to see my own boys for an hour. Vinny and I played with an etch-a-sketch-I drew and he erased and said, "bye bye" or "all gone". We did that for several minutes. The boys are all doing well. Josh runs a tighter ship than I do, and it is probably good for them to get a strong dose of dad, instead of just push-over mom!
I am working on finishing Vinny's scrapbook. I only scrapbook their fist year of life, and though Vinny is almost 2, his isn't done. It will be though! Probably by the end of tomorrow! I find watching TV or a movie while scrap-booking to be far less boring than just TV alone.
Finally, my book group called in so I participated via speaker phone. That was nice to be included!
I will admit though, today was the hardest day yet as far as big stretches of time that seemed to drag. From am until my friend showed at lunch took forever. Then, it was another long stretch before my family came. This evening was full though, and that helps! I also started crying at random today a few times. Hormones? Stress? Situation? Yes, I guess so. I don't feel depressed, but I did feel melancholy for a bit. Feeling better tonight though, and I continue to be amazed at the help our family is receiving from near and far.
Today was very slow at times, but still had some great things. A friend came by at lunchtime and brought some fun movies, treats, etc. Another family stopped in, and I got to see my own boys for an hour. Vinny and I played with an etch-a-sketch-I drew and he erased and said, "bye bye" or "all gone". We did that for several minutes. The boys are all doing well. Josh runs a tighter ship than I do, and it is probably good for them to get a strong dose of dad, instead of just push-over mom!
I am working on finishing Vinny's scrapbook. I only scrapbook their fist year of life, and though Vinny is almost 2, his isn't done. It will be though! Probably by the end of tomorrow! I find watching TV or a movie while scrap-booking to be far less boring than just TV alone.
Finally, my book group called in so I participated via speaker phone. That was nice to be included!
I will admit though, today was the hardest day yet as far as big stretches of time that seemed to drag. From am until my friend showed at lunch took forever. Then, it was another long stretch before my family came. This evening was full though, and that helps! I also started crying at random today a few times. Hormones? Stress? Situation? Yes, I guess so. I don't feel depressed, but I did feel melancholy for a bit. Feeling better tonight though, and I continue to be amazed at the help our family is receiving from near and far.
Monday, February 18, 2013
Day Four
Day Four: Sunday February 17, 2013
Well, Sunday was certainly a day of rest! It was a very slow day. My highlights were having the sacrament brought by, and my family in the evening.
I go to church every week and take bread and water to remember Jesus. I have never had it blessed and given to just me, always a congregation. It was special. I don't have all the answers, but I do trust in a loving God, and try to be a good person, though I know I fall short.
The boys came last night, and there is a small lounge area here that I can walk to (still on the OB floor). It had a few toys, a couch, and a table so we turned it into "home" for the evening. I sure am missing those boys of mine!
I also deleted thousands of emails from all the way back to 2008! My inbox has never felt so clean!
Today is Day Five and it too is proving slow. It's 10:40 and my taxes are done! That was one goal for the day. I actually filed them incorrectly (left out some income) and had to do an amendment. It's been a pain, but I believe they are ready to mail in (you can't efile an amendment). Two states and a rental property, plus Josh did some independent contract stuff made things messy. Next year should be more straight forward. Honestly, I'm just glad they are done.
Talked with my high-risk doctor. She reassured me this is where I need to be, and that baby should be taken at 36 weeks max. We have an ultrasound on the 27th to determine if the date needs moved up sooner (but it will not be pushed back). Hopefully, he grows to 36 weeks, then chances of him coming home obviously increase. He does look so strong and healthy, and despite the circumstances is getting what he needs from the placenta, cord. I feel like I'm bonding with him more and more. I get to often hear his heart beat, concentrate on his movements, and ponder what his name will be.
Well, Sunday was certainly a day of rest! It was a very slow day. My highlights were having the sacrament brought by, and my family in the evening.
I go to church every week and take bread and water to remember Jesus. I have never had it blessed and given to just me, always a congregation. It was special. I don't have all the answers, but I do trust in a loving God, and try to be a good person, though I know I fall short.
The boys came last night, and there is a small lounge area here that I can walk to (still on the OB floor). It had a few toys, a couch, and a table so we turned it into "home" for the evening. I sure am missing those boys of mine!
I also deleted thousands of emails from all the way back to 2008! My inbox has never felt so clean!
Today is Day Five and it too is proving slow. It's 10:40 and my taxes are done! That was one goal for the day. I actually filed them incorrectly (left out some income) and had to do an amendment. It's been a pain, but I believe they are ready to mail in (you can't efile an amendment). Two states and a rental property, plus Josh did some independent contract stuff made things messy. Next year should be more straight forward. Honestly, I'm just glad they are done.
Talked with my high-risk doctor. She reassured me this is where I need to be, and that baby should be taken at 36 weeks max. We have an ultrasound on the 27th to determine if the date needs moved up sooner (but it will not be pushed back). Hopefully, he grows to 36 weeks, then chances of him coming home obviously increase. He does look so strong and healthy, and despite the circumstances is getting what he needs from the placenta, cord. I feel like I'm bonding with him more and more. I get to often hear his heart beat, concentrate on his movements, and ponder what his name will be.
Saturday, February 16, 2013
Day 3
 |
| My neighbor had the kids while Josh was on call and they came for picnic lunch! Today I had a visit from my kids! Vinny loves the taxi cabs here at the hospital and wouldn't get out the entire visit! Mia (neighbor) Ammon, Orlando, Zach, myself, and Ivan enjoying some treats on the couch. How wonderful for visitors, especially my boys! Also, a friend brought dinner which was great. I finished a book, but it is going to be a long month. However, still enjoying long hot showers without interruption! Trying to stay positive, today did feel longer than yesterday. |
Friday, February 15, 2013
Day 2 Feb. 15
Day 2
Same as the first, a little bit louder and a little bit worse....
No, it hasn't been a bad day at all. I actually am quite spoiled at the moment. I have goodies to eat, books to read, and no where to go. I have had visitors today, and others loving on my kids for me.
Vinny came by for a visit this morning and lit right up to see me. He cried when he left, and I wish I could hold him and read to him. I spoke with the other boys on the phone tonight-they are excited for a sleepover since Josh is on call all night. The school nurse let me know Ivan fell and bumped his head-during Math. Who needs Math? He got a black eye last week while sledding at recess and a different bump 2 or 3 weeks ago. The nurse and I are becoming friends. I think he is just fine, but it is slightly swollen, we (I mean my friend who has him) will keep an eye on him. Ivan also asked if he could stay the night with me. It is good to feel love from my boys who usually just wrestle and complain about chores, and avoid my affection as if I could really spread cooties. These sweet questions (and Vinny's tears) melt my heart.
Speaking of hearts, I thought I would explain my condition in a little more detail. My placenta is in the shape of an upside down heart, more rounded than pointy. The umbilical cord has three main vessels go from the belly button to the placenta and then branch out like spider webs or tree roots. They go along the surface of the placenta and then dive deep down. One of these vessels, travels along the top, comes off the placenta all together and hangs like a necklace between the divots (butt cheeks) of this heart shape, it then connects again to the top of the placenta and dives down. So, baby is getting his needed nutrients through this vein and the other "roots" and is growing well. The scary thing is that it is so fragile and if it were to have any strain put on it or changes it could rupture. It carries babies blood, not mine. Babies this small have about a 5 minute survival window and then sadly, they just don't make it due to blood loss. Additionally, the placenta planted at the bottom of the uterus vs. the top or side, putting this vessel right above the cervix. Bad geography! If there are to be changes it will be an effacing or dilating cervix. The uterus also will grow, and so is baby, and things can move, so for all these reasons I must sit just outside of an OR. Just in case. And I will deliver at 36 weeks because baby will be essentially term and should do okay, and the risk of an early labor too scary.
If Josh has free time, he will come by tonight and sleep on the pull-out in here. I guess this is his new "on-call" room. I hope to see him.
Thanks for every one's concern. I've also been asked to make sure this website is being passed around, and so far we are getting plenty and it is so wonderful to know my family is being taken care of, so thanks to all of you: It's called http://www.takethemameal.com/ and username is McElderry password is Lara
Love,
Lara
Same as the first, a little bit louder and a little bit worse....
No, it hasn't been a bad day at all. I actually am quite spoiled at the moment. I have goodies to eat, books to read, and no where to go. I have had visitors today, and others loving on my kids for me.
Vinny came by for a visit this morning and lit right up to see me. He cried when he left, and I wish I could hold him and read to him. I spoke with the other boys on the phone tonight-they are excited for a sleepover since Josh is on call all night. The school nurse let me know Ivan fell and bumped his head-during Math. Who needs Math? He got a black eye last week while sledding at recess and a different bump 2 or 3 weeks ago. The nurse and I are becoming friends. I think he is just fine, but it is slightly swollen, we (I mean my friend who has him) will keep an eye on him. Ivan also asked if he could stay the night with me. It is good to feel love from my boys who usually just wrestle and complain about chores, and avoid my affection as if I could really spread cooties. These sweet questions (and Vinny's tears) melt my heart.
Speaking of hearts, I thought I would explain my condition in a little more detail. My placenta is in the shape of an upside down heart, more rounded than pointy. The umbilical cord has three main vessels go from the belly button to the placenta and then branch out like spider webs or tree roots. They go along the surface of the placenta and then dive deep down. One of these vessels, travels along the top, comes off the placenta all together and hangs like a necklace between the divots (butt cheeks) of this heart shape, it then connects again to the top of the placenta and dives down. So, baby is getting his needed nutrients through this vein and the other "roots" and is growing well. The scary thing is that it is so fragile and if it were to have any strain put on it or changes it could rupture. It carries babies blood, not mine. Babies this small have about a 5 minute survival window and then sadly, they just don't make it due to blood loss. Additionally, the placenta planted at the bottom of the uterus vs. the top or side, putting this vessel right above the cervix. Bad geography! If there are to be changes it will be an effacing or dilating cervix. The uterus also will grow, and so is baby, and things can move, so for all these reasons I must sit just outside of an OR. Just in case. And I will deliver at 36 weeks because baby will be essentially term and should do okay, and the risk of an early labor too scary.
If Josh has free time, he will come by tonight and sleep on the pull-out in here. I guess this is his new "on-call" room. I hope to see him.
Thanks for every one's concern. I've also been asked to make sure this website is being passed around, and so far we are getting plenty and it is so wonderful to know my family is being taken care of, so thanks to all of you: It's called http://www.takethemameal.com/ and username is McElderry password is Lara
Love,
Lara
Thursday, February 14, 2013
Day One: Valentine's Day
I am going to try and blog regularly while here in the hospital. Perhaps I will even due some catching up?
Anyway, my first day here has gone well. I got exactly what a mom would want for Valentine's Day: A break from the kids, no little ones joining me in the bathroom, control of the remote, no cleaning or cooking, and flowers and chocolate! But, my favorite was this poem from Josh: (we got 6 inches of snow last night, and it was his first night to be solo with the boys).
Happy Valentine's Day today.
How terrible, a half foot of snow!
It is only a flurry compared to the fury
of your childs' and my last night's row.
Tears and screams and crying heard
at increased decibels!
Those sweet little children, I'm sure come
straight from hell!
The basement is clean. The children are too.
I didn't go too berserk.
But still I inquire with little to no ire,
When are you returning to work?
Another sweet moment was my card to Ammon. It said that I loved him more than chocolate. Josh asked Ammon about it, stating how much mom LOVES chocolate. Ammon responded with, "I understand dad because I love Vinny more than chocolate!"
I guess sweet moments like that can make up for Ivan breaking Orlando's elbow last week?!
No changes here at the hospital. Had the second of two steroid shots for baby lungs and learned a few bed rest exercises from the physical therapist. Many people helping us with meals and child care, and we are looking forward to John-Davids visit that will calm the schedules and shuffling down.
Love to all,
Lara
Anyway, my first day here has gone well. I got exactly what a mom would want for Valentine's Day: A break from the kids, no little ones joining me in the bathroom, control of the remote, no cleaning or cooking, and flowers and chocolate! But, my favorite was this poem from Josh: (we got 6 inches of snow last night, and it was his first night to be solo with the boys).
Happy Valentine's Day today.
How terrible, a half foot of snow!
It is only a flurry compared to the fury
of your childs' and my last night's row.
Tears and screams and crying heard
at increased decibels!
Those sweet little children, I'm sure come
straight from hell!
The basement is clean. The children are too.
I didn't go too berserk.
But still I inquire with little to no ire,
When are you returning to work?
Another sweet moment was my card to Ammon. It said that I loved him more than chocolate. Josh asked Ammon about it, stating how much mom LOVES chocolate. Ammon responded with, "I understand dad because I love Vinny more than chocolate!"
I guess sweet moments like that can make up for Ivan breaking Orlando's elbow last week?!
No changes here at the hospital. Had the second of two steroid shots for baby lungs and learned a few bed rest exercises from the physical therapist. Many people helping us with meals and child care, and we are looking forward to John-Davids visit that will calm the schedules and shuffling down.
Love to all,
Lara
Wednesday, February 13, 2013
Room 244, St. Joseph's Hospital
Well, I've got good news and bad news. The bad news is that I am hospitalized for what will likely be a month. In two weeks, we do another ultrasound, chances of things changing are small, and we set a due date for around March 11th (should be April 8). So I'm here for a month, then a C-section and pray for a strong baby.
The good news is Josh is on a lighter rotation for February. We may get some family coming in about 10 days (Josh's brother followed by his mom-I think, I hope). Until then, phone calls are already starting for friends and church family willing to help.
The bad news is there is vasculature directly over my cervix that is holding baby blood. If anything happens to disturb this we have only a matter of minutes to keep baby alive. It is a condition called Vasa Previa.
The good news is I have a history of four births, none of which were early, so it is unlikely my water will suddenly break, or labor will start. It is also unlikely that the vein would just rupture on its own.
The bad news is I'm stuck here because the "what if" is just too great of a risk, and the good news is he is around 4.5 lbs already.
I had a steroid shot for his lungs, and will get another tomorrow. We monitor the baby on occasion, and I take it easy. I'm allowed to walk to the shower, but not leave the floor. I also worry about my kids and my husband-his work and schedule.
One.day.at.a.time.
The good news is Josh is on a lighter rotation for February. We may get some family coming in about 10 days (Josh's brother followed by his mom-I think, I hope). Until then, phone calls are already starting for friends and church family willing to help.
The bad news is there is vasculature directly over my cervix that is holding baby blood. If anything happens to disturb this we have only a matter of minutes to keep baby alive. It is a condition called Vasa Previa.
The good news is I have a history of four births, none of which were early, so it is unlikely my water will suddenly break, or labor will start. It is also unlikely that the vein would just rupture on its own.
The bad news is I'm stuck here because the "what if" is just too great of a risk, and the good news is he is around 4.5 lbs already.
I had a steroid shot for his lungs, and will get another tomorrow. We monitor the baby on occasion, and I take it easy. I'm allowed to walk to the shower, but not leave the floor. I also worry about my kids and my husband-his work and schedule.
One.day.at.a.time.
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