tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-35235104862721444522024-03-13T10:20:10.116-07:00Wardlow FamilyPCOS, Infertility, Stillbirth, Parenting After A LossMercyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07450337356011519119noreply@blogger.comBlogger68125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3523510486272144452.post-79346699503970712262011-01-27T11:54:00.000-08:002011-01-27T12:08:55.727-08:00The Sweetest ThingToday's topic is courtesy of Faces of Loss, Faces of Hope Monthly Writing Challenge: Write about something special a friend, family member, or other loved one did for you after your baby died that really touched your heart.<br /><br />After Willow died my friends and family were suddenly at a loss for words. What do you say to a woman that lost the baby inside of her, during her second trimester. And I don't blame them, if I was them at that time I wouldn't know what to say either. While some friends, coworkers and even family avoided me, others reached out the only way they knew how. I received caring cards, fragrant flowers and even a GIANT fruit basket. Some people baked dishes and dropped off treats. I appreciated all the kind gestures. But, by far the sweetest thing anyone has ever done since my baby died was to say her name. Willow. Willow wasn't a fetus or a product of conception. She wasn't just any baby. She was my daughter and she was alive inside of me for 5 1/2 months. She had a name and it was Willow. I'm not afraid to say her name aloud, no matter how sad her loss is to me. <br /><br />If you know someone who has lost a child, acknowledgment is very important to them. Acknowledge their baby, their baby's birthday, the anniversary of their baby's death or just simply call them by their name. It's the sweetest thing you can do for a baby-loss mother.Mercyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07450337356011519119noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3523510486272144452.post-80454214160228211402011-01-24T20:17:00.000-08:002011-01-24T20:21:54.233-08:00<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjbAz6VZlEZSB-WChmvZJpnacC3git0Xlbbt86J8nL3QWbYrWWextk3dvTWiSrgTM0rx-CPP15vIGGH7WzjiVglsDBvnmkfngJqjUi0RA89W-Xorqk9CVyXhB0wzaZYN0ey4XMlVWiq5y4/s1600/go+pack+go+129.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 200px; height: 150px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjbAz6VZlEZSB-WChmvZJpnacC3git0Xlbbt86J8nL3QWbYrWWextk3dvTWiSrgTM0rx-CPP15vIGGH7WzjiVglsDBvnmkfngJqjUi0RA89W-Xorqk9CVyXhB0wzaZYN0ey4XMlVWiq5y4/s200/go+pack+go+129.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5565973835051713682" /></a>Mercyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07450337356011519119noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3523510486272144452.post-1680315762167313252011-01-21T06:43:00.000-08:002011-01-21T06:52:45.144-08:00If You Can't Beat 'em Join 'em (unless they are the Bears!)I don't like football. I never did. Not only do I NOT understand what's going on most of the time, I find it incredibly boring. Every Sunday I would grab my credit cards and go shopping while my husband rotted on the couch watching several games in a row. I reminded him that football made me spend money. Then the playoffs would come around. We wouldn't go to church, we wouldn't even leave the house. We would have to plan whole days around game time. It was frustrating.<br /><br />Then something happened. I think I just gave up. Maybe I got caught up in all the hoopla. The Packers are in the playoffs and I've actually watched a few games from beginning to end. I may have talked through most of the games. Asked many questions, commented on sweaty butts, funny names and God awful uniform color combination's. But it's a start, right? I think my husband is happy just to be able to skip a fun-filled Sunday at the Art Museum or shopping for pacifier clips and coloring books at Target. Although he doesn't need to fret. There are two more game days left and then he belongs to me!Mercyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07450337356011519119noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3523510486272144452.post-67201047796531638752011-01-19T17:23:00.000-08:002011-01-19T17:38:13.332-08:00LostToday a close friend and coworker came to me for advice. She was in tears after receiving bad news from her best friend. After trying to get pregnant for some time and fertility treatments her friend was finally pregnant. She was cautiously optimistic about the news. However, she began to experience some spotting and was nervous. Earlier this morning, she found out the baby she had been carrying for the past 11 weeks passed away. God, do I hate those words! 14 months after losing Willow, those words are still hard to swallow. <br /><br />I automatically go back to my feeling of hopelessness when my baby girl died. The fact that we lost her after trying so hard to get pregnant was adding insult to injury. Although, no one should lose a baby. Regardless if they are young, old, fertile, gave a baby up for adoption or had an abortion as a teenager. I'm not saying I am pro choice (I am not saying I am not). What I do know is it is not for me to judge. And I don't believe my God would "punish" someone by killing their baby because of a decision they made years ago.<br /><br />Through all the suffering and pain I've experienced I still don't know why Willow left me, but I do know what I can do because of her death. I reach out to those who have experienced the loss of a child. Today I shared a few tears with my friend, who was obviously hurt by the bad news. I also shared my experience with her and referred her to an awesome website where I know she will be able to find support. I wish babies didn't die, but since we don't live in a perfect world we should come together and support one another whenever possible.Mercyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07450337356011519119noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3523510486272144452.post-63107454126761939562011-01-08T17:25:00.000-08:002011-01-08T17:51:48.514-08:00Balancing ActWork-Life Balance. It's a term they use a lot at work. I have to admit, I am very lucky to work for such a family-friendly corporation. That is definitely a rarity these days as corporations become greedier (often at the expense of their employees). However, as I approached the end of my first week back after Maternity Leave I can't help but think I failed miserably at balancing my work life and my home life. Each day this week looked something like this:<br /><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">5:00-5:15</span> Wake up/ shower (takes me 45 minutes to dress/ hair/ makeup)<br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">5:30</span> Will wakes up Olivia, dresses her (she is often still asleep during this task)<br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">6:00</span> Will feeds Gabriel/ Dresses him (he often waits to puke until after he gets his clothes on and before he gets a bib)<br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">6:00-6:30</span> Olivia eats breakfast while I "do" her hair, car is warmed up, bottles are made, coats on, Gabriel is put in his car seat (he usually vomits again, warranting a fresh bib)<br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">6:35-7:00</span> Travel time to work<br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">7:00-7:15</span> Drop kids off in their rooms, which are on OPPOSITE wings of the daycare!<br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">7:15</span> Turn on my computer at my desk... work... work... email... request... email... work... work... FIRE DRILL... email... work... lunch... work... you get the point.<br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">4:30-4:55</span> Head downstairs to pick up kids, pack up the 50 pictures Olivia drew that day, load kids into COLD car (I sure would love a car starter)<br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">5:00-5:30</span> Commute home, unless it snows. Then I can tack on an additional 15-30 minutes to my commute.<br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">5:30</span> Home. Gabriel is usually crying at this point. I have to give him his Acid Reflux medicine, then he has to wait 20 minutes to eat.<br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">5:30-7:30</span> Feed baby, answer Olivia's MANY questions, make dinner, more questions, clean spit up, burn dinner, respond to Olivia's MANY requests (juice, chocolate milk, cartoons, apples... peeled and cut of course, candy, etc...), change diapers, wipe butts, eat dinner, bath time.<br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">7:30</span> Gabriel's bedtime.<br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">7:30-8:00</span> Read Olivia 3 books. Bedtime. (This is when Will gets home).<br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">8:00</span> I go to sleep, wake up a few times to feed a hungry baby and start it all over again the next day!<br /><br />I'm exhausted just typing this. I feel horrible spending so little time with my children every evening. And don't get me started about how many hours Will works every week. But, I actually enjoy my job. I like to go to work and interact with adults, see my friends, have lunch uninterrupted. I don't get puked on at work and luckily I never have to clean my boss' butt! One of the benefits of my position is that I do get to leave at noon on Fridays! Which gives me extra time with the kids during the weekend. I know it won't always be this insane. One day it will get easier. I'm hoping, anyway.Mercyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07450337356011519119noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3523510486272144452.post-23986743930128155122010-12-23T22:24:00.000-08:002010-12-23T22:32:16.136-08:00Merry ChristmasWhat a year it has been! I can't believe 2010 is coming to a close. 2011 holds many possibilities. I may be returning to school. Will <span style="font-style:italic;">is </span>going back to school... Terrell is graduating from high school and Olivia will begin school for the first time. Gabriel will just start daycare in 2011 and Will and I will be celebrating our 10th wedding anniversary. I have many things to be thankful for, including Gabriel... our little messenger. I want to thank all that have stopped by to read my blog and share my ups and downs, the good and the bad, the struggles and the triumphs. Here's to a wonderful and joyous 2011 for each and everyone of us!!<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiRisPjr3p2lk3p9g3-clncQ-R2sbcrAYAmH8gsWwV-7eMB9DUqVW_9LPS7iFfSIlg1l5QkxWXK_cCiAMS2JMCQUcf_5RBTJ8PLF12PF4UrgBaQK7AE2te6-zbKoCBj8PVFgw7RuJ3H8PQ/s1600/Lili4.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 150px; height: 200px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiRisPjr3p2lk3p9g3-clncQ-R2sbcrAYAmH8gsWwV-7eMB9DUqVW_9LPS7iFfSIlg1l5QkxWXK_cCiAMS2JMCQUcf_5RBTJ8PLF12PF4UrgBaQK7AE2te6-zbKoCBj8PVFgw7RuJ3H8PQ/s200/Lili4.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5554132559902750850" /></a>Mercyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07450337356011519119noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3523510486272144452.post-71977812341847069142010-12-17T21:22:00.001-08:002010-12-17T21:42:30.177-08:002 Month Update; Milk Allergy, Eczema, Relux and Asthma<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjS-iP7mNOJjWd-OuOOsOxD5-_hL4n2Kj62XMwmeRMb4iOYmWE-SgphY3BFpPRR8OL-cNQfOuOEL0BDfU2e5KKSssgCWv0g5UvD3iIcBH46uczRkpVWndaiga1QTuWQ7Rd_jqIRRjVMhQc/s1600/Xmas+10.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 200px; height: 150px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjS-iP7mNOJjWd-OuOOsOxD5-_hL4n2Kj62XMwmeRMb4iOYmWE-SgphY3BFpPRR8OL-cNQfOuOEL0BDfU2e5KKSssgCWv0g5UvD3iIcBH46uczRkpVWndaiga1QTuWQ7Rd_jqIRRjVMhQc/s200/Xmas+10.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5551893283417812258" /></a><br /><br />G had his 2 month check up today with Dr. T. He's weighing in at 11 lbs, 6 oz and is 23 inches. This puts him in the 50th percentile (Olivia is in the 90th percentile for height). He's just a little peanut. He barely fits his 3 month clothes. In fact he is still wearing some newborn outfits!<br /><br />Lately G has been very cranky due to his Acid Reflux. It's hard to watch helplessly while my child is in pain. All I can do is hold him. Although he is often crying at the top of his lungs Olivia never becomes impatient. She doesn't get upset when his crying drowns out her favorite Nick Jr. show. Or if his screams interrupt a very important conversation about something that happened in daycare, her favorite songs or what Santa will bring her. Lately, she has been telling me G is crying because his tummy still hurts. I can't help but wonder there may be a special connection between them. <br /><br />Hopefully, G's dosage increase will help ease his pain. The Dr. says a weight increase as little as 1 pound can affect his medication. So as he grows, his medication dosage will have to be increased. Dr. T also thinks his eczema is a sign of asthma. We're thinking G will take after his Daddy. Allergies, sensitive skin and asthma. We will have to wait and see.<br /><br />Due to G's reflux the Dr. wants him to start oatmeal cereal mixed with fruits and veggies that begin with "P". Peaches, pears, plums, peas, etc. The "P" foods will help with the chronic constipation that soybeans cause. The heaviness of the solid foods are supposed to help keep things contained in his stomach and keep the reflux at bay. I don't want to ask what could be next, but I'm hoping to have a healthy and happy baby in the New Year!<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiwOmTZS_L741-85cjPTKXwMZEO6E1VkLUxPVYYfsf7Ns3k9rS16w83TqQivcCewnIdazVysnzYuIPel4WtgJEYV4c21veTYoesg00x4gm7LWuDGRSETP-ECoafvFuCGBmTsbaiPzTDcKE/s1600/Dec+2010+028.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 200px; height: 150px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiwOmTZS_L741-85cjPTKXwMZEO6E1VkLUxPVYYfsf7Ns3k9rS16w83TqQivcCewnIdazVysnzYuIPel4WtgJEYV4c21veTYoesg00x4gm7LWuDGRSETP-ECoafvFuCGBmTsbaiPzTDcKE/s200/Dec+2010+028.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5551893062030245346" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhCgojE-8r-qLmIELRaE1SEBgmId5_i0xH6JXx98ee8PrjizPwG7qIQbARiSWqZ5xMhG_77G3EXrk3eyX0D8btbPOJUR90jPMGWUw8tNKxYuG7OAXfpY6Gn5VO-bAijAoq_PDdYDqif7fQ/s1600/fam+pics7.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 200px; height: 155px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhCgojE-8r-qLmIELRaE1SEBgmId5_i0xH6JXx98ee8PrjizPwG7qIQbARiSWqZ5xMhG_77G3EXrk3eyX0D8btbPOJUR90jPMGWUw8tNKxYuG7OAXfpY6Gn5VO-bAijAoq_PDdYDqif7fQ/s200/fam+pics7.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5551892487887807218" /></a>Mercyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07450337356011519119noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3523510486272144452.post-66721918551380480492010-12-06T12:16:00.000-08:002010-12-06T12:32:07.626-08:00Snip! Snip!I thought I would continue the subject of penises. But today I'm thinking about Will's. It's been 6 weeks since I gave birth to Gabriel and now it's time to decide on our method of birth control. It seems so crazy that we went from worrying about trying to get pregnant to worrying about preventing pregnancy. We tried many years to get pregnant with Olivia. We used fertility treatment to get pregnant with Willow and who would have thought that 7 1/2 weeks after we lost our baby girl, that we would have a surprise pregnancy... Gabriel! PCOS can be unpredictable, so it's important that we cover our basis. With our luck we would conceive natural triplets or something crazy.<br /><br />I'm a horrible pill taker. I always forget. I never finish prescription antibiotics. I was even terrible about taking my prenatal vitamins. So a birth control pill would be a very bad option for me. So Will decided he will get a vasectomy. That's right! His idea. I know there are other options out there, but we can't afford another baby. But, something inside me feels a little sad knowing this will be my last baby. My last pregnancy. My last chance to nurture a newborn! A vasectomy is so final. I asked Will if he was even a little bit concerned with pursuing this. Without hesitation he exclaimed, "No!". Well, besides, the (minor) surgery itself. <br /><br />I know this is it for us. Our family is as complete as it will ever be (sans Willow). I just have to try and savor every day with Gabriel, Olivia and Terrell. They grow up so fast and before I know it they will be adults having children of their own!Mercyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07450337356011519119noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3523510486272144452.post-73091834381099953262010-12-04T12:12:00.000-08:002010-12-04T12:53:29.975-08:00With or Without?I've been a mother for 17 years, so I am no stranger to unsolicited parenting advice. But, this takes the cake! Recently, while changing my son's diaper I was approached by a curious elderly lady. She then gave me a strange look and commented on his uncircumcised penis. I ignored her rude comment not because I wasn't ready for a debate, but I was only trying to not get poop on my fingers at that very moment. Then it happened last week at a friend's house. I peeled the tape back on my son's disposable diaper and my friend announces, "Look at his Puerto Rican Penis!" And again yesterday I was asked why I did not circumcise Gabriel's penis. Which prompts me to ask, "Why should I?"<br /><br />When my first son was born I did not have him circumcised. The thought of him being in pain was reason enough. There is nothing anyone can say to me that would prove babies don't feel the skin being ripped from their genitals. I may be exaggerating because I know medical advancements have reduced the amount of pain felt during this procedure, but any pain is too much pain. So there was nothing to think about. I knew I would not do it to him. But when I found out we were having a boy this time, I knew there would be a debate. Will wanted Gabriel circumcised, like him. I debated, I showed him videos online, I huffed and puffed but he would not agree. He thought Gabriel should look like his daddy. Finally I gave in, only saying I would not change a single diaper for the first 2 weeks of his life while his poor little pee pee healed! But I continued to research circumcision.<br /><br />I searched online... debated over lunch with coworkers... spoke with my Dr... interrogated my pediatrician and ObGyn. I inquired about their own children. There was no medical evidence proving it should be done, but nothing saying that it can't. Which led me to believe that this was not a medical issue, but rather a one based on presentation. I decided to ask T how he felt about my decision to not have him circumcised. First of all, this was going to be a sensitive subject. So I had to tread lightly. Seems like teenage boys don't care to talk about their penises with their mothers. (If only he knew I was blogging about it too). I was surprised to learn he didn't mind his penis. He was not teased in school or embarrassed at the gym. I asked him what he thought about having Gabriel circumcised and he thought I shouldn't do it. <br /><br />That conversation gave me more ammunition. I was ready to argue my points with my husband and prove him wrong. Then something happened. My husband gave in. Suddenly he no longer "cared". So it was settled. Gabriel would remain intact. (you can thank me later Gabriel!)<br /><br />I personally have never slept with a man who was intact. And I've only seen an uncircumcised penis on a baby. I hear many women talk about how "gross" or "weird" it is. I recently saw an episode of Mario Lopez where he and his wife debated about circumcising their unborn baby. She even admitted she was weirded out by her own husband's penis. This made me curious about other celebrities who may not have been circumcised and I was (somewhat) surprised there is an entire website dedicated to this very subject. After finding a few of my celebrity crushes on the list like Will Smith, Paul Walker and Jay Hernandez, I thought to myself, "Knowing their circumcision status doesn't change the fantasy for me". So if some woman fell in love with my son, I'm sure she would care less if his penis still had a "turtleneck"!Mercyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07450337356011519119noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3523510486272144452.post-69176287454714488122010-11-19T11:29:00.000-08:002010-11-20T08:05:11.266-08:001 Month<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhvKK5rfqt0TXlqnyUFWyWvn6RNmSgPqnfNp3asPPSo8PA3nXsml_qgNJWlUuxw7oCOCzMCfnWw2FykpDs-72pOR9327ZnjfjvewpZvPcqlZG6DtbXuNi-hA56p5vpwkP_ceUcModvlx2U/s1600/Oct+2010+062.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 200px; height: 150px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhvKK5rfqt0TXlqnyUFWyWvn6RNmSgPqnfNp3asPPSo8PA3nXsml_qgNJWlUuxw7oCOCzMCfnWw2FykpDs-72pOR9327ZnjfjvewpZvPcqlZG6DtbXuNi-hA56p5vpwkP_ceUcModvlx2U/s200/Oct+2010+062.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5541662962328279842" /></a><br />I can't believe Gabriel has been with us 1 month already. I know all parents say this, but even in my sleepy stupor these past 4 weeks have flew by! Gabriel has almost reached 10 pounds, 22 inches, which is unbelievable since nothing fits him. He is sill a little peanut wearing newborn sizes. Being a mom to a newborn is a thankless job. All he seems to do is eat, poop, sleep (not necessarily in that order) but then something magical happens... he smiles. And I'm not talking a "I'm letting one loose grin". I real genuine smile with eye contact and all. And then maybe a coo. It just melts my heart every time... yes, even at 3am in the morning!<br /><br />To be honest, it's been hard, especially with a toddler in the mix. Terrell is old enough where he can fend for himself. But what's been the hardest are all the Dr visits and the unknown illnesses that scare even a seasoned Mom like myself. Our latest issue is "Seborrheic Dermatitis". It's thick, crusty scales on his hairline, eyebrows, and behind his ears. Also known as "Cradle Cap". We are treating it with Baby Aquaphor and Hydrocortisone cream. If it doesn't improve in a week, he will be referred to a pediatric dermatologist. What concerns us most is the Dr says there is also a link between seborrheic dermatitis and allergies that appear later. Will has sensitive skin, severe asthma and is allergic to many things from cats to shellfish. <br /><br />In addition to the skin issues, Gabriel has had bowel issues. I had to stop breastfeeding on short notice due to "Breast Milk Jaundice". I didn't think twice when I used a free full-size sample of Similac that I received in the mail. I was grateful to have this sample on hand since I didn't have formula available. I never intended to bottle-feed. But when Gabriel became so irritable, gassy and had explosive diarrhea I didn't know what was wrong. I thought it was colic or the transition to formula from breast milk, but it wasn't until weeks later that I realized that very formula I was using was recalled. He is finally doing better on a different, gentler brand of formula. Although, I complained about breastfeeding, I was going to continue once the Dr gave the okay. But after weeks of bottle-feeding Gabriel refused to nurse. I tried bottle-feeding expressed milk, but he didn't care for that either. I am disappointed and even feel a little guilty, but I gave it my best shot. There is no reason for us both to get frustrated. We will just continue to bond in other ways. Here's to a healthy, happy baby!<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg6QYiEO-wAFvm8B3K0T1j5Q-23Bfd10czRuZBck3QiuEtEPwQu49ubw81fiEjrDAYQT5oEIJqtLOMChHHSHr269UTJATyUA65SbJtA0BvrDhukEclfOzILPgSQsuEjWHcyNHE_gzGy9QA/s1600/Oct+2010+088.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 200px; height: 150px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg6QYiEO-wAFvm8B3K0T1j5Q-23Bfd10czRuZBck3QiuEtEPwQu49ubw81fiEjrDAYQT5oEIJqtLOMChHHSHr269UTJATyUA65SbJtA0BvrDhukEclfOzILPgSQsuEjWHcyNHE_gzGy9QA/s200/Oct+2010+088.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5541662423238284786" /></a>Mercyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07450337356011519119noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3523510486272144452.post-47050179945773965802010-11-15T16:03:00.000-08:002010-11-15T17:51:44.838-08:00BlessingsThanksgiving is right around the corner and even though it's been 1 year since I lost Willow Rose, I still have a lot to be thankful for. Of course I am thankful for my beautiful children, my health and my job. I'm also thankful that after losing Willow, we had the courage to try again. It was frightening at times, but now we have a handsome little boy, Gabriel.<br /><br />I am also thankful for my husband, Will. Yesterday morning I woke up to a screaming newborn, a whiny toddler, a yapping dog and an overflowing toilet with no hubby in sight. I called his cell, but there was no answer (if you know Will, you know this is no surprise). Frustrated would have been an understatement. But life can come at you hard sometimes. Later that day we attended a Wake for our good friend, "Pepe" who recently lost his battle with cancer. He was 30 years old. He left behind his wife Gina, and three young children. My heart breaks for Gina, who is also a close friend and sorority sister. <br /><br />Life is too short to fret about the small stuff. Before you know it, your loved one could be gone. I love my husband for many reasons. He is honest, giving and smart. He kisses me every morning before he leaves. He's never moody. He tells me I look beautiful, even when I think I don't. He knows the words to James Brown, Jon Bon Jovi, Snoop Dogg and The Backyardigans. He always puts his family first, no matter what. But most of all, he's always been my biggest supporter. He's seen me at my worst and he still loves me. When we lost Willow he was scared and he never wanted to see me go through that kind of pain again, but he never gave up hope.<br /><br />By the way, my missing in action husband went grocery shopping at 7am that Sunday morning. He came home beaming with his booty. He was so proud that he had remembered my favorite cereal, bagels and hot cocoa mix. He's not perfect, but I would be lost without him.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgzDrygRhJF9alDIfxrl-M0UQpBLpsJ2w6MUxiblsiGbJQ3iUYx_1UtYDFe4GKiSWl4hm13TCT2SuSzl0HjSRbnVEsA3t9YjnBlSpL0_NQkqC72ZWGNi73VBVx3fGMJOtrnX9wde_5tjp0/s1600/gabriel2.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 150px; height: 200px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgzDrygRhJF9alDIfxrl-M0UQpBLpsJ2w6MUxiblsiGbJQ3iUYx_1UtYDFe4GKiSWl4hm13TCT2SuSzl0HjSRbnVEsA3t9YjnBlSpL0_NQkqC72ZWGNi73VBVx3fGMJOtrnX9wde_5tjp0/s200/gabriel2.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5539940166189497298" /></a>Mercyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07450337356011519119noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3523510486272144452.post-86192087562270246412010-11-15T11:31:00.000-08:002010-11-15T11:31:00.296-08:0011/15/09This is my post 3 days after I delivered Willow Rose. It is difficult to read because I can recall the amount of grief I felt as I tried to write this entry on that day... at that moment. I thought I would never be able to get past that pain, which I still feel but with a lot less sting. This was the beginning of my blogging experience, which proved to be an important outlet for the pain I felt.<br /><br />Willow Rose Wardlow was stillborn on November 12th, 2009 @ 7:03pm. She was 7.87 inches and only a mere 4 ounces. She is in God's arms, but she will always be in our hearts.<br /><br />The days since Tuesday, November 10th have been a blur. What was supposed to be a happy day turned tragic. Will met me at the Dr's office, CD-R in hand. We were ready to get pictures and video of our baby girl, but instead we heard the words... "Your baby's heart is no longer beating". I couldn't stop crying as Will tried to keep his strength and ask every question he could think of. We were told the baby had stopped growing around 17 weeks. We don't know for sure how long she had been dead. How could this happen?<br /><br />We delivered her 3 days later at St. Joseph Hospital. I held her tiny fingers in my hand and cradled her miniature body as I tried to memorize every feature. All the dreams I had for my baby vanished. Everything seemed surreal, like a bad dream. Dear God, please let me wake up.<br /><br />Days later, my milk came in. Another horrible reminder of our baby who was lost. We avoid saying the word "baby" so Olivia doesn't talk about being a big sister or the baby in mommy's tummy. We are just hoping she forgets. But we know we will never forget our baby girl, Willow.Mercyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07450337356011519119noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3523510486272144452.post-3007332277005096482010-11-12T11:04:00.000-08:002010-11-13T11:24:35.073-08:00365 Days<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg2fjAIio0Gu59Ynpu6vDNYRTVhAbNOn9yGf-Zargt19Whd9h-O3p502IwVFAgJTvHo2ETQJILlpssnZ2RnLl9HtXLmlkWReUDBGmsGDOS2aLMEaH3pJJt11H-jRZso3OrkdQ_70zlarrc/s1600/Willow-Tree-2.png"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 200px; height: 156px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg2fjAIio0Gu59Ynpu6vDNYRTVhAbNOn9yGf-Zargt19Whd9h-O3p502IwVFAgJTvHo2ETQJILlpssnZ2RnLl9HtXLmlkWReUDBGmsGDOS2aLMEaH3pJJt11H-jRZso3OrkdQ_70zlarrc/s200/Willow-Tree-2.png" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5539116000051047202" /></a><br />Wow! What a journey. I can't believe it's been 1 year since we said goodbye to Willow Rose. The events leading up to that day are still fresh in my mind. Even certain smells can trigger a memory of Willow. <br /><br />Losing a child is a terrible thing to happen to anyone. It becomes even more complicated if that child never lived outside the womb. I will always consider Willow my third child. I miss Willow so much, but I am thankful for Gabriel. I am also thankful Will and I had enough courage to try to conceive again after such a devastating loss.<br /><br />It hasn't been easy this week, but I have to admit Gabriel was a good distraction. A good friend from church stopped by on Willow's "Angelversary" and was so sweet to bring pink roses in memory of Willow. I displayed them next to the angel statute and her urn in our living room. It was a day filled with a plethora of emotions. I laughed, I reminisced and of course I cried.<br /><br />365 days after I lost Willow, I still wonder "Why?" What was the reason for this loss. I still don't know why she died, or how exactly I am supposed to do to honor her, but I will continue to try my best. For now, it's important to me that her memory lives on and I continue to tell Willow's story.Mercyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07450337356011519119noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3523510486272144452.post-87154236633341553852010-11-10T16:09:00.000-08:002010-11-10T16:13:48.917-08:00Goodbye PepeToday we were forced to say goodbye to a dear friend. You may recall a post regarding Jose "Pepe" Covarrubias. He was diagnosed with cancer in January of this year. Sadly he died today, leaving behind his wife Gina and 3 beautiful children. Please keep Pepe's family and friends in your prayers as they begin their journey without Pepe by their side.<br /><br />Rest in Peace Pepe. You will always be missed, but never forgotten. <br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjnRsJiWol8o9ommNImaOO-iNMxj6XRKoRfmMft5T6kAD6YFbtf4K5GRIrltShkaphdjyNMXc-xsaNECymDHF9oJOY3Ev28s4F49Ni2dntLlKspKZuhafts8_-oEMMyaD4vtT24O8zQ0NU/s1600/pepe.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 200px; height: 134px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjnRsJiWol8o9ommNImaOO-iNMxj6XRKoRfmMft5T6kAD6YFbtf4K5GRIrltShkaphdjyNMXc-xsaNECymDHF9oJOY3Ev28s4F49Ni2dntLlKspKZuhafts8_-oEMMyaD4vtT24O8zQ0NU/s200/pepe.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5538078497292955730" /></a>Mercyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07450337356011519119noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3523510486272144452.post-17969012056991687392010-11-07T10:28:00.000-08:002010-11-07T10:34:07.439-08:003 Weeks<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEilznSMnsrXQ19c4jaeNz8gSOdHHym6drmP_Bo0iGNwcBFmt9UOubob-heoXVEWRJkW4gAYaMKJKvdqjpOcDcQAFdiUIXn9ZFKWFUdYrDTkvH4zl1PEvfKVESxwIcwVlko6mrEIDU41MZE/s1600/gabriel.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEilznSMnsrXQ19c4jaeNz8gSOdHHym6drmP_Bo0iGNwcBFmt9UOubob-heoXVEWRJkW4gAYaMKJKvdqjpOcDcQAFdiUIXn9ZFKWFUdYrDTkvH4zl1PEvfKVESxwIcwVlko6mrEIDU41MZE/s320/gabriel.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5536877745772304754" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhFGgXoRC4YLj21Ix8EmCxkTRgVfVxMeRjgHe6m3_TvtRku3jdwr0q0io1lS6FcsfD22Abr8hJhnDjsq-WHo3H6S5SxhYsmaf3JTJR5sNxJeuBOprQVXJvR5g20varZVw8Otl21Y-jp2E8/s1600/gabriel1.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhFGgXoRC4YLj21Ix8EmCxkTRgVfVxMeRjgHe6m3_TvtRku3jdwr0q0io1lS6FcsfD22Abr8hJhnDjsq-WHo3H6S5SxhYsmaf3JTJR5sNxJeuBOprQVXJvR5g20varZVw8Otl21Y-jp2E8/s320/gabriel1.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5536877580433218994" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEir0Yx44Pts2dIEnViw8SiB0JaXMI-Q4Mm6bxeCjakJXSVs4LDsTjBjCOV7XLiPY36Co1bNhIb_puRZjTuTzyJl1qtuVw2-0ZGeEO5nIIMi6Qckr9yVKYHSv827GKH5UxvVgUjuzbqL-Ew/s1600/gabriel3.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 240px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEir0Yx44Pts2dIEnViw8SiB0JaXMI-Q4Mm6bxeCjakJXSVs4LDsTjBjCOV7XLiPY36Co1bNhIb_puRZjTuTzyJl1qtuVw2-0ZGeEO5nIIMi6Qckr9yVKYHSv827GKH5UxvVgUjuzbqL-Ew/s320/gabriel3.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5536877474353963154" /></a>Mercyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07450337356011519119noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3523510486272144452.post-75525655061440812842010-11-07T08:45:00.000-08:002010-11-07T09:05:19.517-08:00Breast vs BottleAs many of you know, Gabriel has been jaundiced since his birth. I'm happy to announce he is safely at a level 9 and his color is beautiful again. Dr's determined Gabriel had "Breast Milk Jaundice" or BMJ. Gabriel will still have to be tested (his poor heels!) but that may be his last blood draw.<br /><br />In order to stop his levels from rising I had to stop breast feeding for 2 weeks. Although I knew I would breastfeed prior to Gabriel's arrival I hate it. I complain all the time. Of course "Breast is Best" but it doesn't mean it's easiest. For something that is available whenever you need it, it does require a lot of accessories:<br /><br />Boppy Pillow $35<br />Nursing Wrap $30<br />Breast Pump $300<br />Nursing Bras $20-50 (depending on brand/ quality)<br />Nursing Pads $10/60... which don't last very long)<br />Milk Storage Bags $10-15<br /><br />However, formula does cost $20-30 can which last about 1 week. But there are other drawbacks to breastfeeding. I'm not so comfortable whipping out my breast in public and feeding my baby. I know I have rights, I choose not to exercise those rights. And after 4 pregnancies, the public should probably thank me. In all honesty, I'm more concerned about showing my belly fat than my nipple! Therefore, trips to the mall require a lot of pre-planning. <br /><br />Nursing also requires special clothing and bras. Think easy access. You won't see me in a dress for awhile.<br /><br />Another drawback is my husband doesn't have milk filled utters! Which means I am responsible for all the feedings, unless I have expressed milk saved for him.<br /><br />There is also a lot of pain involved. Most women give up on breastfeeding within the first few weeks because of sore, cracked or bleeding nipples. Once you get passed the initial, torturous weeks it does get better. <br /><br />And don't even get me started about yellow, mustard-seedy, explosive poops, less sleep (breast milk is less filling) and leaky nipples... wet t-shirt contest here I come!<br /><br />But then again, "Breast is best"... right?Mercyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07450337356011519119noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3523510486272144452.post-32263891005586728122010-11-01T12:38:00.000-07:002010-11-01T12:55:20.115-07:00Ups and DownsWe've been on an emotional roller coaster since Gabriel has come home from the hospital. Gabriel has jaundice, which happens when the baby's liver isn't mature enough to get rid of bilirubin in the bloodstream. His skin and eyes have a yellow tint. Initially his bilirubin levels were normal, but in the first few days home from the hospital his levels began to increase. Within a week his levels reached 20 (25 is considered "Danger Zone" and can cause deafness and brain damage). The Drs were perplexed as to why his levels kept going up. Initially I had to cease breastfeeding and introduce him to formula only. I had planned to exclusively breastfeed Gabriel so this was difficult, but I would do whatever it takes to help him. But then he had to be put on a bili-blanket around the clock. This coupled with not being able to breastfeed became difficult. I couldn't hold Gabriel as much as I wanted and I was worried our bond will be affected.<br /><br />Today, I am happy to report Gabriel's levels are back down to a 14, which means bye-bye bili-blanket! No more humming and glowing! My baby boy still has to go back to the Dr on Wednesday and Friday for, at least, 2 more heel pokes. But I may be able to reintroduce breast milk by Wednesday. I know we still have a struggle ahead of us, since I haven't breastfed in a week. I have been pumping, but not as often as I would have liked.Mercyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07450337356011519119noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3523510486272144452.post-4387634541173594562010-10-25T09:58:00.000-07:002010-10-25T10:04:30.508-07:00DefinitionI have been struggling lately with the description of my blog. Since I am officially no longer trying to conceive another child should I omit the part about infertility? Does Willow's loss no longer seem relevant because I was able to conceive another baby? Of course, I would disagree! However, I have a lot of visitors from the Soulcysters.com website, who are struggling with PCOS and infertility. I also have visitors from the Facesofloss.com site that have lost a child and are searching for support, a story similar to theirs. So how should I describe my website to let everyone know they are welcome to read about my struggles? They may not be current roadblocks in my quest to conceive, but they are struggles that will be with me always and have defined me.Mercyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07450337356011519119noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3523510486272144452.post-73424336816972371832010-10-19T12:16:00.000-07:002010-10-19T12:24:47.709-07:00He is Here!Sorry I'm a little late with the announcement, but you can imagine how chaotic our lives have been since the arrival of our beautiful baby boy. I wanted to quickly give you an update on his stats and post a couple of pictures. I will post his birth story later.<br /><br />Gabriel Maximilian Wardlow<br />Born 10/15/10 at 12:51 pm<br />7lbs 8oz, 19 inches<br />10 perfect fingers and toes, a head full of shiny black hair and a cute button nose!<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi0q4aBK47Z5QQK5GbpF9ea8Tdj41f-GQXEcbLm8zU6yM6dpDLYixB6lj2bCzAEMrxqM2Jpv087M_Y71fnCeylfbj-y_4ecUI43AmipYmhs6_EDFn4P9l2cIC80k07uwO9DSKpSKvHLHL8/s1600/baby+061.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi0q4aBK47Z5QQK5GbpF9ea8Tdj41f-GQXEcbLm8zU6yM6dpDLYixB6lj2bCzAEMrxqM2Jpv087M_Y71fnCeylfbj-y_4ecUI43AmipYmhs6_EDFn4P9l2cIC80k07uwO9DSKpSKvHLHL8/s320/baby+061.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5529839754221619858" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEghGLDvIpspDdoBqII74TqzJ4-WNhxWHVGzbfohxaozNhRGcPVM5AqgftlVpTEUQLtg6eawv4oj7xLeU3eqQGQPjKmqHFayjjY_oEvWlY99nIZUjqRlsskhI1WZjbnhFajNyOvUjq_n5Z8/s1600/baby+067.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEghGLDvIpspDdoBqII74TqzJ4-WNhxWHVGzbfohxaozNhRGcPVM5AqgftlVpTEUQLtg6eawv4oj7xLeU3eqQGQPjKmqHFayjjY_oEvWlY99nIZUjqRlsskhI1WZjbnhFajNyOvUjq_n5Z8/s320/baby+067.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5529839503330214818" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj5BIWh8AlZu1xapVP8OYNUSDXhtUpiZFsHiwekc-uY1uPILRVc9VMj6twvKuCp7XX2D5ymvCV3sxU-Dy9wjeUYO1lSkYQHhdeNF_Jg3yBrXlapS0CcCwesvjourfqWOFqWbukmJX70o2Y/s1600/baby+008.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj5BIWh8AlZu1xapVP8OYNUSDXhtUpiZFsHiwekc-uY1uPILRVc9VMj6twvKuCp7XX2D5ymvCV3sxU-Dy9wjeUYO1lSkYQHhdeNF_Jg3yBrXlapS0CcCwesvjourfqWOFqWbukmJX70o2Y/s320/baby+008.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5529839231833522866" /></a>Mercyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07450337356011519119noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3523510486272144452.post-64787080450259893892010-10-12T15:58:00.000-07:002010-10-12T16:07:11.134-07:0010 Days (or at least 3)On October 15th, 2010 (which is also Baby Loss Awareness Day) I will officially be 39 weeks. This means that my Dr can induce labor. So we are hereby requested to report to the hospital by 8am this Friday. I'm feeling a mixed bag of emotions. I'm obviously nervous about the labor and delivery, regardless if this is my 4th delivery. I also HATE needles, especially IVs so I've never had an epidural. But I am anxious to hear, see, smell and touch my baby boy.<br /><br />I'm also worried that I will be flooded with emotions and memories from my last hospital stay with Willow. I'm trying to stay positive and be strong. Although I will be bringing a new life into this world, I will be saying a prayer for Willow and all the other parents who have lost a child. I hope you will do the same thing.Mercyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07450337356011519119noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3523510486272144452.post-80539808782419904182010-10-11T18:06:00.000-07:002010-10-11T18:10:42.260-07:0011 DaysWent to work today and surprised my coworkers. But if I hear "You're still heeeere!" one more time, I swear I might lose it.Mercyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07450337356011519119noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3523510486272144452.post-43968707589863440242010-10-10T11:37:00.000-07:002010-10-10T11:38:46.249-07:0012 Days... Eviction Notice ServedDear Baby, You are hereby notified, that your tenancy is hereby terminated as of October 10, 2010. You are hereby requested to quit, vacate, and deliver therefore to the undersigned on or before October 10, 2010.<br /><br />This notice to vacate is due to your following breach of tenancy:<br /><br />...Damage beyond normal wear and tear to property.Mercyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07450337356011519119noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3523510486272144452.post-61709416212660724272010-10-09T21:15:00.000-07:002010-10-10T09:19:08.407-07:0013 DaysTomorrow is 10/10/10. Will have to try some things to induce labor naturally, although I really don't believe in that. I strongly feel the baby will come when he is ready. Despite my desire to be on the local news for delivering a baby on 10/10/10!Mercyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07450337356011519119noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3523510486272144452.post-88902468683066280472010-10-08T16:06:00.000-07:002010-10-08T16:12:48.079-07:0014 DaysI can't believe I'm at the 2 week mark. I never expected that I would deliver Baby Boy more than 1 week before my due date, but knowing that I am 4cm dilated has changed my mind (and tested my patience). So as I wait for some strong, steady contractions or spring a leak I have to keep busy. But I'm sick of cleaning my house, folding baby clothes and watching boring t.v. I need some ideas on how to keep my mind off of delivering a baby. <br /><br />... And we have to finalize Baby Boy's legal name!Mercyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07450337356011519119noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3523510486272144452.post-15253526459613796722010-10-07T17:25:00.000-07:002010-10-07T17:29:45.522-07:0015 DaysI'm pretty proud of myself for blogging daily, but I have no news to report. Still no contractions. Tonight I went for a walk with Olivia and we'll see if that starts anything. It's probably best if I don't start labor for a couple of days since my entire family is sick. Both kids went to the Dr today for what I thought was a bad cough. However, both were diagnosed with an ear infection. What do I know? Hubby is ill too and can't have his flu shot for another couple of weeks. I have this sneaking suspicion that now that I don't want to go into labor, it's inevitable.Mercyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07450337356011519119noreply@blogger.com0