March 11, 2009

As you can probably tell by the deterioration of my handwriting yesterday, either the medication or the exhaustion kicked in.  To continue:

After you were born, Daddy went over to the exam table with you and you were 22 inches long, 8 lbs. 1 oz and had a 1 minute Apgar score of 8 and a 5 minute score of 9.  Essentially, you were perfect.

As they stitched Mommy back up, Daddy went with you to the nursery where they did hearing tests and blood tests and treated your eyes, and where Daddy got to give you your first bath!

After all that, I met up with you and Daddy in our room.  We were all pretty exhausted by this time -- around 2:00 AM, but Daddy called BaBa and Mommy called Grandma.  They were both so excited to meet you!

Yesterday was a busy first day for you.  They took you to the nursery where you met your pediatrician, plus you and I spent a good part of the day working on breastfeeding.  Despite the learning curve, you've had plenty of wet and dirty diapers, which means that you are getting plenty of nutrients and doing great.

You also had lots of visitors yesterday.  Uncle Chris and Aunt Chrissy brought Carter, Cole, Cade and Camden in the afternoon.  Then Chad & Corrisa brought you a stuffed Marline.  They agreed that you are perfect (luckily they missed your little crying bout in the early afternoon).  Not long after they left, Paul & Sientay arrived with Ben and Eva and chicken sandwiches from Zaxby's.  Then a bit later, Sam showed up and finally, Bob & Donna. 

Everyone was charmed by you and thrilled to meet you, and Daddy and I are so proud to introduce you to everyone.  We are having so much fun!

My boys

So good to finally see you!

Uncle Chris

Aunt Chrissy & Cole

Chad & Corrisa

The Cahoons

March 10, 2009

Well, you decided to make your appearance among quite a bit of drama last night, my little Charlie!

You and I did an amazing job of dialating and effacing.  We were 3 cm by lunch, 6 by mid-afternoon and 8 by early evening -- then it all stopeed.  We stuck at 8 cm until 9:30 that night, and during this time your heartrate would drop down to the 50s and 60s every few contractions.  This was really scary and frustrating for me and Daddy.

Dr. McClusker told us that while we had all done our best, it was time to opt for a c-section.  I was disappointed because I really thought that if we just waited a while longer, maybe we could make it happen naturally -- but Daddy and I agreed that a c-section was the best choice for you.

It didn't take long at all for them to prep me for surgery and before I knew it I was extremely medicated, draped and waiting.  The next thing I knew, Dr. McClusker said, "this baby has linebacker shoulders," and she had a hard time squeezing them through the incision.  Right then I finally admitted to myself how much I wanted you to be a boy -- especially if you have extremely broad shoulders.  And you are!  My perfect little Charles Patrick!

March 9, 2009

We all woke up around 4 AM because Otis was getting sick.  Without getting too technical, I had reason to believe my water broke. 

I laid with Otis for about an hour -- we think he got into something outside yesterday -- and around 5:00 I called the doctor.  She suggested that we go ahead and come in to get checked out, so Daddy and I here, to the hospital, around 6:15 or so, and based on preliminary tests my water has broken, so right now we're just waiting to see what happens next.

Looks like we should meet you face to face in the next day or so.

March 8, 2009

Boy Names

• Edward Patrick (Teddy)
• Henry Patrick
• Daniel Patrick
• Brandon Patrick
• Rhys Patrick
• Tate Patrick
• Quinlon Patrick (Quinn)
• Charles Patrick**

Girl Names

• Ansley Evelyn**
• Annie Evelyn
• Andrea Evelyn
• Courtney Ann
• Courtney Pauline

March 6, 2009

No changes at our doctor's appointment today.  It looks like we have at least a few days left.

That's actually a good thing, because Otis hurt his neck Wednesday and can't turn his head to the right.  He's in an awful lot of pain, but should be feeling better soon according to the vet.  It will be easier on all of us if the Bug is 100% when you arrive.  Shouldn't be long...

March 3, 2009

Two weeks to go!  Everyone keeps telling us that you could come at any time, but I really feel like we have some time left.  It just seems like I would feel different if labor were imminent, but I guess you never know.  We're definitely hoping you come by the 17th or 18th, though -- otherwise BaBa and PaPa wont' get to see much of you before they have to go home. 

Everything will happen when it should though -- it's just so strange knowing that our life is going to change completely very soon, but not knowing when...

February 27, 2009

Last night was our breastfeeding class.  It's amazing how much better it is for you than formula -- not that formula is bad.  Breastfeeding is just so much better. 

It is definitely my plan to breastfeed, but from everything I've learned we might have a bit of a learning curve.  We'll figure it out, though.

Today Daddy is meeting us at our weekly doctor's appointment then we're taking Otis to the beach.  Daddy had to work late Wednesday evening, so he gets the whole afternoon off. 

Then tomorrow is our birthing class.  I hope it's as good as last night's class.  We definitely have a lot to learn, but Daddy and I are enjoying it and really looking forward to your arrival -- should be within the next 2 to 2 1/2 weeks!

Kate's Mom, Mommy, Miss Amanda & Lakely's Mom

at Amanda's Wedding Shower

February 11, 2009

Tonight Daddy and I have our CPR/First Aid class.  Hopefully these are skills we'll never need, but we want to be sure to be prepared.

It's hard to believe how close we're getting.  I've been wondering so much about you.  I can't wait to get to know you.  What will make you laugh?  What will be your favorite toy? What kind of foods will you like/dislike?  Will you like to swim?  Will you like to read? Who will be your best friend?  What will you want to be when you grow up?  Will you be an early bird or a night owl?  Will you be good at math?  Will you be shy or outgoing?

Obviously it will take years to learn all these things about you -- and many of the answers will change over time.  But still, I can't wait to meet you and start getting to know you.  Soon...

February 7, 2009

We had the hospital tour two days ago.   It seems very nice and comfortable.  You will spend the first 48 hours of your life at Summerville Medical Center then come home with Mommy and Daddy.

This next week we have our CPR class on Wednesday evening, and Daddy is going to try to get your toybox finished before he leaves for Daytona.  Then next weekend is your SC Shower -- you will really be here before we know it.  It's so hard to believe!

34 weeks

My two babies

January 30, 2009

I had your 33 week appointment today.  My blood pressure is fine and your heart rate is in the 150s.  I've gained 21 pounds (that the doctor knows about -- I actually gained about 5 before my first appointment) and we don't have any swelling or other issues.  My back hurts sometimes, but Amy, the PRN, said that was perfectly normal, so we're doing great! 

Amy also said that you're currently positioned head down, so the movements I feel up high are your kicks and the ones I feel down low are your punches.  You are moving a lot lately, which is fun.  I can pretty much count on you moving after I eat.  Everything is going perfectly and in just 6 to 7 weeks you'll be here!

January 27, 2009

I just reread what I wrote back on July 26, almost exactly 6 months ago.  It seems like so long ago -- so much has changed.

You're definitely real to us now.  My belly is enormous, and you're a very active baby in there.  Plus, the nursery is 90% complete, we're preparing for our second shower in less than 3 weeks, and I've started documenting my job and plans for while I'm on leave.  It's amazing to think that you will be here in 7 weeks or less.

I think it's really getting real for Daddy, too.  We're definitely both excited, but we're starting to feel the pressure of getting everything done and being ready.  My mobility and energy levels are decreasing, too, which is a challenge.  I just need to figure out exactly what and how much I can do.  Lately I've been overdoing it for a few days and then completely exhausted for a day or two.  I think Daddy and I just need to accept the fact that I'm going to have to slow down and forgo some social commitments over the next few weeks.  So much change!  So much to learn and so much to look forward to!

January 23, 2009

It's been a very busy week.  We spent most of last weekend running errands, but we accomplished a lot.  We stocked up on things for you and some clothes for Daddy.  Then on Monday we found shelves and a toybox for your room.  Daddy's going to wait to paint or stain them until we know if you are a boy or a girl.  My gut instinct is that you are a girl.  Daddy feels like you are a boy.  We'll know for sure in just about 7 weeks.

On Tuesday our refrigerator broke, so we spent much of Wednesday finding a good deal on a new one.  It will be delivered tomorrow.  It really will be nice to have more room once you start eating solid foods, and I'm sure we'll be happy to have some of these large purchases out of the way before you get here.

Yesterday was Daddy's 32nd birthday!  We can't believe that you'll be almost a year old when he turns 33.  I met him and his friends for lunch, then Daddy and I had a very nice dinner just the two of us.  We're going to do his birthday cake this weekend with some neighbors -- but I'm not sure what Daddy will wish for.  With you coming so soon, it seems that all of our wishes have already come true.

January 16, 2009

Time is alternately going too fast and too slow.  In some ways I can't believe it's mid-January and you are due 2 months from tomorrow -- though I still think you'll be here on the 12th or 13th.  In other ways 2 months seems like far too long to wait.

Tonight Daddy and I are going to Babies R Us to buy your carseat and stroller and stock up on diapers and wipes.  They're having a sale.  I guess it's really a sign of our new priorities that we're going to spend a Friday night shopping for diapers.  :o)

I have to admit that I'm starting to get nervous as the time gets nearer.  Everyone tells us that the first few weeks are overwhelming.  Daddy and I will be exhausted. 

I need to start reading all my books about you once you're here.  You'll find that I am always much more confident about any decision/situation if I've done research.  Daddy laughs at me, but he's really the same way.  We will definitely do our best and I'm sure we'll eventually get the hang of it -- hopefully before you go to college...

34 weeks

January 4, 2009

We survived the Christmas trip to Kansas City.  Trips home are usually hectic, but lots of fun. 

This year's trip had more than its fair share of hectic -- Daddy and BaBa were both sick much of the week, Daddy was supposed to be working on the computers at the plant, and I scheduled lunches, breakfasts, coffes, etc with lots of friends.  It all worked out, but it was a relief to get hom on Monday.

Unfortunately, I seem to have come down with Daddy's cold/flu, but at least it waited until the weekend.  I've done very little yesterday and today, but hope to be back to myself tomorrow for work.

There really isn't much else going on.  We have your next doctor's appointment on Thursday.  I should get the results of the glucose test (which I'm sure went fine), but otherwise it should be pretty standard.

Aunt Chrissy is starting to plan your Charleston shower.  It should be fun -- primarily neighbors.  Otherwise we're just relaxing and waiting for you to get here -- just 2 1/2 months to go!

December 21, 2008

Yesterday was your baby shower -- the first of many celebrations in your honor.  I hope you are better with these types of events than I am.  Don't get me wrong, I had a wonderful time and feel very blessed to have so many people care, but I always feel very awkward as the center of attention.  In general, I'm more comfortable at events focused on someone other than me.  You should grow up with a lot more opportunities to get used to being the guest of honor, though, so hopefully you'll be more at ease.

Despite my nerves, the shower was wonderful.  BaBa, Nanie and Aunt Shery hosted it and some of my best friends (Emily), Daddy's distant relatives (Patty, Connie, the Aunts) and even my Aunt Jan, Mindy and Melanie were able to come.

We had a delicious brunch and everyone gave us gifts to help us prepare for you.  Everyone is excited to meet you and have you in the family.  When we travel back to Kansas City you are going to be surrounded by so many friends and relatives.  I hope you love it!

December 14, 2008

We're on your first trip to Canada.  We met Grandma up here two days ago, and over the past 48 hours Daddy has met and started to get to know all of Mommy's aunts, uncles and cousins on Grandma's side.

We came up here for your Great-grandma's memorial service which was yesterday.  Originally we planned to come primarily for moral support for Grandma, but it has really turned into a wonderful trip for Daddy and Mommy.  It's been about negative 20 to 30 degrees Celsius while we've been here, but that hasn't done anything to dampen anyone's spirits.

When I was a kid we didn't make it up here very often.  In fact, this is only my fourth trip up in my life, and my last trip was 13 1/2 years ago, when your Great-grandpa passed away.  So, in fact, I'm getting the chance to meet and get to know lots of new people, too.  Since that last trip, all of my cousins have fallen in love and most have gotten married and had kids of their own.  Yesterday at the service, there were ten kids under the age of 6 or so!  It was so much fun.

I'm hopeful that Daddy and I will be able to prioritze trips up here very 2 to 3 years (most likely in the summer) so you can meet and know this part of your family.  They will remind you a lot of Daddy's side of the family with their closeness and love of fun.  The tentative goal is to come back in the summer of 2010 for a big family reunion.  You'll be less than 18 months, but maybe we'll make it back when you're 4 or so, and 7 and so on... There is no doubt in my mind that you would love it, so we'll see what we can do.

November 25, 2008

Today was one of the scariest days of my life.  This morning your Daddy had his thyroid removed, because it was having to work too hard to produce the hormones it produces.  The surgery went perfectly and he is resting well, but it was scary knowing he was in there.

BaBa, Aunt Ashley and I are spending the day here at the hospital.  Right now Daddy is pretty medicated and resting comfortably.  I just hope the comfort level stays pretty high even as the medication wears off.  He gets to go home tomorrow, and then we both have the rest of the week off for him to recover. 

One of the ver first things he did when he wok up was reach for me and tap you in my belly.

November 11, 2008

We had your 22 week appointment yesterday.  It is always so much fun to hear your heartbeat.  yesterday it was 156 and very strong.  Grandma is in town, so she was able to come along and hear it too. 

She is here because your cousin, Camden, was born on Friday.  You and he will be very close in age which should be a lot of fun.

Grandpa gets in tomorrow night.  Right now they live in Texas, but they hope to move this direction sometime in the next few years.

My work travel has slowed way down compared to the last few weeks, but we'll be going to Canada in December and possibly North Carolina.  Then we get to go to Kansas City for Christmas and have your first baby shower. 

Your aunts Tara & Erin, great-aunt Shery and Nanie are throwing it for you -- just the first of many, many celebrations in your honor.  You'll soon learn that your mommy loves birthdays and holidays.  I just love to celebrate the blessings in our lives.

October 29, 2008

We are on your first trip to Florida.  It's just the two of us though, since it's a business trip.  Last week we were in PA & NJ and next week we spend two days in Columbia and a night in Greenwood.  This should be the end of our business travel, though.

Daddy is going to KC the weekend of the 6th and we are going up to Calgary on December 12 -- but that should be it.  Thank goodness.

The three of us will all go to KC for Christmas, and then Daddy is hoping to go to Daytona in February...but just for a long weekend.  After that trip, we'll just settle in and wait for you to arrive!

Next Wednesday Grandma is coming to Charleston for your new cousin's birth.  She'll be in town for ten days, and Grandpa will arrive a week later and stay for the weekend.  They are extremely excited to meet you.

Daddy is hoping to get your nursery painted and crib put together before they arrive.  It's all so exciting, but don't worry, I promise life will slow way down when you are born to give you time to get acclimated to us and us time to enjoy you and get to know you.  As of yesterday you are 20 weeks -- we're half way there!!!

20 weeks

Love it!

We're ready!

October 16, 2008

Last night a contractor who was doing door-to-door marketing in Bedford, PA for me passed away.  His wife called to tell me this morning.  It was shocking.

Bill had called me on Tuesday and told me he was going to the hospital for 4 to 5 days, but that he would be back next week.  In fact, I was supposed to meet him in person for the first time next Thursday when I'm in Pennsylvania.  We've been working together for about 3 months but had never met in person.

Life is truly a wonderful blessing, but it's hard, sometimes very hard.  I spent the rest of the morning calling and emailing people to let them know Bill is gone.  I hope that's something you don't have to do very often.  It's terribly hard to be the one to break the news that will break someone's heart.

I believe that the important thing is to remember that despite the fact that life isn't fair, that hearts break and some questions are never satisfactorily answered, everything does happen according to God's plan.  And His plan is perfect.  We may not understand it and at times we may hate it, but it is perfect.  If you hold onto that you can survive anything -- even breaking people's hearts.