Thursday, December 27, 2007

We Know our Baby's Birthdate

Well it was an early morning. I woke up around 4:15 and could not fall back asleep. I finally got out of bed at 5:00, had breakfast & got ready for the hospital. Pat and I arrived at admissions at 7:00 AM. The lady said, "so you're here for your induction, right?" I was like huh?! No, that would be a version. She changed the error in the computer and we proceeded to the Birthing Floor. I got into the wonderful hospital gown, got weighed and hooked up to the baby heart rate monitor and contraction monitor (version can trigger them). My ob/gyn did the ultrasound to confirm her position. We were hopeful baby turned on her own but that she did not. Poor little girl has her head up by her feet yet. Doc said she's in a good position for the version but that there isn't much amniotic fluid left -- just pockets of it. He said typically the odds of a version being successful are 50/50. However, given the small amount of fluid and that this is my first pregnancy he said my odds of it working were 1 in 3. Thus, we decided not to proceed with the version and do a scheduled c-section.
Last week my doc told me via phone we would wait with the c-section if necessary until closer to the due date. This morning he said, "How does early next week sound? Would you like a New Year's baby?" He had his nurse check the schedule/staffing and called me late morning with the date. The schedule is full for 12.31.07 (I wonder why...) and they do not allow anything to be scheduled on New Year's Day due to staffing. Our baby's birthdate will be 01.02.08 unless God decides otherwise. If I go into labor before the scheduled time, my ob will be called and we'll do the c-section then. If baby flips on her own by the morning of scheduled c-section, I will be induced rather than proceeding with a c-section. I would rather have a c-section than be induced so I'm hopeful that all goes well!

We're really excited to meet her!!

Thursday, December 20, 2007

Version is Scheduled but...

My doctor's office has scheduled a version for next Thursday, 12.27.07 at the hospital. I've been told the procedure is very uncomfortable for moms and it does not always work. They basically smear a bunch of goo on my belly and try to get baby to get turned around. They only proceed if baby's knees are not crossed and the cord is not around its head. The success rate is about 50% and is higher for non first-time pregnancies b/c the uterus is more apt to be manipulated, etc. There really are not any risks to the baby but there is a risk to injuring the placenta. Thus, they monitor mom afterwards for 1/2 hour to make sure all is well regardless of whether or not the version was successful. If we choose not to try the version, we are looking at a scheduled c-section just prior to my due date (1.11). I have never been "set" on having to have our baby vaginally or via c-section. I have nothing to prove. Our baby's health is of utmost importance; how she arrives into this world is trivial. Patrick & I have been discussing our options. I'm nervous that the version could injure the placenta & thus put our baby in harm's way; I'm nervous about complications & recovery with a c-section. If you have ever been in the same situation, please e-mail or call with any advice tonight. Patrick & I are to discuss it tonight and make a decision tomorrow. Please pray that we make the right decision and all goes well.

Wednesday, December 19, 2007

Baby is Flexible Like Mommy!

I love my midwife! Last week she asked me when my next appointment was. I told her Dec. 31st and she requested that I come in today, as it is good to be monitored weekly this close to the end of your pregnancy. My weight & bp is good and I'm measuring about the same I was last week. She's estimating baby to be 5 1/2 - 6 lbs and figures that she'll be around 7 lbs at birth but that's obviously a rough estimate -- I was over 9 lbs at birth! Last week we "placed" the feet, butt, back & head. This week she wasn't convinced that the head was down anymore so she did a pelvic exam. I am not dilating yet and she couldn't feel the head/skull in my lower abdomen. Thus, she ordered and came with me to an ultrasound to verify. The u/s showed what she suspected...baby is frank breech! Her feet are up over her head and she's facing my back. I guess we got our wish that baby inherits mommy's flexibility. : ) That would also explain why it feels like her feet are going to poke out of my right side constantly. My midwife is going to consult with my ob to see if he recommends a version (outside manipulation to get the baby turned around), scheduled C-section or wait and see. Baby could possibly turn on her own and life would be good. If not, we may need to do a scheduled c-section. I am just very grateful that we know she's in this position in case I do go into labor before a decision is made. I will keep you all posted...
Other updates -- Tomorrow night we have our last birthing class. Our crib finally came in Dec. 8th and we're still waiting for the changing table.
We're very excited for Christmas. We'll be celebrating with Patrick's family this weekend and my family on Christmas Eve & Day. Hope everyone is doing well and enjoying the spirit of Christmas!

Wednesday, December 12, 2007

No Complaints at Nearly 36 Weeks!

I had an appointment with my Nurse Midwife today. My bp and weight are good and I am measuring a bit small but there is no concern. Baby is continuing to do well. Her heart beat was in the 140s and we determined where her feet, butt, back & head were positioned...such fun! She's facing my spine which is good -- should prevent back labor if she stays in that position. My midwife also said that there is no reason why I have to take my belly button ring out. I am sure many of you are cringing, but I love my ring and I've had it for 10 years! My belly button hasn't "popped" and it doesn't bother me so she said there was no reason that I had to take it out. I'm sure I just jinxed myself... I have another appointment with my midwife next Wed. and then I see my OB again on Dec. 31st. I will be 36 weeks Friday; one more week until it's "safe" for baby to arrive.
Congratulations to Kristi Jo & Nick on the healthy arrival of their son William -- I saw him tonight and he is absolutely adorable. Congratulations to Lisa & Dan on the healthy arrival of their daughter Gretchen -- a future dancer, right Lis?!

Sunday, December 2, 2007

8 Months Preggers!


Here I am at 8 months pregnant! Patrick & I have attended two of five nights of our birthing classes thus far. We were pleasantly surprised to find a familiar face in the class: Shannon Essler Petty and her husband Richard. Shannon's brother Derek and I were classmates and Shannon used to date one of Patrick's good friends in high school. Our dads are pretty good sports -- having had to "endure" wearing a sling filled with 30 lbs of bean bags, learning how to ease our back labor if applicable, and other relaxation techniques for us moms. I must say Pat has been especially helpful lately. I must have outdid myself working in the house during yesterday's snow storm as my calves & lower back hurt. Patrick very willingly massaged my calves and promised a back massage this evening. Yea! He got to ride our snowmobile this afternoon and since I cannot venture out on it until after baby arrives, I don't feel guilty asking for and enjoying his pampering. According to my references, baby weighs ~5 lbs and is 18-19 inches long. I feel bad as I haven't regularly exercised for a month. It's hard to motivate myself when it's cold outside. I really should at least stretch to make recovery easier on myself. Hope everyone is enjoying the snow as much as I am!!

Monday, November 19, 2007

Baby Has Been to MN, SD, NE, CO, UT & AZ in 4 Days











Patrick and I have been on a road trip with my sister and brother-in-law that began Friday night. We were lucky enough to visit our friends Kelly & Sarah in Dillon, CO Saturday. It was fun to visit and talk pregnancy with them, as they are expecting their first child May 9th! Thanks again for the hospitality & great time, K & S!!
Today we visited Zion National Park, Lees Ferry & Grand Canyon. Tomorrow we are going to explore Sedona and then meet up with my parents, brother Merle & his girlfriend Kathy in Phoenix. Baby must be growing b/c my stomach hurts really bad from stretching so much the last few days. Less than 8 weeks to go...very excited. Enjoy a few pictures from our trip thus far!




Tuesday, November 6, 2007

Thank you oh dear little baby Jesus by Patrick

I want to take this moment to thank society for not forcing me to take part in the formal annointing of the womb known as "baby showers"......That being said I regretfully would like to announce my official resignation from "manhood". Apparently at some point in the recent past I agreed to attending a "couples shower" . I can only assume that I was asked during the middle of aVikings game or an important episode of Family Guy or Seinfeld. I do not tell you this as an excuse but as a warning to the complete male population. We have always known that "they" like to "strike" during these most vulnerable times and for that reason I should have been more cautious. I only have myself to blame and I make a promise to the rest of the male race that I will do my best to assure that an attrocity like this will never happen again.

In case you have not been able to grasp the magnitude of this enormous collapse in concentration & judgement on my part please note the following activities that I am apparently in store for this weekend.
- design a "onesie"??
- guess how many diapers are located in a basket?????
- guess how "round" my wife is by cutting a string?????????????????
- Gossip about [Insert name of some woman that works with one of my wife's friends]....ex:"can you believe what a bitch[Insert same name] is?"!!!!

Consider yourselves warned!!!

One more thing...I would like to point out that Brenda spends a lot of time working on this site(I personally witnessed her try to get the pics below in the right order for about 10 minutes and heard no less than 6 "curse" words, most of which seemed to be directed at me which didn't seem to be very nice, so make sure you post comments on the site so I know that my tears and dejected soul aren't all for not).

A Human is Growing Inside of Me

Our little girl is continuously exploring her surroundings. I often find myself laughing at her acrobatic moves. It still amazes me that there is a human growing inside of me! Lately I've been finding myself staring at my stomach and trying to guess what body part I see push out and move across my stomach. It's such an incredible feeling and I know I'll miss it once she arrives. I am becoming more and more excited to meet our daughter and see what traits she has. Will she have the same mole me, my mom and sister all have? Will she be a blondie or brunette? Will she have her daddy's nose or mommy's? Will she have her daddy's natural ability to tease, her mommy's organizational skills...so much to look forward to.

My sister and sister-in-law Jen (pictured above) gave me a baby shower this past weekend. Thanks again sisters for throwing me such a wonderful baby shower and thank you to everyone for coming! I had a wonderful time seeing everyone and sharing my excitement with you! Here is a picture of a blanket soon-to-be grandma Felling made for her granddaughter. It is so soft and I am excited to snuggle in it with baby!
Here I am at 7 months pregnant with the excited grandmothers-to-be.

Thursday, October 18, 2007

Third Trimester!!

I am now in my third trimester! 12 weeks until my due date comes and goes. : ) Yesterday I had my glucose screening for gestational diabetes and a check-up with the NP. My lab results were in by the afternoon and both my hemoglobin & glucose are normal. I am 28 weeks tomorrow and I was measuring at 27 so I'm right on track. Baby's heartbeat was a strong 143 and she continues to bring a smile to my face with every kick, turn & move. Last week Patrick and I were lying in bed watching tv. Something from Seinfeld cracked me up and I could not stop laughing. Pat then pointed out how funny my stomach looks when I laugh, which contributed to another laugh attack. I'm sure baby was wondering what the heck was going on as she was moving like crazy. Today is our Fourth Anniversary! We had a dual celebration with Pat's parents over dinner, as it is Harold's 57th birthday as well!

Monday, October 8, 2007

Baby Shower with Friends




On Saturday my friends threw me a baby shower. It means so much to me that they were able to celebrate this very special time in my life with me. I am extremely blessed to have such wonderful friends! I had so much fun seeing everyone and am sharing a few photos from that day. Thanks again Stacy, Penny, Kristi & Toots for hosting!

Sunday, September 30, 2007

Weekend Getaway

Happy First Anniversary Paul & Bonnie!! To celebrate my sister and brother-in-law's anniversary, Pat & I along with Paul's best friend and his wife went to Duluth for the weekend. We stayed at a great place on the shores of Lake Superior and despite the occasional downpours enjoyed our weekend away. I had another ob appt last Monday. Baby's heartbeat was 153 and the midwife said I am progressing well. Baby is moving like crazy. It's fun to watch her move around as my stomach pokes in every direction. She's definitely a night owl like me! Less than 15 weeks to our due date and I'm getting anxious to decorate the nursery. Hopefully our crib comes in soon!

Tuesday, September 18, 2007

Expanding Buddha-Belly

The "BUDDHA-BELLY" is growing. It has really popped a presence the last couple weeks. Here are two pictures of said exhibit. Exhibit A (bottom) was taken 9.6.07 (21.6 weeks) and Exhibit B (top) was taken 9.18.07 (23.4 weeks). Can you notice the difference from my last buddha-belly posting?! As you can see, my favorite sweats still fit comfortably -- yea!
Baby is moving, kicking and turning quite a bit. I love feeling her move! I'm pretty sure I felt her hiccupping for the first time Saturday night, 9.15.07 -- that was pretty cool. This Friday I will be 24 weeks pregnant! 16 weeks to go...cross my fingers not much more than that. : )

Tuesday, September 4, 2007

It's a Girl!!

For those of you who endured Patrick's entry, don't you just love his sense of humor?!
Let me translate his jibberish. We're having a girl!! The ultrasound technician looked a couple different times and said she is fairly confident that we are having a girl. When she announced her findings, I felt tears of joy roll down the right side of my face (as my head was turned to face the monitor). Obviously, Pat and I would be thrilled with either a boy or a girl; it was just such a special moment that I will never forget.
Above right are two profile pictures of our little one steadily growing inside me. She is moving around quite a bit now and is especially active mid-afternoon and late evening.
At bottom right is a blown-up ultrasound picture of her foot. Her five tiny toes are so precious! I am really looking forward to being a mom and meeting our little girl. We have a name picked out but we are not sharing until the big day. We want to give everyone something more to look forward to!

Tuesday, August 28, 2007

This is where the baby lives.

(This part of the blog was written by the paternal half of the couple-Pat)
I would like to start by saying I am writing this blog to fulfill my contractual obligations to my wife. When she wanted to do this blog thing she originally said that we could each write one. So of course I objected, I reasoned that the observations that I would be putting in here could only get me in major trouble (how much weight I have noticed she has gained, how moody she has been, etc) so after about an hour of protest we compromised to one entry.... so here you have it.
This is actually kind of cool because Brenda had an ultrasound yesterday, so I get to tell you all about the details (from my perspective).
Brenda and I have been debating for some time about whether we should find out the sex of our baby. I was on the side of science, technology, appropriate planning, and general common sense. Brenda on the other side was on the side of "old-fashioned" stubborness. I will spare you most of the details but I actually won this debate. We actually did decide to find out the sex. (For those of you who know me I usually let Brenda have her way because she is spoiled and it is just easier but not this time, so this is a big deal).
So we get to the hospital and Brenda has had about 4 gallons of water because they told her to do that. I asked the tecnician why they make them drink so much water and she says to me.."it's to help see the baby better"...well duhh, thanks for that info... I thought it was just so you could watch my wife writhe in agony. (I never really got a straight answer on that.)
So Brenda gets this jelly stuff smeared all over her belly (that's where the baby lives) and then the technician goes to work with her magic wand, periodically stopping to tell us that some blob on the screen is a leg, a lip, hand, head, etc. Seriously she could have told me anything it all looked like a plate of scrambled eggs to me. According to her though everything looked good.
Then came the moment we had been waiting for, and boy were we surprised......two heartbeats...just kidding. That would have been crazy though!
But thenvb fogr toj tllhe Girfhrl aqwdnd swwhe saifdgd thwenw Boy no for how doesrtue!
So needless to say we are both super excited! Hope you enjoyed my blog.

Thursday, August 23, 2007

Dreams

Two of my friends told me about some crazy dreams they had when they were pregnant. I can now relate but will not share those dreams on this site. I will however, share the two dreams I have had about our baby. The first dream I remember occurred last Monday night. I dreamt that I gave birth to twin daughters! They were absolutey beautiful and wrapped in pink blankets. Names were never mentioned in the dream and as much as Patrick wishes it were true, twins are not growing inside of me. The second dream I had was last Wednesday. I dreamt that we had a baby boy! As I was holding him, I turned to show Patrick our son (as if he wouldn't have seen him yet at that point) and I said so this is -- -- and said the exact name we have picked out for a boy. Is this a sign that we are continuing the Jennissen streak??!! We shall see...in 20.1 weeks!

Monday, August 20, 2007

Feeling Pregnant at 19.3 weeks!


The book I am reading was correct...baby & uterus have popped out over the last 3 weeks! I am now feeling pregnant. :) Last Monday I experienced the most uncomfortable feeling of pregnancy thus far. I was driving to one of my clinics and suddenly had some pain in my upper abdomen. Once parked outside the clinic, it took me 10 minutes to get a grip and put on a face to do my call. Once back in my car, I called my ob's nurse just to make sure my inkling of what was going on was correct and that I had no need to worry (sorry Jen, I could have called you!). She confirmed that my ab muscles were stretching to make room for my growing uterus. Oww!!! It hurt really bad. I popped two Tylenol and the pain diminished then resurfaced 6 hours later. Call me a wuss, but I had tears in my eyes it hurt so bad. I told Pat that if it hurts that bad for my ab muscles to stretch how the heck am I gonna get through labor?! I'm pretty sure I'll be more than pleased to have an epidural. So long to my 2-pack and any chance of having a 4-pack ever again. : )
We have our ultrasound next Monday. We're both really excited to see how baby has progressed since the initial ultrasound at 6.6 weeks!

Wednesday, August 8, 2007

Baby's Moving!!

Baby is strong enough to make me notice as I felt him or her move for the first time while lying in bed a couple weeks ago. It's a strange feeling as its not a definite "kick" or "nudge" you hear about later in pregnancy. It's more like a brushing on my insides between my belly and pubic bone. It's an incredible feeling! I'm starting to feel baby move more and more -- mostly while I'm lying in bed at night. However, baby said hello this morning while I was blowdrying my hair too! : )

Sunday, July 29, 2007

Baby's Heartbeat

Friday, 7.27.07 Patrick came with me to my 16 week ob appointment. My bp and weight were checked, we passed on optional testing and then got to hear the baby's heartbeat. This was my third time hearing the baby's heartbeat and Patrick's first. It was so fun to hear baby's heart beating away. I got teary eyed hearing it and it was fun to see Patrick's reaction!! Such a miracle. Last month baby's heartbeat was 163 and this time it was in the 140s-150s -- that's good.
So far pregnancy is great! Everything is going well and I have no complaints. My lack of motivation in the evening has worn off and Pat's thankful for that as I can get more household chores accomplished again. I'm also able to exercise yet. Patrick is jogging with me but I won't go more than 2 miles. The 5K and 10Ks are going to have to wait until next year. My mom and I are also going to look into doing water aerobics at a local pool together. That would be great exercise for me as I progress and I would love the company cuz' I know Patrick wouldn't do that one with me. : )

Prego Brenda!!


Above, Brenda at 16.2 weeks pregnant. The bump is growing... : ) Baby J is approximately 1/2 pound and 4 1/2 inches long. I am still able to fit into my regular clothes (thanks to the low-rise style). According to a weekly e-mail, Baby J will triple in size within the next three weeks. I best get that belly band my sister-in-law recommended -- my clothes probably won't fit so well in the next few weeks! FYI -- With a belly band, you are able to wear your regular clothes with the button/closure undone and sits low on your belly over your pants to hold your pants up. Sounds like a great invention!

Welcome to P-funk and The B's blogspot!!

We created this blog to update family and friends on our journey to parenthood and the road that follows. We hope you enjoy!