Day Six...

Jackson made it home and loved his new bed! He always sleeps with his arms up by his face - it is how he is most comfortable. He is a good sleeper, but we still need some practice!

I'm Coming Home...

Jackson and I were released from the hospital today! We were so ready to go home, but I will admit I was a little nervous! The nurses were all such a big help, and I was a little scared that I would not be able to do it all by myself. However, I had great help at home. Gigi is such a big help!
When we were released from the hospital, Jackson weighed 7 pounds, 7 ounces. This may seem like a big drop in weight from his birth weight of 8 pounds, 1 ounce, but the nurses said that babies are expected to lose 10% of their birth weight. He should start to gain all of that back and be back to his birth weight by 2 weeks.
I was released from the hospital with very little instruction for myself. They told me to take it easy, but to get up and walk every day. They told me to drink lots of water and talk to close friends and family members.
When we got home, Mom had to go fill my prescriptions and get some dinner. She left me at home with Jackson. I was so tired and Jackson was hungry. I had to stay awake and it was SO hard. Mom called me on the phone, and I asked her to keep talking to me so I could stay awake.
Hopefully this gets easier...

Day Five...

We are going home! Finally! We had a great stay in the hospital (I will post all about recovery soon), but I was ready to be in my own bed again! We were discharged late that night, and I was so hungry. My mom had to leave to get my prescriptions filled for my pain medications and grab some dinner! We are so lucky to have her!

Day Four...

Dr. Woolrdige came to visit us today! She said that I look great and everything is healing well! She said that Jackson is perfect, and she even posed for a picture with him! I thanked her so many times for doing a wonderful job, taking care of me, and bringing my beautiful baby into the world!

Day Three...

Renee came to visit us today! It was so great to see her! I can tell she loves him already! It was great to feel loved and supported by so many friends and family members that came to visit!

Day Two...

Not the best picture of the two of us, but the nurses made us get out in the hall and walk! I didn't think I was a fan of this, but it really did help me recover quickly! Jackson, on the other hand, LOVED it! He slept the whole time we walked! What an angel!

Day One...

Jackson was just born! He was just a few hours old! I never imagined I could be that in love that quickly! I had just met him, and I was already smitten with him!

Birth Story (in pictures)...

For those of you that do not want to read the novel I posted about Jackson's birth, I have created a photo story. This will not be as detailed as the birth story, but it will give you a glimpse into that very special day in my life!

This is just before they took me out of the prep room. The nurse was fantastic (she even came to visit me and Jackson the next day in our room)! My dad was trying to keep me calm. Meanwhile, I was having a panic attack! Dad was trying to keep me calm, but I don't think it worked too well. They had already put on my hair net, but it felt like it was falling off. But really at that point - WHO CARES? Dad was rubbing my cheek and placing a cool washcloth on my forehead. He did a great job of being strong!

I love this picture - it shows true, raw emotion! I was being wheeled away to the operating room, and I was a total mess. Dad had held it together for so long. When I finally could not see him anymore, it looks like he was tearing up a little bit. I am sure that it is scary to have your baby being taken into surgery - knowing that, even if everything goes as planned, she will come out changed forever!This man was probably one of my best friends that day - the anesthesiologist! He was great! He tried his best to keep me calm and keep me happy. He was encouraging and kept me comfortable in the operating room! If you deliver at Medical Center of Plano, you should ask for Pat to be your anesthesiologist!

My mom is all ready to go into the operating room! Doesn't she look so cute? I just love the little booties!

Sorry for the grossness of this picture, but it is not as bad as I thought it would be (but it did take me about a week to look at it)! This is the very moment that Jackson made his entrance into the world! They suctioned his nose and mouth - and a few seconds later he was wimpering (and then wailing)!

Sorry, another gross picture... He is officially out! Dr. Woolridge did a great job! He was yucky, but so perfect. At this point, I could not see him because of the curtain they placed up, but I could definitely hear him! Right after this Dr. Woolridge held him up for me to see him! It was love at first sight!

They took Jackson over to an area that the nursery nurses worked at. The did the APGAR test - he scored a 9! The cleaned him off, and made sure he was as perfect as I thought he was. They did his footprints on the hospital certificate and stamped the scrubs my mom was wearing! She wore it proudly almost all day! They weighed him - 8 pounds, 1 ounce! Absolute perfection!

Jackson was not a huge fan of all of the people touching and poking him! They checked his blood sugar levels by pricking his heel, and everything turned out fine! He sure does have a set of lungs on him!The nursery nurses wrapped him up like a little burrito, and they brought him over to me!

It was true love at first sight! At this point my tears of fear turned into tears of joy! I was so excited to meet this little man! I couldn't stop kissing him! He was so handsome! He immediately stopped crying when they brought him to me. Mom held him on my chest as long as they would let him! Honestly, I thought I would be upset if I was not the first person to hold him. I had talked with a few people before he was born, and one person told me to think of it like this - If I can't hold him because of the surgery, would I want him lying on a table all alone or held, snuggled, and cared for by someone that loves both of us? I decided that it would be okay if I was not the first person that held him. I know that my mom loves him just as much as I do, and she was the perfect way to pass along my love to Jackson!

Big yawn! It looks like he is screaming his head off, but I promise he is yawning! It was the cutest thing! Being brought into this world must be tiring!

I was in complete awe - he was perfect! My little bundle of joy! There is not a thing in this world I would trade for him! He may not have been planned, but it didn't matter at that point! He is a gift from God, given to me to protect and raise, to love and to teach, to guide and to comfort. The list of parenting roles goes on and on and on and on...

One last kiss from Mommy before he was taken to the nursery. My mom went with him. I thought I would be afraid to be left alone on the operating table, but I would have much rather had someone go with him. I knew we would both be fine, but it was important to me for someone to remain with him at all times.

Off to the nursery... The nursery nurses checked his APGAR again - and again he scored a 9! They gave him his first bath and got him smelling good and clean for Mommy and all of our visitors! Look at the hair on that baby!

Being in the nursery really isn't that bad! But he was ready to see him mommy!

Jackson being sweet in the nursery! He was an angel while he was away from his mommy! Gigi (my mom) was amazed at everything about him!

That diaper looks HUGE on him! He is so tiny... They placed him right by the windows in the nursery so everyone could look at him!

Gigi held his hand while he was by the windows. Little does he know that she is the most amazing women that I know. Her hand always provides comfort and love!

He was so brave in the nursery! He had to be away from me for a while while Dr. Woolridge finished up my surgery! I think he probably took a little nap!

They had to make sure that he could maintain his proper temperature. They clamped his umbilical cord and let him rest! He had already had a rough day!

***At this point, I was back in the recovery room with my dad and Jamie. They were surprised that it didn't take very long, and I am sure they were shocked that I was not a total mess like I was when I left! I am also sure there was a great sense of relief in the room! My dad went off to the nursery to get his first glimpse of perfection!

Poppop (my dad) waited by the window and watched his grandson get ready! I am sure he is texting family members about the birth of his grandson - and, of course, how perfect he is!

They finally brought Jackson to me! He was so quiet and still - he looked like a little doll! I held him for a long time, but I knew that everyone there wanted a chance to hold a small piece of Heaven! While I was holding him, I called all of my grandparents to let them know that Jackson and I were perfect! They were all surprised to hear from me, and not my mom or dad! I felt great after surgery - but who wouldn't feel amazing after falling in love with the most perfect little boy they have ever laid eyes on?

Proud grandparents!!!

Three generations!

Jackson - You don't know it yet, but these two women love you more than life itself. I, personally, would give/do ANYTHING for you - and I am almost positive that your Gigi would do the same! We love you!

Birth

Sorry it has taken so long for me to log on and write this... Recovery plus taking care of a newborn is not exactly the easiest thing I have ever done! This may be long, graphic, boring, etc... But I really want to get all of this down so I remember it in the years to come! (I will write another post telling the birth story in mostly pictures...) I will preface all of this by saying - All of the pain, anxiety, sleepless nights, etc is totally worth it!!!

I knew I was having a c-section... Jackson was breech long before the doctor ever told me that I would need a c-section. There was nothing wrong, but I could tell that his head never moved from that one spot (under my ribs on the right side of my body... very high). The rest of his little body moved. I could feel kicks and nudges. I could even feel him turning. I kept telling my mom that Jackson would either have a swirl (in his hair) on the top of his head or a bald spot like an old man! So when I went to the doctor, we scheduled a c-section for Friday, August 26th at noon! The anticipation set in!

I had a list a mile long of things I needed to or wanted to do before Jackson was born. The two weeks prior to him arriving were full of thank you notes, cleaning, organizing, cooking, shopping, and so much more. I made some final visits to some friends and co-workers. I felt like I was ready to go!

The night before Jackson's big arrival, my best friend spent the night. I figured I wouldn't be sleeping, so Jamie spent the night to help keep my mind off of the things that would be happening in the next few days! I finally fell asleep around 2am. I was happy that I got some sleep, but it didn't feel like enough!

I woke up around 7:30 Friday morning. I took a long, hot, relaxing shower - because I knew it would be another 6 or more years before I would get another one! I dried my hair, fixed my makeup, and got dressed - nothing fancy, just something comfortable. I drove to the hospital with my mom. We met my dad in the waiting area. I checked in with the registration desk, and headed up to labor and delivery. It all felt very strange - just walking up to someone, telling them that I was here to have a baby. They put me in a room, had me pee in a container attached to the toilet seat, and put on a hospital gown. Let me just tell you - a hospital gown is not the most comfortable or attractive thing in the world! I climbed back into the hospital bed. Jamie showed up at the hospital to wait with me. You should know that Jamie is applying to med school so she can become an anesthesiologist. She really wanted to go through the whole procedure with me - from a medical stand point, but I knew that I had to have my mom with me! The nurse asked me a million and one questions about anything and everything you could ever thing of. My parents were in the room, and I kind of just wanted to talk to them, but I knew she had to get all of these questions answered. As the nurse was asking me questions, these two other nurses came in to get things ready to start my IV. They kept telling me that they didn't have some medicine, but they would get it and then start my IV. I got the impression that the medicine they didn't have was the numbing medicine - so I wouldn't feel them putting the IV in my wrist.

The nurses finally came back with the numbing medication - and got started on my IV. I am not a huge fan of needles, so I didn't look - and I am glad I didn't. They worked on getting the IV in my arm while I talked to my dad. He tried to take my mind off of things. I kept telling him that it felt like they were shoving a straw in my arm. The IV felt super thick. I was not a fan!!! One of the nurses told me she was almost finished, but not to look because she made a bit of a mess and she wanted to clean it up a bit. I immediately knew what that meant. I knew there was blood all over my arm. She finally got me all cleaned up, and a huge rush of warmth ran through my arm. It changed from warm to cold and back to warm. It kept fluctuating all morning. I was allowed to move my arm and wrist whichever way I wanted to, but I really only wanted to keep my wrist really straight and really still. My parents and Jamie kept trying to calm me down. Finally, I calmed down.

I knew the time was getting close - I was going in for surgery at noon. Around 11am, my main nurse came into the room to tell me the best news of my life (a bit of an exaggeration). There was an emergency c-section that needed to push my c-section back a little bit. I knew that it would take a while, so I was a bit relieved that I was not the next one up. We waited about 45 minutes, and then the nurse and anesthesiologist came into the room. The nurse advised my parents to go get something to eat because it was going to be a long night. Jamie stayed with me - her dream come true! The anesthesiologist brought in his cart. I sat on the edge of the bed and hunched over Jamie's shoulders. The nurse brought the bed up really high. The anesthesiologist told me that something was going to be really cold. He started painting something on my back. I asked Jamie why it was so cold. I could feel it dripping down my back. He did something to wipe some of it off (I think). He put a sticky sheet on my back. Then he said that I was going to feel a sting - like a bee sting. Throughout all of this, I was crying hysterically. I was breathing really heavy and sobbing on Jamie's shoulder. At one point I told Jamie that I didn't think I really needed an epidural. My biggest problem was that I wanted to be in control of everything that was happening. The worst part about the whole process is that I had no control over anything!!! The anesthesiologist stuck me with some needle that felt just like a bee sting. I was crying so much - and Jamie did a great job keeping me calm. I tried to turn and look to see what was going on behind me, but Jamie kept me looking forward. That was the control part of me trying to take over. The anesthesiologist was cracking jokes and trying to keep me happy. The anesthesiologist told me that I would feel heat and a tingle run all over my body. I still think it is really strange that I felt it spread all over my body. It felt like someone was spreading peanut butter all over my back - hot, tingly peanut butter. My back went numb, then my stomach, followed by my butt, legs, and feet. The numbness was not exactly automatic - first it was warm, and then tingly, and then numb. The anesthesiologist started taping the epidural tube up my back so it would not get ripped out at any point during the surgery or the 24 hours after surgery. They told me to lie down and swing my legs up onto the bed - clearly they were joking, but I didn't know that. I tried to lift my legs, and started crying even more. The nurse and the anesthesiologist pulled my legs onto the bed and helped me lay back. I remember asking them how they were lifting my legs - they felt like they each weighed 100 pounds or more. They all laughed, and told me that they didn't give me something to gain weight. They explained that I couldn't tell, but they weighed the exact same amount they did before the epidural. I would touch my legs, but I couldn't really tell I was touching my legs. I mean - my hands could tell I was touching something, but my legs had no idea. The anesthesiologist left the room for a little bit (maybe 5 minutes). He came back and said that we were ready to rock and roll!

***At some point during the installation of the epidural, I remember that someone tried to come in the door to my room. I don't know who it was, and the curtain between the door and the room was pulled shut. Someone met the intruders and ushered them away. I didn't know who it was at the time, but my parents were back from lunch. When I was finished, my dad came into the room and talked to me for a few brief minutes before I was ushered away. I didn't see my mom, and I was afraid that my mom would not be in the operating room, and that I would be all alone!

I was rolled out into the hallway - and saw my mom! Everyone assured me that she would be in the operating room, but she had to get ready first. Mom got dressed in her scrubs while I was being taken into the operating room. When we got in the operating room, the nurses told me that they would be rolling me on my side and sliding a board under my body. It was the weirdest feeling - being rolled on my side. I had no control and I would have been unable to catch myself if I had fallen. They rolled me on my side, and I didn't fall. They slipped a board under my back, and rolled me back. They lifted me over to the operating table. They pulled out two arm tables, placed my arms on the boards, and laid warm blankets over my arms. I think my mom came in at this point because everything started to happen really fast. I remember looking at my mom, crying, and talking to her. I said things like "I can't do this!" and "Are you ready to be a grandma?" I was hysterically sobbing. I started to feel nauseated. The anesthesiologist pushed something through my IV and almost instantly I felt better. I continued crying to my mom, and she continued to tell me that everything was going to be fine! At that point, Dr. Woolridge came into the room. She came up to my head so I could see her. She asked me why I was crying, and I told her that I didn't want to do this anymore. She told me that at this point, we didn't really have a choice. I told her that I was okay, but I don't really think that I was. She walked to the other side of the operating table, and, after a few minutes, she said she was ready to begin. Again I freaked out. I told her she couldn't start because I was afraid I would feel her start cutting into me. She told me that she just pinched me really hard, and I didn't even flinch! We all chuckled, and I said that we could begin. She told me that I was going to have to stop crying because I was sobbing so hard that my whole body was shaking. With my whole body shaking, she could not make the incision. The anesthesiologist pushed something else into my IV, and I asked him what it was. He told me it would help me relax. I looked at my mom instantly, telling her that I felt really sleepy. Before she could reply, I was asleep. I woke up about a minute later - just enough time for the surgery to begin. I looked at my mom and asked her why I was feeling so tired, but, before she could reply, I was already asleep. I woke up a few minutes later. I could feel my body rocking back and forth, but I could not feel any pain. Dr. Woolridge said that the baby was really stuck in my uterus. I didn't know what that meant, but I could tell by the way she was tugging on my body. Before the baby was even out of my body, the anesthesiologist said, "Yep, definitely a boy!" I was relieved - since we have only boy things! I started talking to Mom, asking her if she was ready to be a grandmother and telling her that I couldn't believe that this was happening. I was starting to feel that rush of happiness that everyone talks about. Dr. Woolridge told my mom that she would want to stand up and watch what was about to happen. Mom stood up, and watched Dr. Woolridge pull the baby out of my body. I started crying again, but it was not the out of control sobbing that it had been. Dr. Woolridge held the baby up over the curtain for me to see. He was covered in goop, but I could tell he was perfect. I started crying happy tears as they brought the baby over to the warming table. Mom told me that she was going to go over to the baby - and I was okay with that. She went over to watch them clean him off, weigh him, and of course take pictures! I watched as the nurses did his footprints, and then stamped his footprints on Mom's scrub shirt. After a while (a few minutes) the nurse brought my tightly bound bundle of joy and laid him on my chest. Mom held him on with her hand. He was very close to my face, but I was able to kiss him and talk to him! I was crying even more then, but definitely happy tears! The nursery nurses took the baby and my mom off to the nursery to clean him up and get all of his stats. I was perfectly at peace at that point - I knew I was in good hands. I could see some of the surgery in the overhead lights, but I still couldn't feel anything! I started talking to the anesthesiologist and Dr. Woolridge. We talked about the music playing in the operating room, other patients they have delivered, and how things were looking. Dr. Woolridge was surprised that I could watch what was happening, but it assured me that things would be done fairly soon. A few minutes after that, Dr. Woolridge announced that she was all done. I thanked her for delivering that perfect baby that I was chosen to have. She left the operating room, and I was in the hands of the nurses. They picked me up off of the operating table, and placed me back on the bed I was brought in on. They rolled me on my side, and took the board out from under me. When they rolled me on my side, I could see towels soaked with blood. I was not a huge fan of that, but I knew I was fine, the baby was fine, and everything was over. I thanked the anesthesiologist and other nurses that were working on me and the baby, and my nurse wheeled me back to the recovery room.

***After the surgery, my mom told me that they figured out why the baby was breech. At one point in the surgery, Dr. Woolridge lifted my uterus out of my body and told everyone to look at it. (Yes, I now feel like a science experiment!) My mom didn't take any pictures, but she said my uterus is shaped like a heart. The baby's head was stuck in one of the cavities at the top of the heart - and he would have never been able to turn. It is a permanent condition, but nothing to be too concerned about! But did I mention that she LIFTED MY UTERUS OUT OF MY BODY?!?!?!

My dad and Jamie were surprised that I was finished already. I am sure they were also surprised that I came into the room smiling, my eyes wet with tears of joy! Mom was still in the nursery with the baby, and Dad left shortly after to watch on the other side of the nursery glass. Jamie stayed with me as I got settled back in my room. They informed me that there were no rooms available in the post-partum section of the hospital, but as soon as something was available, I would be placed.

I was so overwhelmed with emotions at that point. I had definitely calmed down, but was crying tears of joy! I am sure that I asked a million times where the baby was, but Jamie was patient and continued answering my questions.

It was the most amazing experience of my life! A little painful, but totally worth it! Jackson Thomas O'Brien was born on August 26, 2011 at 1:55pm. He weighed 8 pounds, 1 ounce and was 20.75 inches long. He is 100% perfect! And I could not be happier! This boy has stolen my heart! I thought I knew what true love was - but now I am sure!

Letter to My Son...

Dearest Jackson,

It might seem strange that I am writing a letter to you and I haven't met you yet. But I feel like I already know you. I hope that one day you read this letter and look back on your life and know that I loved you so much before I even met you!

I think I am getting ahead of myself...

I am your mother. You have probably heard my voice - hopefully, soon you will recognize it! I am sure you have heard my heart beat - hopefully, you will find comfort in that same sound as you cuddle on my chest. You have been with me for the most emotional times of my life, and YOU are soon to be the most joyful part of my life! The title of mother comes with much responsibility - and I hope not to let you down... That is probably my biggest fear now! I feel like I am as ready as I could ever possibly be, but at the same time I know there is so much that I am unprepared for. Hopefully you will be patient and loving while I learn all that I need to do!

I have so many hopes and dreams for your future - but they may seem generic. I intend for them to be generic because I want you to grow into a strong young man with a strong sense of self. I hope that you become the man you want to be - following your wishes, desires and dreams. I hope that you know that I will be proud of you no matter what!

I hope that you have a strong passion for education. Education is very important in your life - it will take you where you want to go. I hope you develop a love for reading at an early age, and that desire continues throughout your life. I hope that you are never afraid to ask for help when you need it. There is no such thing as a silly question - except the one that goes unasked. I hope you set goals for yourself and achieve them.

I hope that you develop a strong love for your family. I can tell you from personal experience that your family will never leave you. I will never walk away from you. I hope that you constantly feel loved and supported. Please know, and believe, that I will do anything possible for you!

I hope that you surround yourself with positive influences. There are already people in your life that love you more than you could ever imagine. Your Gigi is so excited to meet you. She is my biggest support system, and I am sure she will always be there for you. Your Poppop loves you too. He can't wait to play with you, and teach you how to be funny. He will always have a big shoulder for you to cry on and big strong arms to wrap you up in a hug. Your great-grandparents are so excited to meet you. They are so in love with you! Your Aunt Jamie and Uncle Ronnie are so excited for you to get here. They are my best friends - the ones I look up to for everything. Aunt Jamie is so loving and encouraging. She will love you to pieces. She is one of the strongest people I know - she will always be there to support you (and me). Uncle Ronnie is one of the funniest people I know. I hope that you take after him in so many ways. He is funny and crude at times, but he is so caring and loving when it comes to his friends and family. Aunt Jamie and Uncle Ronnie have been there for me in some of my worst times, and they still love me. They will no doubt love you too!

I hope that you will never be afraid to be yourself. As you get older people will try to pressure you to do things. I hope that you are strong enough to stand up for what you believe in. It is a tough world out there, but I hope that you will believe in yourself.

I hope that you develop a love for the Lord. I hope that you have a desire to live your life to please God. I hope you develop your own testimony, and are strong enough to share your beliefs with anyone you meet.

I hope that you meet and fall in love with the perfect women. I hope that you have a strong marriage - one that never fails. I hope you have a beautiful family - one that is happy and vibrant.

I hope that you are always healthy, happy, and full of love. I hope that you are brave, strong, and kind. I hope you are supportive, generous, and caring.

I promise that I will do everything I can to help you prepare for the future. I promise to be your biggest supporter. I promise to constantly love you - and I will tell you I love you, even when it is not cool. I promise I will never ever desert you - I will be right beside you through every hardship you face. I may not always give you what you want, but I will do my best to give you what you need. I may not be the best mother on the planet, but I will do my very best to get as close as humanly possible.

I love you more than anything on the planet. You are perfect. You are my treasure.

Never EVER forget that!

I love you Jackson Thomas O'Brien - always have, always will!

Love always,

Mom

Last Day of Pregnancy...

It is finally here! The last day of my pregnancy...

I thought I would be so excited and ready for the big day...

I am - to an extent - ready for tomorrow. I am ready to be comfortable again. I am ready to feel like there isn't an alien trying to escape from my stomach. I am ready to meet Jackson. I am ready to hold him in my arms and kiss his perfect skin.

On the other hand, I am so not ready! I am scared about the surgery. I have never broken a bone... I have never had surgery (other than wisdom teeth removal)... I have never even had a cavity! I know that things will go great, but it is still scary! I am scared about doing the right things and making all of the right decisions - not just tomorrow but for the rest of my life. I am scared about being responsible for someone other than myself. I am nervous about bringing him home - I will be a wreck the first time I drive with him in the car.

Jamie is spending the night tonight - although I know I won't be able to sleep! I just need someone to keep me company...

I do want to take some time to thank everyone that has been positive and supportive during this time - and for those that will continue to do so tomorrow and every day there after! Your love and support means more than any words can express!

I know that tomorrow will be the best day of my life - The day I will truly fall in love! I know that all of my fears will go away tomorrow after I see Jackson for the first time! I will be fine, and Jackson will be perfect!

What's In A Name...

I have decided choosing a name is one of the hardest things I will ever do in my life...

I bounced a few ideas back and forth... First in my mind... Then with my parents... Then with close friends...

Finally, I decided on Jackson Thomas O'Brien!

After I decided on a name, I shared it with my extended family and the rest of my friends. It amazes me how many people think that I would take their thoughts on his name in to consideration. When someone asks, "Have you picked a name?", I would respond, "Jackson Thomas!" People would say things like, "Oh, I don't like that!" or "I'm not a fan of that name!" Well, guess what people, I didn't ask for your opinion! I never said that, but I thought it REAL hard every time! Most of these people have had the opportunity to pick names for their children, so their turn is over! I love the name I picked for my son!

I love the name Jackson - It is a little bit southern, and allows for a lot of flexibility.

I decided on Thomas as a middle name - This will be after my Uncle Thomas. He has never been married, and doesn't have any children. Nonetheless, he has been a great influence in my life, and he has always been there for me and my parents. I thought this would be a good way to honor him!

I figure we will call him Jackson while he is a child, but as he gets older, he can adjust his name. He could go by JT or Jack. JT might be a good name while he is in high school, and Jack would be suitable for him as an adult if he wanted to be the CEO of a company.

However, he will forever be MY baby - Jackson Thomas O'Brien!

Bump...

Since I am starting this blog about 9 months too late, I am going to try to summarize this pregnancy...

Winter Break - I could have slept the entire time. This was very frustrating to my mom because she thought I was being lazy. There were things that I needed to get done, but it took so much energy to do anything, and I was already tired.

End of December/Beginning of January - There were several days that I became extremely dizzy in the shower. There were not several days in a row, but rather a few days here and there. There appeared to be no consistency with the feelings, but I brushed it off as 'normal' because I had several dizzy spells (especially while in the shower) in previous years. I had several weird feelings, including loss of hearing, light-headedness, beginning to black out, and slight nausea. To solve these dizzy spells, I would try a variety of things: sitting in the tub, turning the water temperature down, lying in the tub, and getting out of the tub and lying on the bathroom floor. Whatever it would take to get the feeling to pass. It usually only took a few minutes for the feelings to go away, and then I was right back up and in my normal routine. I didn't think much of it...

January 11, 2011 - I was not feeling well and decided to take the day off from work. I scheduled a doctor's appointment for 2pm with my primary care doctor. I had eaten breakfast (something light), but had not ventured much out of bed that day. I got out of bed and started getting ready for my doctor's appointment around 12:30pm. While in the shower, I had one of my dizzy spells. I was a little concerned, and I figured I should bite the bullet and take a pregnancy test. I was home all by myself, and I was scared for the results. As soon as I took the test, it was positive. I was instantly terrified. I didn't know what to do or who to tell. I called my best friend, Jamie, and she calmed me down. She told me that everything would be okay. I got back in the shower and finished getting ready for my doctor's appointment, crying the whole time. I went to my doctor's appointment, where she confirmed the pregnancy. She told me that I was about 6 weeks along, which I had already figured out. That night I spent a lot of time with Jamie. We talked and she helped me remain calm about the situation. I didn't sleep very well that night.

January 12, 2011 (week 6, day 7) - I went to work feeling very tired, overly emotional, and still a little under-the-weather. I sent Ryan a text message at lunch and told him that we needed to talk, preferably in person. He didn't want to talk in person or on the phone, so I had no other choice but to send him a text message and let him know that I was pregnant. He immediately called me. I was at work, but not around the kids. I was eating my lunch, so I had a little while to talk. He was on his way to work. He was not very nice about the whole situation. He was very manipulative and threatening during the conversation. I could tell that we were not going to get anywhere, so I told him that I would talk to him later. I finished my work day, receiving several text messages from Ryan throughout the day. I tried to ignore the whole situation, but it was increasingly difficult to do this. That night, I came home and knew that I had to tell my mom. I sat down on the couch next to her and just started crying. I told her that I had something that I had to tell her, but through the sobbing I am sure that was hard to understand. She asked a series of questions to figure out why I was so upset, and she finally asked if I was pregnant. I told her yes, and began sobbing uncontrollable. She did not say much, and I didn't like everything she had to say. I did not know how Mom would react, but this was different that anything I had imagined. Not better, not worse - just different. After about three hours of crying and talking, she told me that I had to call my dad. After much resistance, I called him and asked him to come over to our apartment. He could tell that something was wrong, so he rushed over. With tears in my eyes, I told my dad that I was pregnant. He instantly wrapped me in his big, strong arms. I instantly felt safe. I was so afraid that my dad was going to be angry and leave, never to be heard from again. His reaction was a welcomed surprise. We talked, cried, and laughed for about two hours. He left, after giving me and my mom a hug. I finally went to bed, crying. I was finally able to fall asleep, but this had definitely been one of the longest and hardest days of my life.

***It is still hard for me to write about January 12th. Even while I was writing this I began to sob. I was scared that my parents, my biggest support system, were going to walk away. I never wanted to disappoint my parents, and I knew that this was a big moment of disappointment. I also realized that I was going to have to give up on some of my dreams (which I was becoming okay with), but it was hard for me to swallow the fact that my decisions and actions were making my mom give up on her dreams for me (and for her). This is still hard for me to think about, but things are getting better.***

The days and weeks that followed - I had numerous text messages and phone conversations with Ryan. These were still very stressful and emotional. We discussed everything from abortion (which was out from the beginning) to adoption (which I knew I was not strong enough to do), child support to visitation. We did a lot of fighting and arguing, and most of our conversations ended with me crying. I also scheduled my first prenatal appointment with Dr. Woolridge. Things with my parents changed as well. Mom didn't want to talk about it. This was difficult for me because I was racking my mind with all of the terrible things she was thinking but not saying. Dad had lots of very tough questions for me to answer.

January 18, 2011 (week 7, day 6) - I turned 23. This day was bittersweet for me. It was the last birthday that would really be all about me. I didn't celebrate much - everyone was still in shock.

January 28, 2011 (week 9, day 2) - I had my first prenatal appointment, and my first sonogram. Mom went with me, but wasn't in the room the entire time. She was there for support and to ask questions that I didn't know or think to ask. They took a urine sample and weighed me. They took blood and ran lots of blood tests. Then they did a sonogram. Although the baby was so small, it was there. Dr. Woolridge measured the baby's length, and confirmed that the baby was 2.14 cm - 8 weeks and 5 days. This measurement was a few days shy of what I calculated, but nothing to worry about. She found a heartbeat - nice and strong - and very fast (162 bpm). She said that everything looked perfect, and sent me home with things to read and samples of prenatal vitamins. Because of a previous condition, Dr. Woolridge felt that I should go see a perinatal specialist for a sonogram to determine if the condition was still present. If the condition was still present, I would be considered a high-risk pregnancy. We scheduled the appointment for February 23rd. After the appointment, I sent Ryan a text message to let him know what they said at my appointment. I let him know about the upcoming appointments, and let him know that he was welcomed to attend since this was his baby. Things still were not great with him, but I felt that he needed and had the right to know what was going on with his child.

February 11, 2011 (week 11, day 2) - I had another appointment with Dr. Woolridge. She did an annual exam, and this made me very nervous. She said that it was important to make sure that the baby could be as healthy as possible, and she explained the placement of the baby and ensured that the baby would be completely safe. After the exam, she used the Doppler to listen to the heartbeat. It was still there and still strong. It had slowed since the first appointment, but was still in the proper range. I went to this appointment alone, which I was fine with since I knew what would be happening. Dr. Woolridge also wrote me a prescription for the prenatal vitamins that I preferred. Although my choice is two separate pills, they are still huge. One is strictly a vitamin, and the other provides DHA (for brain development).

February 18-20, 2011 (week 12, days 2-4) - This was the most fun weekend I had had in a long time. Jamie, Bre, Samantha, Gabby and I piled in my car and drove (the longest drive ever) to Austin. We were going for AOII State Day, but we left on Friday afternoon. We made several stops (food, gas, sight-seeing, dinner, etc). We had so much fun! We, finally (after 6 hours), made it to Austin. We checked into our hotel, and decided to check out 6th Street. We didn't want to go out, so we drove downtown and checked out all of the placed we wanted to go the following night. We went to a restaurant to get something to eat, but we were not served. After waiting quite a while, we left. We went to a grocery store and bought some snacks and ice cream, and then we went back to the hotel. We talked and giggled for a while, and finally settled down to go to bed. On Saturday, we attended Texas AOII State Day. The program wasn't great (maybe I was too tired or too busy thinking about what we were going to do that night), but it is always fun to get together with those women. There was a great silent auction and the Emporium was there. We held Ritual and learned about the importance of heart health. After State Day was over, we went out to dinner at the Hula Hut. It was so much fun, perfect weather, and great food. We spent several hours there, but it was worth it. It was so much fun to just spend time with great friends. Then we went back to the hotel and took a nap. We slept for about three hours before getting ready for out night on the town. We got read - which was hilarious - five girls, one bathroom, lots of clothes, makeup and hairspray. We went downstairs, only to find some AOII women that we all greatly admire. We were all a little embarrassed to see these women. We were all dressed up to go out, but they assured us that they were our age at one time. They encouraged us to go out and have fun, but to be safe. And that is just what we did! We made it to 6th Street, found parking, and hit the bars. I was obviously the designated driver. We got in free everywhere we went, and the girls rarely paid for drinks. I stuck to Sprite! We danced and the girls had a drink or two at each bar we went to, and finally I had to sit down! Gabby and I went into a bar that was less crowded and found a booth to sit at. The other girls went next door and had a drink at a famous bar that they wanted to go to (but it was really crowded). When the other three girls came back to meet up with me and Gabby, we were surrounded by five guys. We ended up staying at this bar until everything closed. We saw some really strange things on our walk back to the car. We all laughed really hard, and Gabby almost wet her pants. We made it back to the hotel, and then Bre, Sam and I made a Wendy's run. This was the worst designed Wendy's ever - no inside and a drive-thru that wrapped around the building. We made it back to the hotel, and went to bed. On Sunday, we woke up and got ready to get on the road. We decided to stop just outside of Austin to get the world's largest donut. It was bigger than my head. We split it in the car, and then stopped at IHOP (which was where we originally wanted to have breakfast). We stopped just after IHOP to get gas for the trip home. While at the truck stop, Bre lost her trucker hat and proceeded to chase it all over the parking lot. We locked her out of the car, and we all (even Bre) shared a good laugh! We made it home in great time. I don't know about the other girls, but I took the longest nap ever - glad to be back in my own bed! This was a great weekend. After all of the eventful drama that has been going on in my life lately, it was nice to get away from my normal life and relax with some friends. They knew I was pregnant, but it wasn't what we talked about most of the time. I am so lucky to have great friends like those girls! Love you guys!

February 23, 2011 (week 12, day 7) - I had my appointment with Dr. Brown-Elliot. She is the perinatal specialist that Dr. Woolridge wanted me to see. Mom went to the appointment with me. I filled out some paperwork, and they took me back to the exam room. They checked some things and asked me some questions, and finally brought Mom into the room. The equipment they have at the specialist's office looks like NASA operating systems. It is so high-tech. The picture was pretty clear, but since this is my first real sonogram the doctor had to point almost everything out to me. Dr. Brown-Elliot was very thorough and checked for anything and everything. We got some great pictures and she said that everything looked perfect. The baby was being shy and had its legs crossed so she couldn't make any gender predictions.

March 11, 2011 (week 15, day 2) - I had an appointment with Dr. Woolridge. She went over everything that Dr. Brown-Elliot sent over in her report. She confirmed that everything looked fine, and there was no presence of the condition I had previously been diagnosed with. She weighed me and asked how everything was going. She asked if I had any questions, but I didn't. The appointment was easy, but Mom was there for help and support.

March 18-20, 2011 (week 16, day 2-4) - Mom and I ventured to Louisiana for AOII State Day. It was full of great food, good meetings, and meeting a ton of new AOIIs. It was fun to spend time with Mom, and I can totally tell that she is getting more excited about the baby. I met some boys on the ULM baseball team. Mom went to ULM when she was in college, and we had lots of fun with the baseball team on our floor in the hotel. It made me wonder what it would have been like if I would have gone away to college. I met some great collegiate and alumnae women, and we shared some great laughs over wonderful food! I would love to go back again sometime soon!

March 25, 2011(week 17, day 2) - This was a very important day to Mom, Dad, and me. When I told them that I was pregnant, they were both afraid that I would not finish college. I had one class that I had to take in order to graduate. So I began my Texas History Express Course. It was a whirlwind, and I left class with my head spinning. There was so much information to cover in just three short weekends. I was committed to finishing that class, and prove to my parents that I would in fact finish college. I understand their fear, but I was not going to let that happen to me!

***Sometime in March, my dad told my grandmother, Grammy. He knew that I was stressed out about telling my grandparents, so he wanted to lift some of the weight off my shoulders. It was greatly appreciated!***

April 1, 2011 (week 18, day 2) - The long awaited day finally came. I was scheduled for another sonogram with Dr. Brown-Elliot. This was my anatomy scan, a scan that checks and measures everything on the little tiny body that is growing inside of me. As usual, Dr. Brown-Elliot checked and explained everything. She saw no signs of a clef pallet or any other developmental issues. She checked the heart, lungs, kidneys, and any other organ. We saw five little fingers on each hand and five tiny toes on each foot. We also found out that I am growing a little baby BOY! I started crying after she told us, but I am not sure why. A flood of emotions washed over me. I know that I wanted and really thought I was having a girl. I know that Mom really wanted me to have a girl. I was scared that if I was having a boy, Ryan would fight me for the baby. On top of all of that, finding out the gender of your little one makes it so incredibly real! It was a good appointment - reassurance of a healthy baby is always welcome. I left with a few pictures of the little one and a DVD of the entire appointment.

April 8, 2011 (week 19, day 2) - I had another appointment with Dr. Woolridge. These appointments are starting to get predictable, so I told Mom that she didn't need to come. This appointment was all of 5 minutes. They took another urine sample, weighed me, and asked if I had any questions.

April 10, 2011 (week 19, day 4) - I finished my Texas History Express Class. I learned a ton of information about Texas, and some of it I still remember. The class was a lot more enjoyable than I first imagined. I received an A in the course, finishing off my college transcript. Shortly after finishing the class, I ordered a transcript, hand-delivered it to TWU, picked up my graduation tickets, and purchased my cap and gown.

April 17, 2011 (week 20, day 4) - I attended April's bridal shower. It was so great to see my friends and celebrate such an exciting event in a friend's life. Everyone asked how I was doing, and April even talked to the little one in my belly.

***Sometime during April, I told my grandmother, Mimi. This was really difficult, but I knew that I had to tell her. She took it as I had expected. She was shocked and sad, but she told me that she loves me no matter what. She asked questions about how I was doing and how the baby was doing. It was yet another weight lifted off my shoulders, but this time I had to do it on my own!***

May 6, 2011 (week 23, day 2) - I had another appointment with Dr. Woolridge. They did the usual, but this time when they asked if I had any questions, I pulled out a list. Mom was surprised that I had a list, and I covered all of her questions (plus some). I gained a little more weight than Dr. Woolridge would have liked for me to have gained over the past month, but she said that she is not currently too concerned about it. She told me to watch what I eat, and get up and exercise.

***Sometime during the week of May 8-13, I told my grandmother, Nanny. This was the hardest person to tell, other than my parents. I literally lay on my bed crying and shaking as I told her. Mom cane into my room and held me. Nanny was shocked and sad, but she also told me she loves me no matter what and she would help me as much as possible. She did not say much to Mom or me about it for a while.***

May 14, 2011 (week 24, day 3) - This was probably the biggest, most important day of my life so far. I finally graduated from college. I finished all of my requirements in April. I proudly walked across the stage, receiving my Bachelor's degree in Education. My mom and dad were there, as well as Brenda and Jamie. I teared up a few times, but I made it through. I had an over-whelming sense of pride and feelings of accomplishment as I moved my tassel from the right side of my cap to the left side of my cap. I didn't receive my actual degree - that will come in the mail in several months. I am so glad that I decided to walk during graduation - not just for me, but for my parents. It was truly a day I will not forget.

May 17, 2011 (week 24, day 6) - I had another appointment with Dr. Brown-Elliot. This time I invited both my mom and my dad. I was not sure if this would be weird for Dad, but he thought it was neat to see the baby, and he said it made it even more real for him to see the little one. Dr. Brown-Elliot checked and measured everything again. I was able to point out some things on the sonogram, but still not everything. She said that everything still looks perfect, and I am still having a little boy. This time she was able to tell me that he is one pound, nine ounces - which is right on track for how far along I am. It is so comforting to hear the reassuring words of the doctor telling you that your baby looks perfect and healthy.

May 20-23, 2011 (week 25, day 2-5) - I think the nesting bug hit - hard! I started by cleaning my bathroom - cleaning and organizing. I literally scrubbed the tile, baseboards, and cabinets. I dusted the walls and ceiling. I bought cleaning and organizing products. It sparkled when I was done. I cleaned out my closet - bagging up old clothing, shoes and accessories. This is probably a relief to Mom, and it makes me feel good to get something cleaned, organized, and ready for the future. My closet didn't get fully finished during this time, but I made huge progress.

May 28-June 1, 2011 (week 26, day 3-7) - Mom and I traveled to Arkansas. This was an interesting trip, but I feel it was much needed. I had not seen my grandparents since I told them I was pregnant. It was good for them to see that I really was doing well. We were able to spend time with Mimi before driving to Nanny's house. We went to Nanny's to spend time with her on her birthday. We did a lot of work, but we had a lot of fun. I brought all of the clothes I was getting rid of from my closet. We were also able to go to Jonesboro to visit Carolyn and Cecil. Cecil was recently diagnosed with cancer, and was undergoing surgeries and chemo treatments. He looked good, but I know cancer is a long, hard road. We made the long trip home on June 1st.

June 2, 2011 (week 27, day 1) - Today I visited Burks Elementary School. This is where I worked as a tutor for the semester following my student teaching. It was the last day of school. I watched the talent show. It was pretty cute - the talent was... interesting! I was able to spend time with the kids and teachers I worked with - It was so great to see them all again! That night I had my first child birth education class. We talked about all of the basics, and we got to know the other moms in the class. I was one of five pregnant women in the class. One of the ladies was by herself, two of the women were with their husbands, and two of us were with grandmothers-to-be. It was a great mix. One of the women, AnneMarie, is due on the same date (September 1st) as me, and we are both having boys! It was really informational, and gave me some questions to ask Dr. Woolridge. It did scare me a little bit... There is just no way to avoid delivery at this point...

June 6, 2011 (week 27, day 5) - I had a prenatal appointment with Dr. Woolridge. This was an interesting appointment - I had to take the glucose test. I had to chug a drink that was basically all sugar in less than 5 minutes. Then I had to drive to the doctor's office - without getting sick - and have blood drawn. I did fine. I did not get sick. When the results came back (a few days later) we found out that I do not have gestational diabetes. We also found out that I am slightly anemic. Quick fix: I now take an iron supplement with my prenatal vitamins each night.

June 9, 2011 (week 28, day 1) - I had another child birth class. We finished talking about delivering the baby, and we got a little into newborn baby care and postpartum care for mommy. These classes are really helpful and informative, but kind of scary. They tend to spur some interesting conversations between me and Mom in the following days. This class ended with practicing some breathing techniques. I love this part because Mom rubs my back and helps me to relax. I tell her that we need to practice this more often - She doesn't agree.

June 15-18, 2011 (week 28, day 7-week 29, day 3) - Dad started a kettle corn business. He signed up to sell at a county fair, and I volunteered to help. It was incredibly hot outside, and I drank my weight in water each day. I enjoyed some fair food (but not much) and some popcorn! It was fun to spend time with my dad!

June 16, 2011 (week 29, day 1) - This was a big day. I met with Ryan at the mall. We talked for over an hour, but we didn't get much accomplished. He feels that he should only have to pay $300 a month in child support. He says that is all he can afford, and if he has to pay more he will have to move in with his parents. I told him that I would not settle for anything less than $600 a month. I wouldn't sign the document that Ryan brought. I cried, but Ryan was not mean during this meeting. I was a little surprised that he was not mean, but I think we both know that we are going to have to deal with each other for the rest of our lives. I know that I would like to handle this as civilly as possible, and I think that is what Ryan wants. That night I had another child birth class. This class was focused around c-sections. This class was full of questions, and in the end it created a long list of questions to ask Dr. Woolridge.

June 19, 2011 (week 29, day 4) - Father's Day! I was able to spend the day with my dad. I took him to his favorite restaurant - Texas de Brazil! It was so yummy, and it was great to spend time with my dad. This time next year he will not only be a dad, but a grandfather. I think this will bring me to a new appreciation of my parents. Not only will I know the joys and fears of being a parent, but seeing my parents in a role of loving my very own child will bring a new love to my heart!

June 20, 2011 (week 29, day 5) - I had a prenatal appointment with Dr. Woolridge. Everything is going well, and the baby is on track! My weight gain continues to fluctuate, but Dr. Woolridge is not too concerned. She says that it will average out over the whole pregnancy. I also took Dad to a RoughRiders game tonight. We sat on the third base line on the front row. It was a lot of fun - and we had to do it before it got too hot!

June 23, 2011 (week 30, day 1) - Mom and I attended the final Child Birth Class tonight. We talked in the classroom for a little bit, and the nurse answered any final questions. Then we all went over to the hospital and took a tour of the Labor and Delivery floor. The nurse showed us where to park, where to enter and where to go after that! We went up to the second floor - Labor and Delivery - and I was aMAZEd. First of all, let me just say that the walk to the rooms is a maze! It is the longest hallway that winds around and around! Anyways, she showed us the nursery (and a 3 hour old baby), the waiting room, and the LDR rooms. Then she showed us the rooms we would stay in for the remained of our hospital stay (2-4 nights, depending on delivery). She showed us the regular room - a hospital bed, a couch, a tv, a bathroom, etc. Then she showed us the next room - a hospital bed, a queen size murphy bed, a tv, a better bathroom, etc. This room costs $200 per night extra - insurance doesn't cover this! Then she showed us the "Super Bowl" room - a hospital bed, a HUGE bathroom (with a bidet), a living room, a full kitchen (minus the stove and oven, for obvious reasons), and a separate bedroom with a king sized bed. This suite is about 1,200 square feet (the same size as my apartment), and it costs an extra $350 per night (insurance doesn't cover that either)! Those rooms are amazing! They are all recently renovated - and absolutely beautiful! It really looks like a hotel! Here is a website that has pictures and 360 degree videos of the rooms - www.womenslinkplano.com/pregnancy-and-childbirth!

June 30-July 11, 2011 (week 31, day 1-week 32, day 5) - I was able to take a long trip to visit family in Pennsylvania. I spent a few days with some friends in Cape May. When it was time for me to go to Sea Isle City to spend time with my family at the shore, my grandmother had arranged for a small baby shower/luncheon. It was me, my grandmother, Suzie, and Erin - it was fabulous! I wish that my Aunt Lauren and Aunt Kathy were able to be there, but Lauren has 2 kids (and was getting ready to come to the shore) and Kathy was at home taking care of my Uncle Tim that was having heart surgery that week. They all sent gifts and I received tons of things that I am so grateful for. I am so thankful for all of the goodies that I received. We spent several days at the shore. They were great, for the most part - the air conditioner broke, then the sink, then the fridge. By the time it was time to leave the shore, I was ready! I went home with Matt and Lauren and the kids. We went to my Uncle Tom's annual party that afternoon. Dad and Brenda flew to Pennsylvania for the party. It was great to see some more family members. I was able to spend some time with Kathy, Josh, Tom, and several other family members. Uncle Tim was still at the hospital, since his surgery was a few days before the party. He was doing well, and I wish I was able to see him while I was there. The next morning, Dad, Brenda, and I drove down to the shore. We visited with Grammy, Aunt Ann, and our cousin Kathleen. We spent one night there, and then headed to the airport! Overall, it was a great visit, but it was hard being away from my parents for so long. Things got better when my dad came, but I missed my mom the entire time!

July 12, 2011 (week 32, day 6) - I had another prenatal appointment. Things are right on track, and the baby is growing! Nothing too exciting at this appointment!

July 13, 2011 (week 32, day 7) - I had an eye exam today. My vision has changed three times during this pregnancy, which means that I have to get new contacts so that I can see. Hopefully, my vision will change back to normal after the pregnancy, but it is what it is. I have no control over that part of my body!

July 20, 2011 (week 33, day 6) - This was a strange day. On July 19th, my great aunt, Carolyn, wrote on facebook that my great uncle, Cecil, was doing very well. On July 20th, Uncle Cecil died unexpectedly. My mom was very close to Uncle Cecil, and we were all surprised to find out this sad news.

July 22, 2011 (week 34, day 2) - Aunt Carolyn settled on the funeral and memorial services, and Mom decided that she had enough time to drive to Arkansas for the memorial service. The funeral service was planned for the next day, but Mom needed to be home with me the next day! Mom was glad she was able to go. I wish that I would have been able to go, but it was a short trip, and I was worried about traveling so much in a short period of time. Aunt Carolyn and the rest of the family understood why I was not able to attend, but I am glad Mom was able to go on my behalf.

July 23, 2011 (week 34, day 3) - Mom and Nanny woke up REALLY early (like 3:30am) to drive all the way back to Texas. I was having my baby shower today! I was at Jamie's house pretty early to help get everything ready for the party! The shower turned out great! SO many people came. It was great to see everyone, and have some time to catch up. We played several games - Baby Scattergories, a candy game, and Baby Gift Bingo. We also had a diaper raffle. Most of the girls at the shower brought a book to build the baby's library, and so many of them wrote sweet notes on the inside covers! The food was great - and my cupcake/cake vision turned out so perfect! Here are a few pictures of the cake/cupcakes. www.cakesbyjen.blogspot.com/2011/08/jungle-animal-baby-shower-cakecupcakes! They were delicious and absolutely perfect! The whole day was fabulous - and so special! Thanks Jamie - love you!

July 26, 2011 (week 34, day 6) - I had a sonogram today. This sonogram was different. The quality was not as good as my sonograms with Dr. Brown-Elliot, but Nanny was able to be there for my appointment. Nanny had never EVER seen a sonogram - and she was amazed! The technician estimated that the baby was 5 pounds, 14 ounces - and just perfect! After the sonogram, I had a prenatal appointment. During the sonogram, the technician confirmed that the baby was breech, so during my appointment with Dr. Woolridge we discussed a possible c-section. She said there was still time for him to turn, but I guessed that since he had been in the same place for several weeks, he was comfy and not turning anytime soon!

July 28, 2011 (week 35, day 1) - I took my EC-6 Generalist Exam this afternoon. I had spent several days studying for the exam, but I was super nervous. The test was on the computer, but I did not find out my results at the end of the test (like I had hoped). That afternoon, Mom, Nanny and I drove to Arkansas. We had to take Nanny home - even though we did not want to take her back! While we were in Arkansas, we helped Nanny do a few things around the house, and we were able to visit Aunt Carolyn. It was also good to see Papa before the baby is born.

July 30, 2011 (week 35, day 3) - While driving home from Arkansas, I received an email that said my exam scores were ready. I checked online - and I passed! I had to get an 80% on the exam - and I scored a 90%! I was so happy, relieved and proud. I called my dad and my grandparents. It was one more thing checked off on my to-do list in the journey to becoming a certified teacher! While driving home, we decided to stop in Jacksonville, AR to visit my friend, Cassie. She is having a little boy, and is due on September 17th! It was great to see her! We tried to see my grandmother in Little Rock, but she went out of town that morning!

August 7, 2011 (week 36, day 4) - A few of Mom's friends threw me a baby shower. It was so great to spend time with some women from church. We spent time talking about baby things, and I received some really practical gifts. I was so appreciative of the generosity of the women who threw the shower, as well as those women that attended the shower! (And the cake balls were so yummy!)

August 9, 2011 (week 36, day 6) - I found a lady that would do a 'Grow with me' photography package. I had maternity pictures done today. They turned out really well. It took me a little while to get comfortable, but after a while, I was fine! She is working on editing them, and I will get them posted as soon as possible.

August 11, 2011 (week 37, day 1) - I had a prenatal appointment with Dr. Woolridge. Everything looks like it is right on track. Dr. Woolridge did a quick ultrasound to confirm that the baby was still breech. He was - no question about it! We scheduled a c-section. I also had THREE PAGES of questions for Dr. Woolridge. I have never had any major medical procedures, so I am nervous about the surgery and recovery. Dr. Woolridge was able to answer all of my questions - so she passed the test! I am feeling better about the c-section, but I am still anxious and nervous!

August 17, 2011 (week 37, day 7) - I had a prenatal appointment scheduled with Dr. Woolridge. Mom and I were literally about to walk out the door to go to the appointment when the doctor's office called. The receptionist said that Dr. Woolridge was called into two emergency c-sections. My appointment had to be rescheduled. I also had my first pregnant emotional breakdown - but let's not talk about that!

August 19, 2011 (week 38, day 2) - I had rescheduled my last prenatal appointment for this afternoon. The doctor's office called in the morning and said that Dr. Woolridge had been called into another emergency c-section. I had to reschedule my appointment again!

August 22, 2011 (week 38, day 5) - I visited Burks Elementary school today. It was great to see all of the teachers and the kids that I worked with last year! They all look so much older! I also had my final prenatal appointment. Dr. Woolridge did another quick ultrasound, and the baby is still breech! She asked if I had any final questions about the c-section. I had a few, but she did a great job making me feel at peace with everything that will be happening on D-Day (delivery day)!

That brings us to today! I am counting down the hours until the baby gets here. I will say - I am nervous and anxious, but I am getting excited!

Come on Baby - the world is ready to meet you!