The day has finally come for us to leave paradise. Mommy and Tyler are both going to miss everyone (and the weather)! We are grateful that we got to visit and hope that everyone will miss us too. We will be back soon. We promise.
In the end, mommy had to borrow grandma Jenny's suitcase AND pack up 4 flat rate priority mail boxes just to get all of their things home.
Tyler was absolutely fabulous on the plane ride home. We were again able to bring on his car seat and he slept most of the way.
Daddy was very happy to see us! (and so were Hoku and Koa)
Monday, December 31, 2007
All better
WOOHOO! Tyler is all better now and is cleared for flying! We still have to do his nebulizer medicines 3 times a day until we see our pediatrician back in California, but at least we get to go home! Not that we don't like it here in Hawaii. Believe us ... we know the cold that is waiting for us when we get home. But Tyler misses his daddy and can't wait to see him.
Mommy re-booked our tickets and we are leaving tomorrow afternoon at 2:05 pm. There is so much to do in the meantime. Play with everyone as much as possible and pack. Time's a ticking!
Mommy re-booked our tickets and we are leaving tomorrow afternoon at 2:05 pm. There is so much to do in the meantime. Play with everyone as much as possible and pack. Time's a ticking!
After Christmas shopping
As much as mommy would have LOVED to buy lots and lots of things during the after Christmas sale, she couldn't. Just for fun, she tried packing her suitcase and already couldn't fit all of the stuff she brought PLUS all the gifts given to Tyler. Even so, that didn't stop her from going window shopping.
Grandma Jenny and mommy decided to check out Pearlridge. Poor Aunty Tammy was supposed to come too but work up feeling sick this morning and stayed home to rest. Despite not having room, mommy did buy a few things for herself. There are just certain sales that she couldn't pass up.
Tyler was doing much better today. He was still a little fussy, but his wheezing and congestion has definitely gotten better. Mommy has a good feeling about tomorrow's doctors appointment.
Back in California, daddy was spending his day back at work. Somebody has to pay for groceries! :P
Grandma Jenny and mommy decided to check out Pearlridge. Poor Aunty Tammy was supposed to come too but work up feeling sick this morning and stayed home to rest. Despite not having room, mommy did buy a few things for herself. There are just certain sales that she couldn't pass up.
Tyler was doing much better today. He was still a little fussy, but his wheezing and congestion has definitely gotten better. Mommy has a good feeling about tomorrow's doctors appointment.
Back in California, daddy was spending his day back at work. Somebody has to pay for groceries! :P
Christmas Day
Merry Christmas! Or Mele Kalikima, as they say here in Hawaii!
We miss you daddy! We hope you and Hoku and Koa are having a wondering Christmas in California!
Today we went to Grandma and Grandpa Kaitoku's house to Christmas lunch. This is the very first time the Kaitoku family didn't go to the Great Wall of China Restaurant. Grandpa wasn't feeling up to it this year, so we ordered all the food to go and met up at his house.
Tyler finally got to meet some of his cousins closer to his age. Kacen, Kyan, and Zayden. It was a fun time for him. Everyone took turns holding him. I don't think mommy held him at all. Instead she got to make gingerbread cookies. YUMMY!
We stayed for about 4 hours or so then had to head home for Tyler's medicine. It was long enough for Tyler to play, eat, and then fall sound asleep. Maybe, just maybe we will see them all again for New Years!
We miss you daddy! We hope you and Hoku and Koa are having a wondering Christmas in California!
Today we went to Grandma and Grandpa Kaitoku's house to Christmas lunch. This is the very first time the Kaitoku family didn't go to the Great Wall of China Restaurant. Grandpa wasn't feeling up to it this year, so we ordered all the food to go and met up at his house.
Tyler finally got to meet some of his cousins closer to his age. Kacen, Kyan, and Zayden. It was a fun time for him. Everyone took turns holding him. I don't think mommy held him at all. Instead she got to make gingerbread cookies. YUMMY!
We stayed for about 4 hours or so then had to head home for Tyler's medicine. It was long enough for Tyler to play, eat, and then fall sound asleep. Maybe, just maybe we will see them all again for New Years!
Christams Eve
It's beginning to look a lot like Christmas! Hahaha ... not really. In Hawaii you can barely tell its winter. No snow here. At least not where gma/gpa live. Besides seeing xmas lights on houses and xmas tress in windows it wouldn't be very obvious that Christmas is near.
We went to Tammy's house for Christmas Eve dinner with our family and Scott's family. There was a lot of yummy food. Tyler let Aunty Delia and Uncle Ed carry him for a while. We watched TV and opened gifts. Everyone got lots of cool stuff, especially Tyler. Mommy is going to have a fun time trying to pack all his goodies in her suitcase when she leaves. Since Tyler is a lap baby (doesn't have his own seat on the plane), he isn't allowed to bring any bags.
We went to Tammy's house for Christmas Eve dinner with our family and Scott's family. There was a lot of yummy food. Tyler let Aunty Delia and Uncle Ed carry him for a while. We watched TV and opened gifts. Everyone got lots of cool stuff, especially Tyler. Mommy is going to have a fun time trying to pack all his goodies in her suitcase when she leaves. Since Tyler is a lap baby (doesn't have his own seat on the plane), he isn't allowed to bring any bags.
2nd weekend
Another weekend in Hawaii! We've heard from daddy that the weather in California is COLD! Lucky for Tyler he gets to re-cooperate in the warm weather of Hawaii. It has been raining a bit, but he is still able to wear short sleeved onesies.
We spent most of our weekend doing some light shopping and playing with anyone and everyone who came to visit. Tyler loves attention and has definitely been getting a lot of it here. Hopefully he won't be too sad when back at home its only mommy and daddy.
We spent most of our weekend doing some light shopping and playing with anyone and everyone who came to visit. Tyler loves attention and has definitely been getting a lot of it here. Hopefully he won't be too sad when back at home its only mommy and daddy.
Sunday, December 23, 2007
Almost time to fly home?
The good news is that Tyler has gotten even better. The bad news is that he isn't well enough to fly home. The Dr. is worried about how he will do in the pressurized cabin of the airplane. So it looks like we have to EXTEND our trip. Being in Hawaii, this usually isn't a bad thing ... but with Daddy being in California, we are going to miss Christmas with him. :(
Mommy canceled the return flight and got a prescription refill for Tyler's medicines. Our next appointment is now, Thursday, December 27th, 2007 in which Dr. Fujimoto will check Tyler again to see if he can fly. We are now crossing both our fingers and toes. We don't want to miss New Years with daddy! :(
That evening Tyler had a few more visitors (Aunty Marsha, Uncle Norman ... I am drawing a blank on the others at the moment). They wanted to stop by before we left tomorrow. They didn't know that we couldn't go.
Mommy canceled the return flight and got a prescription refill for Tyler's medicines. Our next appointment is now, Thursday, December 27th, 2007 in which Dr. Fujimoto will check Tyler again to see if he can fly. We are now crossing both our fingers and toes. We don't want to miss New Years with daddy! :(
That evening Tyler had a few more visitors (Aunty Marsha, Uncle Norman ... I am drawing a blank on the others at the moment). They wanted to stop by before we left tomorrow. They didn't know that we couldn't go.
Grandma and Grandpa
Since Gma Jenny is off and Gma Stan is retired and already at home ... it was a perfect time for some Grandparent bonding. Mommy left Tyler with them and went off shopping (yes again!!) to Ala Moana with Tammy. She had specific instructions from Daddy to go and find herself a Christmas present, since he hadn't gotten her one yet. What a fun time! Mommy ended up with a nice chocolate brown Coach purse. WOOHOO!!
All went well back in Wahiawa with Tyler and Gma and Gpa. I don't even think Tyler missed mommy at all, lol. He loves talking with Gma and Gpa and especially likes when then play with him and his toys.
That evening Aunty Cindy and Uncle Gerry stopped by to visit Tyler. He was in a good mood and Aunty Cindy had fun holding him. Hopefully the medicine is still helping. We'll see at tomorrow's appointment.
All went well back in Wahiawa with Tyler and Gma and Gpa. I don't even think Tyler missed mommy at all, lol. He loves talking with Gma and Gpa and especially likes when then play with him and his toys.
That evening Aunty Cindy and Uncle Gerry stopped by to visit Tyler. He was in a good mood and Aunty Cindy had fun holding him. Hopefully the medicine is still helping. We'll see at tomorrow's appointment.
Mommy's turn
Mommy's congestion hasn't gotten any better. She had to resort to taking medicine. (so no more breastfeeding for now) Unfortunately the lack of breastfeeding won't make her milk supply problem any better. And because it was so heavy ... she didn't bring the breast pump with her. But not to worry. Tyler loves the formula, so it doesn't look like he will mind.
Tomorrow Grandma Jenny will be off of work again, so mommy and Tyler will be staying there again from tonight. We had a nice time at Aunty Tammy's and will definitely come back to stay again next time.
Tomorrow Grandma Jenny will be off of work again, so mommy and Tyler will be staying there again from tonight. We had a nice time at Aunty Tammy's and will definitely come back to stay again next time.
Follow up appointment
Since Tyler is sick, today (Tuesday, December 18th) we didn't do much. Went to Costco & Longs to get the rest of his prescription. Pretty much hung out at Aunty Tammy's house. It was nice to just relax. Mommy needs the rest. She woke up all congested and seems to be coming down with something herself.
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Tyler went back to see Dr. Fujimoto today (Wednesday, December 19th, 2007) for his follow up appointment. He weighed 12 lbs 13 ozs. :)
Although he is still congested and wheezing. Dr. said he has made great progress. The treatments are helping and we need to keep them up. More nubulizing for him. We want to get better before Christmas. One last appointment on Saturday before we leave on Sunday.
Since Tyler was feeling much better Aunty Tammy and mommy took him to Pearlridge again to do more shopping. He made things very easy by sleeping the entire time. :)
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Tyler went back to see Dr. Fujimoto today (Wednesday, December 19th, 2007) for his follow up appointment. He weighed 12 lbs 13 ozs. :)
Although he is still congested and wheezing. Dr. said he has made great progress. The treatments are helping and we need to keep them up. More nubulizing for him. We want to get better before Christmas. One last appointment on Saturday before we leave on Sunday.
Since Tyler was feeling much better Aunty Tammy and mommy took him to Pearlridge again to do more shopping. He made things very easy by sleeping the entire time. :)
Oh no, he's sick!
After calling a few pediatricians ... we finally got an appointment for Tyler today, Monday, December 17 at 3:10pm at Strab. They took all of our information and was able to bill our insurance! YAY! Don't get too excited. As mommy expected, Tyler IS sick. He has Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV). He is congested and is coughing and wheezing because of it.
Mommy had to buy him a Nebulizer machine to help him take his medicines, albuterol and pulmicort. The machine turns the liquid medicine into a mist, so Tyler can breathe it in. Adults would take these medicines with an inhaler.
I feel so bad for him. You can hear the mucus in him when he breathes and coughs, but he is too young to know how to cough it up and spit it out. Hopefully the medicine will do its job and help him. *fingers crossed*
Mommy had to buy him a Nebulizer machine to help him take his medicines, albuterol and pulmicort. The machine turns the liquid medicine into a mist, so Tyler can breathe it in. Adults would take these medicines with an inhaler.
I feel so bad for him. You can hear the mucus in him when he breathes and coughs, but he is too young to know how to cough it up and spit it out. Hopefully the medicine will do its job and help him. *fingers crossed*
Bye Bye Daddy!
Poor daddy had to pack up and leave today. We stuffed his suitcase with all sorts of goodies, most of them for Tyler. Mommy is hoping to be able to travel lightly, since she will be flying solo. Tyler didn't really know what was going on, but I know he is going to miss his daddy. It will be the first time that he will be away from him. We will have to call him everyday.
Tyler's cough seems to getting worse. Looks like we are going to have to take him to the doctor. I hope our insurance works well here. The last thing we need are more bills to pay, LOL.
Grandma Jenny is back at work tomorrow and instead Aunty Tammy took off to hang out with Tyler. We decided to stay a few days at her house, we packed up a few things and headed out there for the night. Zach visited again!
Tyler's cough seems to getting worse. Looks like we are going to have to take him to the doctor. I hope our insurance works well here. The last thing we need are more bills to pay, LOL.
Grandma Jenny is back at work tomorrow and instead Aunty Tammy took off to hang out with Tyler. We decided to stay a few days at her house, we packed up a few things and headed out there for the night. Zach visited again!
Even more family
Our big plans for today was dinner at Tammy's house again. (since I am writing this a tad bit late, for the life of me, I can't remember what we did during the day time at the moment.) This time we were to see my most of my dad's side of the family and a few of my mom's side that wasn't able to make dinner at Aunty Pat's.
It was too bad Tyler wasn't in a very good mood. He just recently started coughing a little and sounds a bit congested. He did let Aunty Ailene carry him for a while though. It's okay though, he wasn't the only baby there, although he was the youngest. We finally got to meet Zayden, who just turned 1 this past October. Oh, and Matthew was there again.
We ate dinner, took a bunch of pictures (which I'll be posting later) and ended the night with some good ole Texas Hold'em poker.
It was too bad Tyler wasn't in a very good mood. He just recently started coughing a little and sounds a bit congested. He did let Aunty Ailene carry him for a while though. It's okay though, he wasn't the only baby there, although he was the youngest. We finally got to meet Zayden, who just turned 1 this past October. Oh, and Matthew was there again.
We ate dinner, took a bunch of pictures (which I'll be posting later) and ended the night with some good ole Texas Hold'em poker.
Mommy's college buddies
Daddy only had a few things he wanted to do while in Hawaii. Eating at the shrimp truck MULTIPLE times were one of them. LOL So today (Friday, December 14th) ... we headed back down to the North Shore to pick up the Hot & Spicy and Garlic Scampi shrimp . We also made a quick pit stop to get some Malasada's ... yum!
Unfortunately for us, this trip which would normally take less than an hour round trip took us nearly 2 hours as there was construction on the one lane highway as we were coming back. The detour was horrible. It was stop and go traffic as bad as a Monday morning to work. It was very frustrating for mommy, who was driving, and very hungry.
After satisfying our bellies, we rested up at home for our "night" out. We met some of mommy's college buddies at a Japanese restaurant, Tadashi's. Everyone thought Tyler had gotten so big from the picture's they've seen. Only Aunty Cindy had seen him in person prior to this. Aunty Darci and Aunty Alisa both got to hold Tyler for a while, as he was in pretty good mood when we got there. Aunty Cindy and Uncle Dean weren't so lucky after dinner. By then he was a bit cranky and only daddy could calm him down. Till next year! (as I usually only see them once a year when I visit)
Unfortunately for us, this trip which would normally take less than an hour round trip took us nearly 2 hours as there was construction on the one lane highway as we were coming back. The detour was horrible. It was stop and go traffic as bad as a Monday morning to work. It was very frustrating for mommy, who was driving, and very hungry.
After satisfying our bellies, we rested up at home for our "night" out. We met some of mommy's college buddies at a Japanese restaurant, Tadashi's. Everyone thought Tyler had gotten so big from the picture's they've seen. Only Aunty Cindy had seen him in person prior to this. Aunty Darci and Aunty Alisa both got to hold Tyler for a while, as he was in pretty good mood when we got there. Aunty Cindy and Uncle Dean weren't so lucky after dinner. By then he was a bit cranky and only daddy could calm him down. Till next year! (as I usually only see them once a year when I visit)
Pictures with Santa (@ Ala Moana)
Because the Santa @ Pearlridge was so ugly, we went to see if there was a nicer looking one at Ala Moana today (Thursday, December 13th). We were in luck! Just what mommy was hoping for. Tyler didn't cry, but he didn't smile either. He was sporting his baby's first christmas shirt, although I don't think you can quite read it. Pictures to come.
We shopped around for a while and had lunch there at the mall. On the way home, we stopped off at Best Buy.
That night our friends Jan and Daniel came over to visit with their son Zachary. He's going to be 2 in January. Oh, the wonderful things we get to look forward too. He's very well behaved and is starting to talk. Very very cute!
We shopped around for a while and had lunch there at the mall. On the way home, we stopped off at Best Buy.
That night our friends Jan and Daniel came over to visit with their son Zachary. He's going to be 2 in January. Oh, the wonderful things we get to look forward too. He's very well behaved and is starting to talk. Very very cute!
Saturday, December 22, 2007
Aunty Pat's house
Wednesday night, we took Tyler to see more family. Aunty Pat has dinner at her house for her grandchildren every Wednesday ... so it was a great opportunity to see all of his cousins.
Tyler was surprisingly good for the amount of people that was there. He was held by Cousin Courtney, Aunty Karen, Aunty Traci, Aunty Rowena, and Aunty Pat. We had dinner and talked stories for the rest of the night. It was nice to see everyone. Even I haven't seen most of them in a while. Tyler also scored a few presents. :) Mommy was excited, since she is the one who will get to OPEN them. :P
Tyler was surprisingly good for the amount of people that was there. He was held by Cousin Courtney, Aunty Karen, Aunty Traci, Aunty Rowena, and Aunty Pat. We had dinner and talked stories for the rest of the night. It was nice to see everyone. Even I haven't seen most of them in a while. Tyler also scored a few presents. :) Mommy was excited, since she is the one who will get to OPEN them. :P
the Hawaiian Santa
G-ma Jenny took off the rest of the week to hang out with us and Tyler. We took him to see Santa @ Pearlridge (Wednesday December 12th). OMG! What an awful looking guy. He was NOT wearing the traditional red Santa Claus suit and instead was sporting some UGLY blue gaudy Hawaiian printed long sleeve shirt. I wished I took a picture ... but was definitely an EYE SORE. Needless to say, we did NOT take any pictures with him. Instead we did some light shopping and mommy got a long over due hair cut.
On our way home, we stopped off to visit Great Grandma and Grandpa Kaitoku. They were happy to see Tyler and even had a few of his pictures up. :D Tyler was in a good mood at smiled a lot at Great Grandma. She held him and we took some pictures before going home to rest for the day.
On our way home, we stopped off to visit Great Grandma and Grandpa Kaitoku. They were happy to see Tyler and even had a few of his pictures up. :D Tyler was in a good mood at smiled a lot at Great Grandma. She held him and we took some pictures before going home to rest for the day.
Cruising around & dinner at Tammy's
Today we took Tyler to Pearl City/Aiea. Daddy bought a few things at Best Buy and we met Marlene for lunch. Yummy sushi! I hope Tyler likes to eat Sushi. :) We eat a lot of different things, so hopefully he will be willing to try new things.
We cruised at home for the rest of the day as G-ma prepared dinner to bring to Aunty Tammy's. Scott's family (parents and sister/husband/soon to be baby) wanted to see Tyler. So it was back to Mililani that evening. He was a pretty good for the most part. A perfect day of relaxation.
We cruised at home for the rest of the day as G-ma prepared dinner to bring to Aunty Tammy's. Scott's family (parents and sister/husband/soon to be baby) wanted to see Tyler. So it was back to Mililani that evening. He was a pretty good for the most part. A perfect day of relaxation.
North Shore
We took Tyler to the North Shore on Monday, December 10th. What would be a better way to start his Hawaii vacation than a trip to the beach?
This was Tyler's first official "beach" visit. We carried him in the carrier at Sunset and took a few pictures and then pushed him around in his stroller at Haleiwa Beach Park (this is where they filmed Bay Watch Hawaii). It's too bad he's still too young to do anything or even remember any of this. But at least we have the pictures to prove that we took him! Daddy was also excited for this beach visit because it was the first time he'd actually get to see some waves more than a foot or 2. We usually come to Hawaii in the summer when the surf is flat. Too bad it wasn't that high ... maybe 4 - 6 feet. But that might have even been pushing it. Guess we'll have to see if we can stop by sometime again later this week.
Not to worry ... daddy was also looking forward to something else while at the North Shore. One of his MUST eat at places is the Giovanni shrimp truck. YUM-O! It's a bit pricey, but well worth it.
Back at home we had a few visitors. Great Grandma Abear, Aunty Yvonne, Aunty Cheryl , cousin Matthew, Jan, Daniel, and Zach all came to see Tyler. Everyone got to hold him ... even Matthew (age 4) with some help. The picture of him doing this is cute. He's all smiles, but Tyler is crying. LOL
This was Tyler's first official "beach" visit. We carried him in the carrier at Sunset and took a few pictures and then pushed him around in his stroller at Haleiwa Beach Park (this is where they filmed Bay Watch Hawaii). It's too bad he's still too young to do anything or even remember any of this. But at least we have the pictures to prove that we took him! Daddy was also excited for this beach visit because it was the first time he'd actually get to see some waves more than a foot or 2. We usually come to Hawaii in the summer when the surf is flat. Too bad it wasn't that high ... maybe 4 - 6 feet. But that might have even been pushing it. Guess we'll have to see if we can stop by sometime again later this week.
Not to worry ... daddy was also looking forward to something else while at the North Shore. One of his MUST eat at places is the Giovanni shrimp truck. YUM-O! It's a bit pricey, but well worth it.
Back at home we had a few visitors. Great Grandma Abear, Aunty Yvonne, Aunty Cheryl , cousin Matthew, Jan, Daniel, and Zach all came to see Tyler. Everyone got to hold him ... even Matthew (age 4) with some help. The picture of him doing this is cute. He's all smiles, but Tyler is crying. LOL
ALOHA from Hawaii!
Aunty Tammy and Uncle Scott came to pick us up from the airport. It was pretty hot and humid as soon as we stepped off the plane. Tyler was quickly stripped out of his long sleeve sleeper and was comfortable cruising in just a shirt and a diaper, which was a first for him. (with the winter cold in California, he can't do that at home).
Our first stop was to pick up some ONO grinds at Mililani Restaurant and then it was off Aunty Tammy and Uncle Scott's new house in Mililani Mauka. Their house is very cozy and decorated with a lot of Winnie the Poohs. Poor Uncle Scott!
After pigging out we all took a short nap and then went to Wal Mart to get some essentials (diapers, formula, and wipes) for Tyler. Then for our final stop for the day, Grandpa and Grandma's house in Wahiawa.
Aunty Kristy greeted us with her friend KC. Grandma and Grandpa weren't home. We got settled and had dinner (@ Zippy's, lol) before they finally arrived. It wasn't easy to tell whether or not Tyler remembered Grandma Jenny, but she surely remembered him. This was Grandpa Stan's first time seeing him. Aunty Marsha and Uncle Norman (who dropped of Grandma Jenny) came in for a quick peek. Everyone was all smiles. :)
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Our first stop was to pick up some ONO grinds at Mililani Restaurant and then it was off Aunty Tammy and Uncle Scott's new house in Mililani Mauka. Their house is very cozy and decorated with a lot of Winnie the Poohs. Poor Uncle Scott!
After pigging out we all took a short nap and then went to Wal Mart to get some essentials (diapers, formula, and wipes) for Tyler. Then for our final stop for the day, Grandpa and Grandma's house in Wahiawa.
Aunty Kristy greeted us with her friend KC. Grandma and Grandpa weren't home. We got settled and had dinner (@ Zippy's, lol) before they finally arrived. It wasn't easy to tell whether or not Tyler remembered Grandma Jenny, but she surely remembered him. This was Grandpa Stan's first time seeing him. Aunty Marsha and Uncle Norman (who dropped of Grandma Jenny) came in for a quick peek. Everyone was all smiles. :)
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Sunday, December 9, 2007
First Airplane Ride
Happy Holidays!
Tyler is going on his first plane ride today. We are hoping for the best ... whatever that means. :P Hopefully we will get to update this while we are in Hawaii. If not, see you in 2 weeks!
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Tyler's first plane ride was a success. We lucked out and were able to bring his car seat on the airplane because the flight wasn't full. So he got to sit between mommy and daddy in the middle row of the 767. :)
We had to make him suck on the pacifier or bottle during both take off and landing to help with the pressure (mostly for his ears). He actually slept most of the time in the car seat. Daddy and mommy took turns holding him at the end of the flight when we woke up and got a bit restless. He didn't cry, to our surprise. Hopefully mommy will be just a lucky on her return trip in which she is flying solo.
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Tyler is going on his first plane ride today. We are hoping for the best ... whatever that means. :P Hopefully we will get to update this while we are in Hawaii. If not, see you in 2 weeks!
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Tyler's first plane ride was a success. We lucked out and were able to bring his car seat on the airplane because the flight wasn't full. So he got to sit between mommy and daddy in the middle row of the 767. :)
We had to make him suck on the pacifier or bottle during both take off and landing to help with the pressure (mostly for his ears). He actually slept most of the time in the car seat. Daddy and mommy took turns holding him at the end of the flight when we woke up and got a bit restless. He didn't cry, to our surprise. Hopefully mommy will be just a lucky on her return trip in which she is flying solo.
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Tuesday, November 27, 2007
Friday, November 23, 2007
First road trip
On "Black Friday", instead of going shopping the thanksgiving gang drove up to Napa Valley. It was a long drive, even for me. Tyler slept most of the ride and woke up to eat as he usually does. We had a nice lunch in downtown Napa and then went to visit the Robert Mondavi winery. Grandpa and Great Grandma Rex did a wine tasting, while Brad, Tyler, and myself just walked around enjoying the sites. Wine season was already over though ... so there weren't many grapes to see. LOL
Happy Thanksgiving!
Sorry it's been awhile. Tyler has been keeping my hands busier than normal these days.
But enough about that. I hope you all had a happy thanksgiving. :)
We had special guest in town for Tyler's very first Thanksgiving. Great Grandma and Grandpa Rex drove in from Arizona. They were very very excited to see baby Tyler for the first time. Luckily Tyler was on his best behavior and didn't fuss much when being passed around for some cuddling time.
Mommy and daddy whipped up quite a spread ... turkey, stuffing, mashed potatoes, gravy, biscuits, and even some veggies. YUM-O! (yes, I did steal that from Rachael Ray)
We all had a great evening! Here's a few pics. Mommy is the photographer, so she isn't in any. :(
But enough about that. I hope you all had a happy thanksgiving. :)
We had special guest in town for Tyler's very first Thanksgiving. Great Grandma and Grandpa Rex drove in from Arizona. They were very very excited to see baby Tyler for the first time. Luckily Tyler was on his best behavior and didn't fuss much when being passed around for some cuddling time.
Mommy and daddy whipped up quite a spread ... turkey, stuffing, mashed potatoes, gravy, biscuits, and even some veggies. YUM-O! (yes, I did steal that from Rachael Ray)
We all had a great evening! Here's a few pics. Mommy is the photographer, so she isn't in any. :(
Tuesday, November 13, 2007
Aunty Wendy
Aunty Wendy came over to visit a bunch of times this week. And boy did she experience a lot. She helped feed me, bathe me, cuddle with me, and even changed my poopy diapers. I peed on her on accident, but she wasn't mad because she knows that I didn't do it on purpose. We had a lot of fun together. Mommy even got to take a nap one of the afternoons. A well deserved one, she keeps telling me. :P Anyway ... I can't wait till Aunty Wendy has a baby, so I can have a playmate.
2 month old checkup and vaccinations
Tyler went to the doctor for his 2 month check up. He is doing very very good. No ear infection in sight and he is now on the curve for all 3 measurements (length, head circumference, and weight). He is now a good 9 lbs and 11 ozs. My arms are slowly showing the pain. LOL
Tyler did well considering the 4 vaccinations he got. He screamed during all of them, but calmed down fairly quickly. We got to give him some children's tylenol for the rest of the day to help him with the pain. Poor guy. His next appointment and set of shots isn't until January.
Tyler did well considering the 4 vaccinations he got. He screamed during all of them, but calmed down fairly quickly. We got to give him some children's tylenol for the rest of the day to help him with the pain. Poor guy. His next appointment and set of shots isn't until January.
Fun filled week and weekend
Tyler surely did a lot this past week/weekend.
On Monday Aunty Vicky fed him. He can actually eat 3.5 ozs in one sitting now.
He started pulling mommy's hair! :(
On Thursday he was held by Uncle Brian and Aunty Sylvia. He did really well at their house during the dinner. Day and night, that boy. He shows off at other people's houses, but cries like crazy at home. LOL
On Friday Tyler met a lot of new people at Aunty Vicky's. Caly and Juang were in town and we had a small dinner gathering. There were so many other babies there. Noelle, Noah, Bryan, Rachael, and Haylie. So cute! Tyler was the youngest. Everyone googled at him as he slept. He only woke up to eat (again).
On Monday Aunty Vicky fed him. He can actually eat 3.5 ozs in one sitting now.
He started pulling mommy's hair! :(
On Thursday he was held by Uncle Brian and Aunty Sylvia. He did really well at their house during the dinner. Day and night, that boy. He shows off at other people's houses, but cries like crazy at home. LOL
On Friday Tyler met a lot of new people at Aunty Vicky's. Caly and Juang were in town and we had a small dinner gathering. There were so many other babies there. Noelle, Noah, Bryan, Rachael, and Haylie. So cute! Tyler was the youngest. Everyone googled at him as he slept. He only woke up to eat (again).
Monday, November 5, 2007
More friends
On Friday Tyler went to visit Andrew, Kathleen, Vu, Polly, Jay, Tracy, and Patrick. Andrew is very energetic and vocal and was very interested in Tyler. He liked looking at the baby. Tyler was a big hit. As always, the biggest question was ... who does Tyler look like? LOL It still seems it is too early to tell. Didn't matter, Aunty Polly and Tracy still "oohed and awed" at him. What a stud! :)
On Saturday Tyler went to visit Evan, Ed, and Lennie down in Gilroy. Evan is turning 1 in December and is learning how to walk. Evan was also very interested in Tyler and wanted to touch him, but his mommy wouldn't let him because Tyler was sleeping. Soon enough they will get to play. Aunty Lennie held Tyler for the first time today. He was still in the NICU the last time she saw him. She was amazed at how big he has gotten.
On Saturday Tyler went to visit Evan, Ed, and Lennie down in Gilroy. Evan is turning 1 in December and is learning how to walk. Evan was also very interested in Tyler and wanted to touch him, but his mommy wouldn't let him because Tyler was sleeping. Soon enough they will get to play. Aunty Lennie held Tyler for the first time today. He was still in the NICU the last time she saw him. She was amazed at how big he has gotten.
Saturday, November 3, 2007
2 months old
Baby Tyler is already 2 months old. He is observing and learning new things everyday. Mommy sings and reads to him daily. He also gets to sit in his swing and bouncer while listening to children's music. Tyler likes to look around and will often just stare at you. Especially when you are feeding him. It's so cute! He over exaggerates when he stretches and when he has to go poo. His noises are getting louder and more distinct.
On a good day, he cries very little. Mostly when he wakes up and wants to eat. Not to jinx us, but only on occasion does he cry for no apparent reason. (knock on wood) Tyler is eating a little more now. He can take 3.5 oz, but typically still eats 3 oz every 2 - 3 hours. He still gets 2 feedings of lactose free formula because mommy can't produce enough breast milk. Don't get her started on this topic... she is VERY bitter and sad about that.
With mommy running the show solo nowadays, the two-some usually go out every other day. Mostly to run errands or just walk around the mall. It's been rather chilly out and they haven't yet had a chance to use their new jogger from Aunty Cindy. Hopefully one day soon.
Mommy is actually waiting for Tyler to get a tad bit bigger so he can fit into the Baby Bjorn carrier from Aunty Alana. She will then be able to get much more done around the house, since her hands will be free. At least, that's the hope.
On a good day, he cries very little. Mostly when he wakes up and wants to eat. Not to jinx us, but only on occasion does he cry for no apparent reason. (knock on wood) Tyler is eating a little more now. He can take 3.5 oz, but typically still eats 3 oz every 2 - 3 hours. He still gets 2 feedings of lactose free formula because mommy can't produce enough breast milk. Don't get her started on this topic... she is VERY bitter and sad about that.
With mommy running the show solo nowadays, the two-some usually go out every other day. Mostly to run errands or just walk around the mall. It's been rather chilly out and they haven't yet had a chance to use their new jogger from Aunty Cindy. Hopefully one day soon.
Mommy is actually waiting for Tyler to get a tad bit bigger so he can fit into the Baby Bjorn carrier from Aunty Alana. She will then be able to get much more done around the house, since her hands will be free. At least, that's the hope.
Thursday, November 1, 2007
Happy Halloween!
Mommy and Tyler went to Santana Row for the Mommy and Me Halloween event. It was very crowded and quite cold out. As usual Tyler slept for most of it with the exception of 30 minutes in which he ate lunch! Not sure if you can see in the group picture but Haylie was dressed as snow white and Jayden was a monkey.
On the night of Halloween we went to a small event put on by the San Jose Giants. It was more geared towards older children as it had face painting, pumpkin decorating, balloon making, and lots of games. Tyler dressed up as Tigger. It was SO CUTE! It was really cold out so we didn't stay for long. At least mommy and daddy got some free candy!
On the night of Halloween we went to a small event put on by the San Jose Giants. It was more geared towards older children as it had face painting, pumpkin decorating, balloon making, and lots of games. Tyler dressed up as Tigger. It was SO CUTE! It was really cold out so we didn't stay for long. At least mommy and daddy got some free candy!
Wednesday, October 31, 2007
Earthquake
Whoa! I am only 7 weeks old and I have already been through my first earthquake. My mommy says I was sleeping peacefully in my bassinet when the entire house started shaking. Hoku and Koa started barking like crazy and a few things fell on the ground. We all quickly huddled under the nearest doorway and waited it out. It lasted a good 15 seconds or so (we think). It was quite scary and we were all glad when it was over. Turns out it was a 5.6 and actually happened in San Jose!
Monday, October 29, 2007
Good bye Aunty Cindy, Hello formula
Aunty Cindy left bright and early this morning. :( We did a lot of things while she was here. We went shopping, walking, took lots and lots of pictures, ate, burped, changed diapers, and just hung out and had some fun. Tyler will miss her and hopes he will see her again soon. He is also asking when he will have a "cousin" playmate. :P
Despite all my efforts, my milk supply seems to be diminishing. We finally had to break down and introduce formula today. Per our Dr's recommendation we are trying Enfamil. Tyler doesn't seem to know the difference. He eats just as fast and like a piggy. Every 2 - 3 hours about 3 ozs. Feeding him is actually faster now (via bottle), it still takes a good 30 minutes + via breast. Our plan is to use the formula only when needed. I am still breastfeeding and pumping in hopes my milk will kick it into high gear one of these days.
Here's a bunch of pictures ... from Cindy!
Despite all my efforts, my milk supply seems to be diminishing. We finally had to break down and introduce formula today. Per our Dr's recommendation we are trying Enfamil. Tyler doesn't seem to know the difference. He eats just as fast and like a piggy. Every 2 - 3 hours about 3 ozs. Feeding him is actually faster now (via bottle), it still takes a good 30 minutes + via breast. Our plan is to use the formula only when needed. I am still breastfeeding and pumping in hopes my milk will kick it into high gear one of these days.
Here's a bunch of pictures ... from Cindy!
Saturday, October 27, 2007
Party hardy and Daddy day
On Saturday, we hosted our first gathering since Tyler's arrival. It was the first time a lot of our friends saw Tyler. The coolest visitors for him were Brayden (4 months), Haylie (1 year), and Jayden (2 months). Not that they can really play ... but it was just cool to have them all together. Who knows, maybe they do talk in a baby language that we can't understand.
For the most part the babies kept everyone occupied. The grown ups did get a chance to catch up, something we don't get to do enough. I must say ... our get togethers have definitely changed. Especially conversation topics! I am always learning something new being the "newbie" mom of the group. Keep the advice coming ladies! :P
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Sunday was reserved for a girls shopping day and daddy bonding time. Tyler spent the entire day with daddy. A good 8 - 9 hours. From what I found out, they watched a lot of sports. Football, baseball, and even racing! Daddy took him out to get lunch and do some light shopping and even gave him a bath by himself for the very first time. I can't speak for daddy, but it looks like they had a lot of fun together. (he has access to this and can add more if he wants)
For the most part the babies kept everyone occupied. The grown ups did get a chance to catch up, something we don't get to do enough. I must say ... our get togethers have definitely changed. Especially conversation topics! I am always learning something new being the "newbie" mom of the group. Keep the advice coming ladies! :P
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Sunday was reserved for a girls shopping day and daddy bonding time. Tyler spent the entire day with daddy. A good 8 - 9 hours. From what I found out, they watched a lot of sports. Football, baseball, and even racing! Daddy took him out to get lunch and do some light shopping and even gave him a bath by himself for the very first time. I can't speak for daddy, but it looks like they had a lot of fun together. (he has access to this and can add more if he wants)
Friday, October 26, 2007
Almost halloween and Aunty Cindy's visit
Aunty Cindy arrived on Wednesday night. We are surely going to have lots of fun with her! Rumor has it she is going to get us a pretty cool baby shower gift. Can't wait!
Tyler went to yet another doctor's appointment yesterday (Thursday). His ear infection is completely gone! However, he still has reflux and we are trying a medication to see if it helps. If all goes well it should help him spit up less and help to prevent future ear infections. He now weighs in at 7 lbs and 15 ozs. His eating has increased and mommy is afraid she won't be able to keep up with her milk supply. We have formula standing by just incase. Hopefully we won't have to use it soon, but we'll see.
We haven't yet decided what we are doing on Halloween, but Tyler does have a costume. He is going to be Tigger! The costume is a bit big, but should be CUTE!
Tyler went to yet another doctor's appointment yesterday (Thursday). His ear infection is completely gone! However, he still has reflux and we are trying a medication to see if it helps. If all goes well it should help him spit up less and help to prevent future ear infections. He now weighs in at 7 lbs and 15 ozs. His eating has increased and mommy is afraid she won't be able to keep up with her milk supply. We have formula standing by just incase. Hopefully we won't have to use it soon, but we'll see.
We haven't yet decided what we are doing on Halloween, but Tyler does have a costume. He is going to be Tigger! The costume is a bit big, but should be CUTE!
Sunday, October 21, 2007
More Pics & Bye Bye Gma Rex
I know, I know ... it's been a while. Forgive me as motherhood has made me lazy. Pft ... not lazy, just busier with other things to do which leaves less time for playing on the computer. :P
Gma Rex will be leaving on Tuesday. Hopefully we can do more on her next visit.
Gma Rex will be leaving on Tuesday. Hopefully we can do more on her next visit.
3rd Year Wedding Anniversay
Today is our 3rd year wedding anniversary! WOOHOO! Has it already been that long? :)
Lucky for us Grandma Rex is still here and will be baby sitting Tyler while we get away for a few hours to have dinner.
More to come ...
Lucky for us Grandma Rex is still here and will be baby sitting Tyler while we get away for a few hours to have dinner.
More to come ...
Official Due Date
Saturday, October 20th 2007 was Tyler's official due date. Mommy can't imagine having still being pregnant until now. She would have probably gained another good 10 - 15 lbs! *whew* Who knows how much extra weight she would have had to lose in that case. The 10 lbs baby "fat" she has on now is already gonna be a challenge. LOL
Tyler loves being held and cuddled. It's relatively easy to rock him to sleep in our arms. The hard part is putting him down without waking him up! He could be asleep for at least a good 30 minutes sometimes even an hour ... but the moment you put him down he's like "hello"! On the bright side, when he is wide awake, Tyler is a lot more alert. He turns his head a lot more and seems to be taking in his surroundings. He also starting to make some babbling sounds too. It's really cute! I've been trying to get in a lot of tummy time so he can practice moving his head and strengthening his neck. At the same time he is also kicking his feet sometimes getting himself almost up on his knees. He seems to enjoy it for a good 10 - 15 minutes then will usually get a bit frustrated.
It is so amazing to see him learn all these new things. I can see why everyone says they will grow up fast. I'm looking forward to all of it!
Tyler loves being held and cuddled. It's relatively easy to rock him to sleep in our arms. The hard part is putting him down without waking him up! He could be asleep for at least a good 30 minutes sometimes even an hour ... but the moment you put him down he's like "hello"! On the bright side, when he is wide awake, Tyler is a lot more alert. He turns his head a lot more and seems to be taking in his surroundings. He also starting to make some babbling sounds too. It's really cute! I've been trying to get in a lot of tummy time so he can practice moving his head and strengthening his neck. At the same time he is also kicking his feet sometimes getting himself almost up on his knees. He seems to enjoy it for a good 10 - 15 minutes then will usually get a bit frustrated.
It is so amazing to see him learn all these new things. I can see why everyone says they will grow up fast. I'm looking forward to all of it!
Thursday, October 11, 2007
Getting better?
Tyler has seemed to have been doing better since our last doctor's appointment on Saturday. He's been sleeping a little more and spitting up a little less ... until today. :( He started spitting up after every feeding and fusses more than usual. Sleeps perfectly fine while you are carrying him and then wakes up crying once you put him down.
At today's appointment (10/17) we found out that poor Tyler has gotten the ear infection back in his left ear. :( He screamed when getting the wax removed and during the antibiotic shot. It was heart breaking. It's so hard to see him in pain and not be able to take it away. As much as I comfort him, I can tell he's not a happy camper. As usual, we have a follow up appointment ... so we shall see his progress tomorrow. Chances are he will need another shot.
On a happier note, despite the spitting up ... he has still managed to gain weight and now weighs 7 lbs and 2 ozs.
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Tyler's ear infection is still here (10/18). The antibiotic isn't working as fast as it did last time. He got another shot today and will get one until Saturday. :( Luckily he isn't as fussy. He spits up once in a while, but not as often nor as much. Such a trooper though ... he is now 7 lbs and 4 ozs.
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Another shot down (10/19) and 1 more to do. 7 lbs and 6 ozs. Because Tyler is sick, we haen't been able to do much with Gma Rex. We've stayed home all week so far and basically take care of Tyler ans watch TV all day. Gma Rex has also been cooking up some delicious Korean food!
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Last shot of this series taken like a champ (10/20). 7 lbs and 8 ozs. Tyler is now over is ear infection ... but still has a slight cold with some congestion. Hopefully he will get over it soon and be all better. Mommy and daddy can't wait for the fussiness to go away. :P
At today's appointment (10/17) we found out that poor Tyler has gotten the ear infection back in his left ear. :( He screamed when getting the wax removed and during the antibiotic shot. It was heart breaking. It's so hard to see him in pain and not be able to take it away. As much as I comfort him, I can tell he's not a happy camper. As usual, we have a follow up appointment ... so we shall see his progress tomorrow. Chances are he will need another shot.
On a happier note, despite the spitting up ... he has still managed to gain weight and now weighs 7 lbs and 2 ozs.
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Tyler's ear infection is still here (10/18). The antibiotic isn't working as fast as it did last time. He got another shot today and will get one until Saturday. :( Luckily he isn't as fussy. He spits up once in a while, but not as often nor as much. Such a trooper though ... he is now 7 lbs and 4 ozs.
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Another shot down (10/19) and 1 more to do. 7 lbs and 6 ozs. Because Tyler is sick, we haen't been able to do much with Gma Rex. We've stayed home all week so far and basically take care of Tyler ans watch TV all day. Gma Rex has also been cooking up some delicious Korean food!
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Last shot of this series taken like a champ (10/20). 7 lbs and 8 ozs. Tyler is now over is ear infection ... but still has a slight cold with some congestion. Hopefully he will get over it soon and be all better. Mommy and daddy can't wait for the fussiness to go away. :P
Tuesday, October 9, 2007
Ear Infection and Gma Rex
Tyler has been a bit fussier since this weekend. He also started spitting up more often than normal. Mommy was a bit worried and took him to the doctor today (Tuesday, 10/9). Turns out Tyler has an acute ear infection. :( We're not sure how he got it, but the pressure in his ears has been making him uncomfortable. Dr. O cleaned out some ear wax and Tyler got an antibiotic shot in the leg. Even if he was very brave, he cried really really loud. Mommy wanted to cry with him. He has a follow up appointment tomorrow. On a totally different topic, Tyler now weighs 6 lbs and 7 ozs.
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The follow up appointment (10/10) went well. Dr. O said that the antibiotics helped out a lot and his ear looks much better. Unfortunately for Tyler, had to get another antibiotic shot. Supposedly it is better and easier this way, rather than us trying to give it to him orally. On a side note, Dr. O informed us that back in the day when he first started medical school (i want to say at least 15 - 20 years ago) an infant less than 3 months with an ear infection use to be immediately hospitalized. But now with modern medicine that is no longer necessary. *whew* He gained an ounce since yesterday and we have one last appointment tomorrow.
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Whoa, Tyler weighed 6 lbs 13 ozs today (10/11). His ear infection is clearing up nicely. He got his (hopefully) last antibiotic shot today and we scheduled a follow up for the 17th. We just need to monitor him to make sure he doesn't relapse. Dr. O says he is responding to the treatment well and doesn't think that will happen. We may be able to say good bye to his very first illness.
On a different topic ... Grandma Rex flew in this afternoon and will be staying with us for about a week and a half. Hopefully Tyler is all better and we can have some fun.
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Today (10/12), we had to drive daddy into work. The GTI is getting its 80k mile service. We took Gma Rex to the Korean video store and went to check out Babies R Us. Tyler got a bunch of things. Thanks Gma Rex!
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Tyler still wasn't himself by Saturday (10/13), so we took him to the doctor again. The ear infection is clearing up nicely, but the cold that started it is still lingering around. His stomach is always making crazy noises and he started to spit up a little again and has diarrhea. Dr O gave him a benadryl shot to help with the spitting and we had to get pedialyte (baby gatorade) to help with the diarrhea. Hopefully this all works. Next appointment is Wednesday, 10/17.
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The follow up appointment (10/10) went well. Dr. O said that the antibiotics helped out a lot and his ear looks much better. Unfortunately for Tyler, had to get another antibiotic shot. Supposedly it is better and easier this way, rather than us trying to give it to him orally. On a side note, Dr. O informed us that back in the day when he first started medical school (i want to say at least 15 - 20 years ago) an infant less than 3 months with an ear infection use to be immediately hospitalized. But now with modern medicine that is no longer necessary. *whew* He gained an ounce since yesterday and we have one last appointment tomorrow.
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Whoa, Tyler weighed 6 lbs 13 ozs today (10/11). His ear infection is clearing up nicely. He got his (hopefully) last antibiotic shot today and we scheduled a follow up for the 17th. We just need to monitor him to make sure he doesn't relapse. Dr. O says he is responding to the treatment well and doesn't think that will happen. We may be able to say good bye to his very first illness.
On a different topic ... Grandma Rex flew in this afternoon and will be staying with us for about a week and a half. Hopefully Tyler is all better and we can have some fun.
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Today (10/12), we had to drive daddy into work. The GTI is getting its 80k mile service. We took Gma Rex to the Korean video store and went to check out Babies R Us. Tyler got a bunch of things. Thanks Gma Rex!
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Tyler still wasn't himself by Saturday (10/13), so we took him to the doctor again. The ear infection is clearing up nicely, but the cold that started it is still lingering around. His stomach is always making crazy noises and he started to spit up a little again and has diarrhea. Dr O gave him a benadryl shot to help with the spitting and we had to get pedialyte (baby gatorade) to help with the diarrhea. Hopefully this all works. Next appointment is Wednesday, 10/17.
Bye Bye Grandma Jenny
Grandma Jenny left for Hawaii this morning. :( Tyler had a lot of fun with her and will miss her lots. She bought him lots of things and had a special way of holding him upright that would almost instantly make him stop crying. (mommy is not so good at it yet) Tyler hopes she will come back and visit him again. Now mommy will have to do her own laundry and cook food ... on top of changing, feeding, pumping, trying to nap, and once in a while entertaining the dogs. Is that even possible?!?!
Anyway ... mommy will only get to see how she does with Tyler all by herself for the next 2 days since Grandma Rex will be flying in on Thursday for a visit. Mommy is a bit nervous, but daddy assures her she will do just fine. :)
Sunday, October 7, 2007
Wicket's Birthday Party
Tyler went on his first house visit to the Murakami's for Wicket's (our 4 legged Shih Tzu friend) 1st birthday party. Tyler has been a little fussy lately so we fed him before we left so he would sleep. Worked like a charm! As usual, he woke up to eat and I believe we did 2 diaper changes. Aunty Vicky even did ONE of them! Who would have thought. Uncle Clay was a bit smarter and just carried Tyler for a while. I wonder if it was enough to entice them to have another one. Haylie (their daughter) is already 1 and could use a playmate soon. :P
As for the "dog" part of the dog party. Hoku and Koa had lots of fun playing with Wicket, Tootsie, and PePe. Koa played fetch and Hoku enjoyed the pool. The dogs even had a special doggie cake, in which Hoku stole Wicket's! She loves food, who can blame her. Us 2 legged peeps ate some local food cooked up by the parents. ONO-licious!
As for the "dog" part of the dog party. Hoku and Koa had lots of fun playing with Wicket, Tootsie, and PePe. Koa played fetch and Hoku enjoyed the pool. The dogs even had a special doggie cake, in which Hoku stole Wicket's! She loves food, who can blame her. Us 2 legged peeps ate some local food cooked up by the parents. ONO-licious!
Friday, October 5, 2007
1 month old
It's really hard to believe that Tyler is already 1 month old. In such a short time he has brought so much joy to our lives. :)
He still eats about 8 times a day, but now takes a little more milk (almost 2 1/2 ounces) at each feeding. I am a little sad that he is no longer latching on well to the bare breast anymore. He pretty much refuses it and pushes it away. It breaks my heart! He'll take it with the shield on, but will typically fall asleep half way through and when I try to lay him down to sleep he'll wake up and cry and still be hungry. By this time I'm usually pretty frustrated, so I just offer him some milk via bottle. I'd really like to be able to breastfeed, but it seems him just might not like it. I'm still trying for now and will probably schedule an appointment with a lactation specialist to see what more I can do if anything.
Tyler stays awake for longer periods of time now. Instead of instantly falling asleep after eating, there now seems to be a 50/50% chance he'll stay up. He likes to look around at shadows and light. His eyes will follow voices. He has started to flares his arms and kicks his legs a lot more and has even started to stick his tongue out once in a while. He likes to sit in his rocker with the vibration mode on and we've recently started putting him in a swing, which he also seems to like.
It is now apparent that he doesn't really enjoy bath time yet unless you catch him in a very very good mood. And he like most babies doesn't like diaper change time. :P
Monday, October 1, 2007
Shopping, shopping and more shopping!
What a guy! Tyler has been such a good sport and has been doing a lot of shopping with mommy and Grandma Jenny. In the past couple of weeks he has been to Oak Ridge Mall, Valley Fair Mall, Westgate Mall, The Great Mall, Stanford Mall ... just to name a few. He just loves being pushed in his stroller. For the most part, he is sleeping ... but when he is awake he doesn't usually fuss much, unless its time for him to eat.
Everyone who sees him says how cute he is! Such a stud already! I still am not sure whose features he has ... but the combination works. He is adorable. I just love watching him. He'll make random faces on a whim, its very very cute.
I'm still working on getting more pictures when he is smiling or even when he is wide awake and actually looking at the camera. It's harder than one would think. :P (hence the lack of pictures lately)
Everyone who sees him says how cute he is! Such a stud already! I still am not sure whose features he has ... but the combination works. He is adorable. I just love watching him. He'll make random faces on a whim, its very very cute.
I'm still working on getting more pictures when he is smiling or even when he is wide awake and actually looking at the camera. It's harder than one would think. :P (hence the lack of pictures lately)
Sunday, September 30, 2007
Time with Daddy
Daddy had already committed to an all day golf tourney at Poppy Hills today (Sunday, September 30th), so Tyler is in the capable hands of mommy and Grandma Jenny yet again.
Because of this, Tyler had his first daddy only day yesterday, while mommy and Grandma went shopping at Gilory. Since Tyler can't speak, I don't know exactly what he thought of his first daddy day ... but it seemed to have gone well.
They went to the bakery where the old ladies went goo goo ga ga over him. They also checked out the sports store ... so daddy could gear up for golf. All in all, Tyler was in once piece and well when we got home (LOL). Guess daddy DID pay attention in baby class and at the nursery! :P Tyler was changed, fed, and napping. YAY!
Because of this, Tyler had his first daddy only day yesterday, while mommy and Grandma went shopping at Gilory. Since Tyler can't speak, I don't know exactly what he thought of his first daddy day ... but it seemed to have gone well.
They went to the bakery where the old ladies went goo goo ga ga over him. They also checked out the sports store ... so daddy could gear up for golf. All in all, Tyler was in once piece and well when we got home (LOL). Guess daddy DID pay attention in baby class and at the nursery! :P Tyler was changed, fed, and napping. YAY!
Thursday, September 27, 2007
First "Tub" Bath
Up until now, we've been only sponging down Tyler with wet cloths and water. He still has that new baby smell, so giving him a bath didn't seem needed. But ... we got a fancy infant tub at the baby shower and I wanted to test it out.
I can't say he hated or enjoyed it. He was a little fussy in the beginning, but did really well overall. I even combed his hair all nice and cut his finger nails again! I swear they grow waay faster than mine. *jealous*
I had intended to take pictures of this "first" moment, but with Brad at work we didn't have a camera man. It took both Grandma Jenny and myself to make sure he was squeaky clean and safe the entire time. Oh well ... next time. And don't worry Tyler, I won't embarrass you by posting any pictures that show your man parts. :P
I can't say he hated or enjoyed it. He was a little fussy in the beginning, but did really well overall. I even combed his hair all nice and cut his finger nails again! I swear they grow waay faster than mine. *jealous*
I had intended to take pictures of this "first" moment, but with Brad at work we didn't have a camera man. It took both Grandma Jenny and myself to make sure he was squeaky clean and safe the entire time. Oh well ... next time. And don't worry Tyler, I won't embarrass you by posting any pictures that show your man parts. :P
Wednesday, September 26, 2007
3 Weeks Old
It's hard to believe that Tyler is already 3 weeks old. I know they say it goes fast, but I never imagined this fast. :P
He looks like he is filling in, but his clothes are still big. We ended up having to buy a few more preemie outfits for the time being, since he is practically swimming in newborn. I am very anxious to find out how much he weighs tomorrow. Anything greater than 5 lbs is a good sign.
My plan is to start trying to breast feed him more often. The one thing I am afraid of is him not getting enough to eat. It's a shame we don't have a gauge which can tell us how much milk we are carrying and when we are fresh out. LOL That would be too easy. Just to be sure, I have been offering him at least 1 oz in a bottle afterwards if he still rooting a lot. If he falls asleep, I just let him sleep. :D
Whoa, Tyler gained about an ounce a day and now weighs in at 5 lbs and 7 ozs. It is amazing isn't it? Dr. O said that everything looks good and we don't have to see him until the end of October. As long as he keeps on gaining weight, we are on the right track! WOOHOO! Maybe soon he can start using some of the CUTE clothes I got for me. :P Like that's his biggest concern in life, LOL.
Pictures! I do have more that I need to upload. Sorry for the delay, I will post them soon! Here's what I got now.
He looks like he is filling in, but his clothes are still big. We ended up having to buy a few more preemie outfits for the time being, since he is practically swimming in newborn. I am very anxious to find out how much he weighs tomorrow. Anything greater than 5 lbs is a good sign.
My plan is to start trying to breast feed him more often. The one thing I am afraid of is him not getting enough to eat. It's a shame we don't have a gauge which can tell us how much milk we are carrying and when we are fresh out. LOL That would be too easy. Just to be sure, I have been offering him at least 1 oz in a bottle afterwards if he still rooting a lot. If he falls asleep, I just let him sleep. :D
Whoa, Tyler gained about an ounce a day and now weighs in at 5 lbs and 7 ozs. It is amazing isn't it? Dr. O said that everything looks good and we don't have to see him until the end of October. As long as he keeps on gaining weight, we are on the right track! WOOHOO! Maybe soon he can start using some of the CUTE clothes I got for me. :P Like that's his biggest concern in life, LOL.
Pictures! I do have more that I need to upload. Sorry for the delay, I will post them soon! Here's what I got now.
Saturday, September 22, 2007
Baby Shower
Tyler's baby shower has been planned for September 22nd for a while now. It's too bad he couldn't attend. Because we are so popular (LOL) and were expecting 50+ people, we were advised against bringing him. Grandma Jenny was nice enough to watch him for the night.
3 of my friends (Wendy, Vicky, and Lerma) were kind enough to plan us a kick ass party! Everything was just perfect. We couldn't have asked for anything more. It was a night of friends, family, and fun.
The theme of the shower was dinosaurs, tyrannosaurus rex to be more specific. The invitations, decorations, and favors (thanks to Wendy and Aidan)... all had TRex! If you haven't yet noticed, his name fits this theme perfectly, Mr. T Rex. :D
The food (courtesy of Vicky and Clay) provided touched all of Tyler's ethnicities: Japanese, Chinese, Filipino, Korean, and Caucasian. Kalbi and Kim Chee soup, Chow Mein, California Rolls, Pork Adobo, and Mini Hamburgers, just to name a few.
Although I didn't win at the games (thought of by Lerma) like I usually do (hehe), they were still fun. Baby trivia is always hard, but lucky for me I had just finished reading through a bunch of baby books. One of the only times useless knowledge actually helped me out. So I took the win with pride. Everything else I didn't do so well. I was way off on guessing the amount of candy in the jar, didn't even want to try guessing the spices in the diapers, had no idea of the pregnancy length of the different animals, and couldn't save my life and identify the parts of the baby shown in the ultra sound.
So as you can see, it was definitely fun times!
I personally didn't take very many pictures ... but will find some and post them soon.
3 of my friends (Wendy, Vicky, and Lerma) were kind enough to plan us a kick ass party! Everything was just perfect. We couldn't have asked for anything more. It was a night of friends, family, and fun.
The theme of the shower was dinosaurs, tyrannosaurus rex to be more specific. The invitations, decorations, and favors (thanks to Wendy and Aidan)... all had TRex! If you haven't yet noticed, his name fits this theme perfectly, Mr. T Rex. :D
The food (courtesy of Vicky and Clay) provided touched all of Tyler's ethnicities: Japanese, Chinese, Filipino, Korean, and Caucasian. Kalbi and Kim Chee soup, Chow Mein, California Rolls, Pork Adobo, and Mini Hamburgers, just to name a few.
Although I didn't win at the games (thought of by Lerma) like I usually do (hehe), they were still fun. Baby trivia is always hard, but lucky for me I had just finished reading through a bunch of baby books. One of the only times useless knowledge actually helped me out. So I took the win with pride. Everything else I didn't do so well. I was way off on guessing the amount of candy in the jar, didn't even want to try guessing the spices in the diapers, had no idea of the pregnancy length of the different animals, and couldn't save my life and identify the parts of the baby shown in the ultra sound.
So as you can see, it was definitely fun times!
I personally didn't take very many pictures ... but will find some and post them soon.
Friday, September 21, 2007
First Pediatrician Appointment
Tyler did well at his first doctor's appointment. After stripping down to his diapers, he was measured and weighed by the nurse. Woohoo! He's 5 lbs now. :D My little boy is already growing fast.
Dr. Ososfsky came in afterwards to conduct his assessment. Tyler passed everything with flying colors. We were given some eye drops to help clear up some "gook" in his eyes and he had the membrane under his tongue cut, so he would be able to move it more. Don't ask me about it, I didn't even notice. LOL
Nothing else interesting ... next appointment is Friday, September 28.
Dr. Ososfsky came in afterwards to conduct his assessment. Tyler passed everything with flying colors. We were given some eye drops to help clear up some "gook" in his eyes and he had the membrane under his tongue cut, so he would be able to move it more. Don't ask me about it, I didn't even notice. LOL
Nothing else interesting ... next appointment is Friday, September 28.
Home Sweet Home
Lucky for us, Tyler is already used to a daily schedule. He pretty much eats every 3 hours and for the most part sleeps in between. We're going to use it for as long as it works or until he eats more in one sitting and can sleep for longer periods of time. I'm doing most of the night shifts, since Brad has to work. He still gets his bonding (feeding) time in at least twice in the evenings. During the day when I'm not nursing, my mom helps bottle feed, so I AM resting a bit. Tyler still takes a while eating (more so when nursing than by bottle) probably a good 30 - 45 minutes.
We took our first official adventure today and went to get some odds and ends things at Target and to briefly walk around the mall (Oakridge). Tyler doesn't seem to mind riding in the car or in his stroller. If he is up he actually looks around, although I think most of the time he was sleeping.
Tomorrow is his first pediatrician appointment, so we will see how it goes.
We took our first official adventure today and went to get some odds and ends things at Target and to briefly walk around the mall (Oakridge). Tyler doesn't seem to mind riding in the car or in his stroller. If he is up he actually looks around, although I think most of the time he was sleeping.
Tomorrow is his first pediatrician appointment, so we will see how it goes.
Tuesday, September 18, 2007
NICU - Week 3
September 18 - 19, 2007
Tuesday - Tyler is officially 2 weeks old as of yesterday. He weighed 4 lbs 13 ozs this morning. Breast fed well AGAIN! Grandma Jenny is flying in this evening and what perfect timing. I was asked to board at the hospital tonight because they plan in discharging Tyler tomorrow! My baby is coming home! :D Not that its interesting, but I've been running around like crazy all day preparing the house. It seems it'll never be "ready", but at least I can say I tried.
Wednesday - The night at the hospital went well. I got through all feedings by myself :) I learned a few last tricks of the trades from the nurses. Tyler weighed 4 lbs 14 ozs. Brad dropped my mom off in the morning on his way to work we waited at the hospital until he could be discharged. After a successful hearing screening, a lot of paper work, and a lot of "free" goodies Tyler was finally free to leave. We all arrived home safely at about 2:00pm. Brad carried him in in his car seat and the dogs were very polite and sniffed for a few minutes. Granted this is still in the first couple of hours of being home, but all is going well. We are both very excited and happy that he is finally home. Grandma Jenny seems to be having fun so far! :P
Tuesday - Tyler is officially 2 weeks old as of yesterday. He weighed 4 lbs 13 ozs this morning. Breast fed well AGAIN! Grandma Jenny is flying in this evening and what perfect timing. I was asked to board at the hospital tonight because they plan in discharging Tyler tomorrow! My baby is coming home! :D Not that its interesting, but I've been running around like crazy all day preparing the house. It seems it'll never be "ready", but at least I can say I tried.
Wednesday - The night at the hospital went well. I got through all feedings by myself :) I learned a few last tricks of the trades from the nurses. Tyler weighed 4 lbs 14 ozs. Brad dropped my mom off in the morning on his way to work we waited at the hospital until he could be discharged. After a successful hearing screening, a lot of paper work, and a lot of "free" goodies Tyler was finally free to leave. We all arrived home safely at about 2:00pm. Brad carried him in in his car seat and the dogs were very polite and sniffed for a few minutes. Granted this is still in the first couple of hours of being home, but all is going well. We are both very excited and happy that he is finally home. Grandma Jenny seems to be having fun so far! :P
Thursday, September 13, 2007
NICU - Week 2
September 11 - 17, 2007
Daddy is still working, so mommy has been visiting Tyler with Aunty Wendy during the day for the morning/afternoon nipple feeding. Daddy comes for the night feeding.
Breastfeeding has become a little frustrating. He isn't latching on well, so we've started to use a nipple shield to help. With this, he seems to do okay so far.
Tyler has been falling asleep while trying to breastfeed. I think he is too comfortable in mommy's arms. :)
He has finally started to gain some weight (4 lbs 7 oz)- Wednesday. Was on every other feeding as nipple, but now back down to once a shift (3 of out 8 times per day)
Bilirubin level was up earlier this week (12.1), but now on Thursday it is down to (8.2). First poopy diaper change and temperature read for mommy.
Breastfeeding went well today (Friday), he lasted about 45 minutes in the morning and almost 30 minutes in the evening. Tyler also graduated to a "big" boy crib and is no longer in the incubator. We get to bring clothes for him to wear! *smile*
Tyler looks so cute in his newborn clothes! He breast fed for about 10 - 15 minutes this morning (Saturday) and had an additional 11 cc's from the bottle. He laid on daddy's lap for a good 45 minutes sleeping. Before we left, he decided to poop again. While changing him mommy got peed on for the first time. His new clothes were now all wet. But it's okay, mommy and daddy brought a bunch of outfits. :) New orders from neonatal doctor ... he's going back every other feeding on a nipple. (4 out of 8 feedings per day). We go 3 times a day (9, 3, 9). 2nd pair of clothes also peed on. :P Still doing the 24 calorie.
Tyler did well at the breast again today (Sunday). He actually took both sides for a total of about 40 minutes in the morning! He also gained more weight and weighs 4 lbs and 9 oz now. Oh and his cord fell off. :P Afternoon breast feeding also went well. 40 minutes again.
Tyler is definitely getting the hang of breast feeding - Monday, 9am. I haven't been tracking this well but he is taking in 46 ccs now. He gained weight again and is now 4 lbs and 12 ozs! My goodness! Because he is doing so well, they actually lowered his calories to 22 and as of this afternoon (3pm) he no longer has the gavage tube and will be attempting to nipple all his feeds. 1 - 2 successful days of this and he is home free. Literally, we will get to take baby Tyler home. 6pm 50ccs and 9pm 55 ccs. Way to go Tyler!
Daddy is still working, so mommy has been visiting Tyler with Aunty Wendy during the day for the morning/afternoon nipple feeding. Daddy comes for the night feeding.
Breastfeeding has become a little frustrating. He isn't latching on well, so we've started to use a nipple shield to help. With this, he seems to do okay so far.
Tyler has been falling asleep while trying to breastfeed. I think he is too comfortable in mommy's arms. :)
He has finally started to gain some weight (4 lbs 7 oz)- Wednesday. Was on every other feeding as nipple, but now back down to once a shift (3 of out 8 times per day)
Bilirubin level was up earlier this week (12.1), but now on Thursday it is down to (8.2). First poopy diaper change and temperature read for mommy.
Breastfeeding went well today (Friday), he lasted about 45 minutes in the morning and almost 30 minutes in the evening. Tyler also graduated to a "big" boy crib and is no longer in the incubator. We get to bring clothes for him to wear! *smile*
Tyler looks so cute in his newborn clothes! He breast fed for about 10 - 15 minutes this morning (Saturday) and had an additional 11 cc's from the bottle. He laid on daddy's lap for a good 45 minutes sleeping. Before we left, he decided to poop again. While changing him mommy got peed on for the first time. His new clothes were now all wet. But it's okay, mommy and daddy brought a bunch of outfits. :) New orders from neonatal doctor ... he's going back every other feeding on a nipple. (4 out of 8 feedings per day). We go 3 times a day (9, 3, 9). 2nd pair of clothes also peed on. :P Still doing the 24 calorie.
Tyler did well at the breast again today (Sunday). He actually took both sides for a total of about 40 minutes in the morning! He also gained more weight and weighs 4 lbs and 9 oz now. Oh and his cord fell off. :P Afternoon breast feeding also went well. 40 minutes again.
Tyler is definitely getting the hang of breast feeding - Monday, 9am. I haven't been tracking this well but he is taking in 46 ccs now. He gained weight again and is now 4 lbs and 12 ozs! My goodness! Because he is doing so well, they actually lowered his calories to 22 and as of this afternoon (3pm) he no longer has the gavage tube and will be attempting to nipple all his feeds. 1 - 2 successful days of this and he is home free. Literally, we will get to take baby Tyler home. 6pm 50ccs and 9pm 55 ccs. Way to go Tyler!
NICU - Week 1
September 4 - 10, 2007
This week held a lot of "firsts" for both mommy and daddy. They both got to change his diaper, do cord care, feed him via tube or bottle, and burp him. Tyler eats every three hours. They increase his feeds 1 cc each feeding. He is eating well over an ounce now. When not eating, he is usually sleeping under the UV lights to help his bilirubin level come down. It's been fluctuating daily, same with his weight.
Mommy boarded at the hospital until Saturday and visited him in the nursery very often. Daddy was working but came to visit every morning and evening.
Tuesday - Tyler was born.
Wednesday - Tyler is being kept in an incubator in the NICU to keep warm and be monitored. He has an IV and vitamin drip and an external feeding tube along with sensors for his heart rate, respiratory rate, and oxygen level. Mommy stopped by to visit, although didn't get to hold him today. Mommy did have a lot of visitors today. :)
Tyler was given a bottle for the first time on Thursday. Mommy got it all on video. Mommy and daddy both got to hold Tyler while getting his gavage (tube) feeding.
Friday - Breast milk slowly started to come in. Very very exciting times! Mommy changed his diaper for the first time.
Saturday - Mommy discharged from the hospital. Mommy and daddy both got to try bottle feeding for the first time. Daddy changed his diaper for the first time.
Tyler had his first attempt at breastfeeding on Monday. It is a lot harder than I anticipated. They have also added some calorie supplements to the breast milk to help him gain weight.
This week held a lot of "firsts" for both mommy and daddy. They both got to change his diaper, do cord care, feed him via tube or bottle, and burp him. Tyler eats every three hours. They increase his feeds 1 cc each feeding. He is eating well over an ounce now. When not eating, he is usually sleeping under the UV lights to help his bilirubin level come down. It's been fluctuating daily, same with his weight.
Mommy boarded at the hospital until Saturday and visited him in the nursery very often. Daddy was working but came to visit every morning and evening.
Tuesday - Tyler was born.
Wednesday - Tyler is being kept in an incubator in the NICU to keep warm and be monitored. He has an IV and vitamin drip and an external feeding tube along with sensors for his heart rate, respiratory rate, and oxygen level. Mommy stopped by to visit, although didn't get to hold him today. Mommy did have a lot of visitors today. :)
Tyler was given a bottle for the first time on Thursday. Mommy got it all on video. Mommy and daddy both got to hold Tyler while getting his gavage (tube) feeding.
Friday - Breast milk slowly started to come in. Very very exciting times! Mommy changed his diaper for the first time.
Saturday - Mommy discharged from the hospital. Mommy and daddy both got to try bottle feeding for the first time. Daddy changed his diaper for the first time.
Tyler had his first attempt at breastfeeding on Monday. It is a lot harder than I anticipated. They have also added some calorie supplements to the breast milk to help him gain weight.
Wednesday, September 12, 2007
Tyler Naoki Rex
Tyler Naoki Rex was born via emergency cesarean section on Sept 4th, 2007 at 6:44pm. He weighed in at 4 lbs 4 oz, and 17 1/4 inches long.
Tyler is currently in the care of the excellent NICU nurses at Los Gatos Community Hospital. Mommy and daddy visit him as often as we can. We can't wait for him to come home!
Tyler is currently in the care of the excellent NICU nurses at Los Gatos Community Hospital. Mommy and daddy visit him as often as we can. We can't wait for him to come home!
Tuesday, September 11, 2007
The BIG day
The morning of the next day came ever so slowly. With all the hospital noises and interruptions throughout the night, it was impossible to sleep. I'd say I got at most 30 minutes of sleep at a time. Besides thinking of what would happen next, I had to go to the bathroom every 2 hours. This simple task which normally took me a few minutes, took nearly 10 minutes. I had to unplug the IV power cord, unplug my contraction and fetal monitor, and pull the entire IV stand thing into the bathroom with me. On top of that, the monitor cords are now draped around my neck since the actual monitors itself are still attached around my waist. *sigh* Anyway ...
Bright and early, I was served breakfast in bed and was happily watching TV for most of the morning. Dr. Teagle came in to check up on me and it seemed all was well. I had survived the first night and was well on my way to getting the 2nd steriod shot, as planned. Dr O, an assigned pediatrician (as we hadn't chosen one yet), also came by to introduce himself. Although most likely he would still be born a preemie and would first be under the care of a neonatal doctor at the nursery.
Brad stopped by before work with more things to keep me occupied as well as some extra snack foods in the event hospital food sucked butt (it actually wasn't too bad!). I had already informed my work that I would not be coming in. :)
Throughout the day, I struggled getting myself to and from the bathroom ... but for the most part was rather comfortable. After my 2nd steriod shot, I was off to have a 30 minute ultra sound evaluation to try and get an estimated size, weight and other developmental information on the baby. Looking at the monitor, I could see his heart beating and his little hands and feet. I had the doctor check again to make sure he was still a boy. I had thought all was well. Little did I know, it wasn't exactly peachy.
Dr. Teagle came back sometime during lunch. My food was there, but I hadn't had a chance to eat just yet. It seems the report that came back on the ultrasound mentioned very little or no movement of the baby. Dr. Teagle found this quite odd because the fetal monitor papers showed great movement that morning up until I was wheeled away for the exam. They brought a machine into my room and Dr. Teagle performed yet another exam. We're not sure what had changed, but the report was right and my little baby boy was now showing very little signs of movement. His heart was still beating strong, he just wasn't moving.
At this point, either the baby is just in distress or maybe has an infection (this is possible mostly because my water was broken). She now wants me to be monitored even more closely than before. I was told I could no longer eat because they wanted me to rest. There was nothing I could do to but lay there and wait. I couldn't help but cry at this point. I felt helpless and was pretty scared. I called Brad to come back to the hospital. While he was on his way, Dr. Teagle gave me the quick 411. Basically, the best course of action would be to induce labor and deliver today. I had two choices. I could try for a normal delivery or I could have a c-section. I waited for Brad before making a decision. In the end, we decided to induce labor and see if a normal delivery was possible. If all else failed, then I would do the c-section.
I was then given a shot of pitocin and we were again on our way. Word had slowly gotten out that I was at the hospital. Lennie and Lerma came by to visit. We all chit-chatted while watching TV. Every now and then the nurses would come by to check my vitals and the monitors. We saw slight improvements in the fetal graphs although still not as much as before. Over the next three hours or so, they continued upping my dose of pitocin. I could slowly feel the contractions becoming a little stronger and more often. But nothing I couldn't tolerate at this point.
At about 6:00pm or so, Dr. Teagle swings by for a quick update. My baby wasn't tolerating the contractions and the time has come to deliver. With in 5 - 10 minutes I am whisked off the the operating room where I get a spinal tap (or spinal-dural, as Lerma called it, LOL) and am lying on the table awaiting my procedure. Brad is there with me sitting right by my side wearing full hospital scrubs. A drape was put up, so I couldn't see. Shortly after, I could no longer feel anything from my chest down. This was it, I was going to have a baby. I laid there with my eyes closed as the surgery started. Although I couldn't feel any pain, I could feel a lot of pulling and tugging around my abdomen. It's a weird feeling that I can't explain. I couldn't have been there any longer than 10 - 15 minutes or so when they asked Brad if he wanted see the delivery. He stood up and within a minute I felt a push and then we heard the baby cry! He cried and I cried. I couldn't believe it, my son was born.
They quickly whisked him away to a heated bed area where the doctors examined him and cleaned him up. I was still crying and now shivering (supposedly the shivering is common). My baby's cry was echoing in the operation room. There are no words to explain how I felt at that exact moment. I was just overjoyed to hear him crying because crying meant he could breathe on his own.
Little baby Tyler was carried over to me by the labor nurse. Brad was the first to hold him as I just watched from where I still laid on the table. (at this point, they were now stitching me up). He was only with us for a minute or two before having to be wheeled away to the nursery for further examinations.
I could totally be wrong, but the actual stitching me up part seemed to have taken much longer than the delivery. When I was good to go, I was wheeled away to the recovery area where I was able to have some ice chips and wait for the anesthesia to wear off. They wouldn't let me go to the nursery until I could (with assistance) get myself into a wheel chair. After what seemed like a century, I was off to see my baby boy! This was no doubt the happiest of moment of my life.
Bright and early, I was served breakfast in bed and was happily watching TV for most of the morning. Dr. Teagle came in to check up on me and it seemed all was well. I had survived the first night and was well on my way to getting the 2nd steriod shot, as planned. Dr O, an assigned pediatrician (as we hadn't chosen one yet), also came by to introduce himself. Although most likely he would still be born a preemie and would first be under the care of a neonatal doctor at the nursery.
Brad stopped by before work with more things to keep me occupied as well as some extra snack foods in the event hospital food sucked butt (it actually wasn't too bad!). I had already informed my work that I would not be coming in. :)
Throughout the day, I struggled getting myself to and from the bathroom ... but for the most part was rather comfortable. After my 2nd steriod shot, I was off to have a 30 minute ultra sound evaluation to try and get an estimated size, weight and other developmental information on the baby. Looking at the monitor, I could see his heart beating and his little hands and feet. I had the doctor check again to make sure he was still a boy. I had thought all was well. Little did I know, it wasn't exactly peachy.
Dr. Teagle came back sometime during lunch. My food was there, but I hadn't had a chance to eat just yet. It seems the report that came back on the ultrasound mentioned very little or no movement of the baby. Dr. Teagle found this quite odd because the fetal monitor papers showed great movement that morning up until I was wheeled away for the exam. They brought a machine into my room and Dr. Teagle performed yet another exam. We're not sure what had changed, but the report was right and my little baby boy was now showing very little signs of movement. His heart was still beating strong, he just wasn't moving.
At this point, either the baby is just in distress or maybe has an infection (this is possible mostly because my water was broken). She now wants me to be monitored even more closely than before. I was told I could no longer eat because they wanted me to rest. There was nothing I could do to but lay there and wait. I couldn't help but cry at this point. I felt helpless and was pretty scared. I called Brad to come back to the hospital. While he was on his way, Dr. Teagle gave me the quick 411. Basically, the best course of action would be to induce labor and deliver today. I had two choices. I could try for a normal delivery or I could have a c-section. I waited for Brad before making a decision. In the end, we decided to induce labor and see if a normal delivery was possible. If all else failed, then I would do the c-section.
I was then given a shot of pitocin and we were again on our way. Word had slowly gotten out that I was at the hospital. Lennie and Lerma came by to visit. We all chit-chatted while watching TV. Every now and then the nurses would come by to check my vitals and the monitors. We saw slight improvements in the fetal graphs although still not as much as before. Over the next three hours or so, they continued upping my dose of pitocin. I could slowly feel the contractions becoming a little stronger and more often. But nothing I couldn't tolerate at this point.
At about 6:00pm or so, Dr. Teagle swings by for a quick update. My baby wasn't tolerating the contractions and the time has come to deliver. With in 5 - 10 minutes I am whisked off the the operating room where I get a spinal tap (or spinal-dural, as Lerma called it, LOL) and am lying on the table awaiting my procedure. Brad is there with me sitting right by my side wearing full hospital scrubs. A drape was put up, so I couldn't see. Shortly after, I could no longer feel anything from my chest down. This was it, I was going to have a baby. I laid there with my eyes closed as the surgery started. Although I couldn't feel any pain, I could feel a lot of pulling and tugging around my abdomen. It's a weird feeling that I can't explain. I couldn't have been there any longer than 10 - 15 minutes or so when they asked Brad if he wanted see the delivery. He stood up and within a minute I felt a push and then we heard the baby cry! He cried and I cried. I couldn't believe it, my son was born.
They quickly whisked him away to a heated bed area where the doctors examined him and cleaned him up. I was still crying and now shivering (supposedly the shivering is common). My baby's cry was echoing in the operation room. There are no words to explain how I felt at that exact moment. I was just overjoyed to hear him crying because crying meant he could breathe on his own.
Little baby Tyler was carried over to me by the labor nurse. Brad was the first to hold him as I just watched from where I still laid on the table. (at this point, they were now stitching me up). He was only with us for a minute or two before having to be wheeled away to the nursery for further examinations.
I could totally be wrong, but the actual stitching me up part seemed to have taken much longer than the delivery. When I was good to go, I was wheeled away to the recovery area where I was able to have some ice chips and wait for the anesthesia to wear off. They wouldn't let me go to the nursery until I could (with assistance) get myself into a wheel chair. After what seemed like a century, I was off to see my baby boy! This was no doubt the happiest of moment of my life.
Sunday, September 9, 2007
Labor Day of 2007
I can't say there was anything unusual about this particular Labor Day. I woke up to tend to the dogs, so Brad could get some extra shut eye. The weather was nice and I was looking forward to taking Hoku and Koa to the newly renovated dog park near our house. After eating breakfast ... Brad and I headed to the dog park, I'd say at about 9:30am. I felt great and wouldn't have been the wiser as to what this day would hold for us.
As we slowly walked down the street ... I had a weird feeling that I mistakenly peed in my pants a bit. Not a big deal, just a teeny tiny bit at first which I ignored to be somewhat normal at this point in my pregnancy. As instructed, I was already wearing liners for this exact purpose. But as I continued walking, the weird "peeing" like sensation continued and there wasn't anything I could do about it. With a mind of its own, it just continued to "leak". At this point, I sent Brad off to the dog park, while I headed back to the house to change. Before I got home (probably a little less than 5 minutes), it literally looked like I was a 2 year who had just peed their pants.
Back at the house, I quickly changed and headed back out to the park. The "peeing" had stopped for the time being and I had upgraded to a pad rather than another liner. Not really knowing what that was, I figured I'd ask a friend (who had just recently had a baby) to see what she thought. In the back of my mind I thought it could be my water ... but I was only 33 weeks and it seemed a bit early. Plus, I was expecting a BIG gush of water more so then leaking. Contrary to what I thought, Lennie, suggested I call the hospital to find out what I should do. In the end, the labor and delivery nurse told me to come in to get the fluid tested and to see if it indeed was my water. I actually had to bring in my ever so embarrassing "pee" pants for testing, LOL. They said it was better to be safe than sorry. So that's what we did. We took the doggies back home, quickly tried packing an overnight bag (I obviously didn't pack one just yet), and off we were.
When we got there, they were already expecting me. They quickly sent me into a room where I was instructed to give a urine sample, while the lady checked the fluid. To our surprise, it turns out it WAS amniotic fluid. Before I knew it, I was in a hospital gown laying on the bed attached to a fetal and contraction monitor. This was it, I was here to stay.
I was worried and scared. It was too early. He wasn't ready. So many things raced through my mind, I didn't know what to think. I just sorta laid there awaiting my doctor's arrival.
Doctor Teagle got there rather quickly. Lucky for me she hadn't ventured too far away from home on this holiday weekend. She did an ultrasound and a very uncomfortable physical exam to see where I was at and get some fluids to run a few tests. I was about a finger tip dilated ... whatever that meant.
So being only 33 weeks early ... the first official game plan was to keep me pregnant for as long as they could. 2 weeks if at all possible! I was hooked up to an IV, a penicillin drip, and was given a shot which was supposed to slow down if not stop the labor. I believe it was Terbutaline, but I am not 100% sure. I was also given a type of steriod shot to help the baby's lung develop faster. Apparently, complete lung development doesn't happen until 34 or 35 weeks. They were hoping to get at least 2 of these shots in me, which can only be given in 24 hour intervals. So the hope was, I could last at the very least until the next day ... still pregnant so I could get the 2nd shot. If I wasn't able to get the 2nd shot and had to deliver sooner, chances were he would need a respirator to help him breathe. The other main concern was the ability to suck and swallow. Development of that doesn't usually come in till around 35 weeks as well. But that is something that can be learned, so it wasn't as big of a concern.
Now that we had a plan, I felt a little better. I sent Brad home to get the rest of my things and I got accustomed to my new hospital room that would be my home for the next few days. He stayed until evening and then went home to tend to the dogs and sleep. He was still going to be working, since we needed the money (LOL) and I wouldn't be needing him until I was actually ready to deliver.
As we slowly walked down the street ... I had a weird feeling that I mistakenly peed in my pants a bit. Not a big deal, just a teeny tiny bit at first which I ignored to be somewhat normal at this point in my pregnancy. As instructed, I was already wearing liners for this exact purpose. But as I continued walking, the weird "peeing" like sensation continued and there wasn't anything I could do about it. With a mind of its own, it just continued to "leak". At this point, I sent Brad off to the dog park, while I headed back to the house to change. Before I got home (probably a little less than 5 minutes), it literally looked like I was a 2 year who had just peed their pants.
Back at the house, I quickly changed and headed back out to the park. The "peeing" had stopped for the time being and I had upgraded to a pad rather than another liner. Not really knowing what that was, I figured I'd ask a friend (who had just recently had a baby) to see what she thought. In the back of my mind I thought it could be my water ... but I was only 33 weeks and it seemed a bit early. Plus, I was expecting a BIG gush of water more so then leaking. Contrary to what I thought, Lennie, suggested I call the hospital to find out what I should do. In the end, the labor and delivery nurse told me to come in to get the fluid tested and to see if it indeed was my water. I actually had to bring in my ever so embarrassing "pee" pants for testing, LOL. They said it was better to be safe than sorry. So that's what we did. We took the doggies back home, quickly tried packing an overnight bag (I obviously didn't pack one just yet), and off we were.
When we got there, they were already expecting me. They quickly sent me into a room where I was instructed to give a urine sample, while the lady checked the fluid. To our surprise, it turns out it WAS amniotic fluid. Before I knew it, I was in a hospital gown laying on the bed attached to a fetal and contraction monitor. This was it, I was here to stay.
I was worried and scared. It was too early. He wasn't ready. So many things raced through my mind, I didn't know what to think. I just sorta laid there awaiting my doctor's arrival.
Doctor Teagle got there rather quickly. Lucky for me she hadn't ventured too far away from home on this holiday weekend. She did an ultrasound and a very uncomfortable physical exam to see where I was at and get some fluids to run a few tests. I was about a finger tip dilated ... whatever that meant.
So being only 33 weeks early ... the first official game plan was to keep me pregnant for as long as they could. 2 weeks if at all possible! I was hooked up to an IV, a penicillin drip, and was given a shot which was supposed to slow down if not stop the labor. I believe it was Terbutaline, but I am not 100% sure. I was also given a type of steriod shot to help the baby's lung develop faster. Apparently, complete lung development doesn't happen until 34 or 35 weeks. They were hoping to get at least 2 of these shots in me, which can only be given in 24 hour intervals. So the hope was, I could last at the very least until the next day ... still pregnant so I could get the 2nd shot. If I wasn't able to get the 2nd shot and had to deliver sooner, chances were he would need a respirator to help him breathe. The other main concern was the ability to suck and swallow. Development of that doesn't usually come in till around 35 weeks as well. But that is something that can be learned, so it wasn't as big of a concern.
Now that we had a plan, I felt a little better. I sent Brad home to get the rest of my things and I got accustomed to my new hospital room that would be my home for the next few days. He stayed until evening and then went home to tend to the dogs and sleep. He was still going to be working, since we needed the money (LOL) and I wouldn't be needing him until I was actually ready to deliver.
Saturday, September 1, 2007
The long awaited nursery
It's finally done! WOOHOO!
It's nothing fancy, but check it out!
Bassinet for our room
It's nothing fancy, but check it out!
Bassinet for our room
Saturday, August 25, 2007
32 weeks and counting ...
Okay, so I think I am more or less caught up to the present. Today puts us at 32 weeks and counting. We've taken care of majority of the things we needed too. Took the all day express birth class, basic newborn care, and did the tour of the hospital. I already registered as a patient at the hospital and should be all set when the time comes.
My doctor's appointments are already every 2 weeks, the next one being Thursday, September 13th. Everything was just fine and dandy at my last appointment. I've gained about 25 lbs so far and Tyler's heartbeat was normal at 165 bpm.
The one thing we have left is choosing our Pediatrician. We got a list through my doctor of ones who work at the West Valley Women's Health building that she recommends. Our next steps are to set up interviews with them to see which one we like the best. I am not sure why, but I was leaning towards trying to get a female doctor ... but I guess it doesn't matter.
On a side note, we got our nursery furniture the other week. A crib and a dresser/changing table. They are both up in the room, but the crib still needs to be assembled. I will take and post pictures once we get it together.
My doctor's appointments are already every 2 weeks, the next one being Thursday, September 13th. Everything was just fine and dandy at my last appointment. I've gained about 25 lbs so far and Tyler's heartbeat was normal at 165 bpm.
The one thing we have left is choosing our Pediatrician. We got a list through my doctor of ones who work at the West Valley Women's Health building that she recommends. Our next steps are to set up interviews with them to see which one we like the best. I am not sure why, but I was leaning towards trying to get a female doctor ... but I guess it doesn't matter.
On a side note, we got our nursery furniture the other week. A crib and a dresser/changing table. They are both up in the room, but the crib still needs to be assembled. I will take and post pictures once we get it together.
Almost nearing the end ...
My third trimester hasn't been very fun so far. Most people say I am not "that" big yet, but I feel quite huge. It is much harder to do certain everyday things like put on pants, tie my shoes, or even get up and out of bed. On top of that, my back hurts all the time and I am starting to get sleepy again. I was almost convinced my morning sickness was back the other weekend when I threw up for 2 days straight. Lucky for me it was a fluke, because thankfully, I am all better now.
Besides that, I've had a few "weird" things going on. For no reason (that I or my doctor could figure out), I had what appeared to be a hive like rash all over my arms and legs. It was horrible. I can't remember exactly what it was like to have chicken pox, but I am thinking it was very similar to that. I wanted to scratch all day and night and when I did, it only got worse. To help alleviate the itching I was rubbing calamine lotion on it everyday and taking benadryl at night. Soon enough, the spots were disappearing and the itching was subsiding. Eventually they were gone, but now something new was appearing on my belly. These new bumps looked more like a bunch of mosquito bites with the same type of itching. This time, my doctor said I COULD have a very mild case of PUPPPS --(Pruritic urticarial papules and plaques of pregnancy, also known as polymorphic eruption of pregnancy, is a common rash in pregnant women. It normally occurs in first pregnancies during the third trimester with an average onset of 35 weeks.). More calamine lotion for me! Being the geek that I am, I looked up PUPPPs on the Internet when I got home. Not to disagree with my doctor, but from the pictures I saw ... there was NO way I had that. It didn't look the same AT ALL. Doesn't matter I guess, it has been getting better with the calamine lotion and causes no harm to me or the baby.
I'm so clever!
For easy comparison, look its the same shirt!
Besides that, I've had a few "weird" things going on. For no reason (that I or my doctor could figure out), I had what appeared to be a hive like rash all over my arms and legs. It was horrible. I can't remember exactly what it was like to have chicken pox, but I am thinking it was very similar to that. I wanted to scratch all day and night and when I did, it only got worse. To help alleviate the itching I was rubbing calamine lotion on it everyday and taking benadryl at night. Soon enough, the spots were disappearing and the itching was subsiding. Eventually they were gone, but now something new was appearing on my belly. These new bumps looked more like a bunch of mosquito bites with the same type of itching. This time, my doctor said I COULD have a very mild case of PUPPPS --(Pruritic urticarial papules and plaques of pregnancy, also known as polymorphic eruption of pregnancy, is a common rash in pregnant women. It normally occurs in first pregnancies during the third trimester with an average onset of 35 weeks.). More calamine lotion for me! Being the geek that I am, I looked up PUPPPs on the Internet when I got home. Not to disagree with my doctor, but from the pictures I saw ... there was NO way I had that. It didn't look the same AT ALL. Doesn't matter I guess, it has been getting better with the calamine lotion and causes no harm to me or the baby.
I'm so clever!
For easy comparison, look its the same shirt!
The nursery fiasco
We originally intended to add the nursery into our guest room (the bigger of the 2 spare rooms we have). We had already painted it yellow (a neutral color we figured would work for a boy or a girl), changed the dingy carpet to bamboo hardwood, and replaced the baseboards. It was pretty much completed and ready to go! For what ever reason, we (or maybe just me) changed our minds and now wanted to use the computer room as the nursery instead. The downfall to this new plan was that the computer room had NOT been re-done. We took a long break when trying to fix up the place after moving in 2 1/2 years ago and never did it.
So now the hard work began, at least for Brad. He took on the task to move the entire office into the guest room and anywhere else he could manage to stuff things. I helped out as much as I could, not lifting anything too heavy (as instructed NOT to do by my doctor). Before I knew it, the room was empty and was soon being painted a light shade of tan called Arabian Sands. As much as I wanted to help *cough cough*, I actually had to leave the house while the painting was done (again as instructed by my doctor). A few days later, it was completed and I absolutely LOVED it. With a little help from a few friends the bamboo floors and baseboards were in a few weeks later and we were back in business ... or so we thought.
Our 2007 SJ/SF, LA, Vegas family vacation was coming up and our house needed to be ready to host my mom, Tammy, and Scott. We couldn't start decorating the nursery just yet. Instead, temporarily we made the soon to be nursery into a guest room (for my mom with a real queen size bed) and set up the old guest room into the office, which also needed space to fit a queen size air-mattress for Tammy and Scott. Our thought process for doing this was so the office could later remain the office and the guest room would later turn into nursery. Confused yet? :P
So it seems we were now pretty much all set, right? Wrong! To completely empty the nursery (which currently is the make shift guest room), we now had to find space for all the furniture. The office already had 2 desks with desktop computers and chairs, a bookshelf, a dresser, and a full sized filing cabinet. There was absolutely NO room for a queen size bed, another dresser, and another bookshelf. The easy solution would be to give up the guest room. Enough said! But when have you known us to be easy? With the upcoming birth of our baby, the first grandchild on both sides ... we were totally expecting guests!! New Grandmas and Grandpas to be exact and it didn't seem proper to have to have them sleep on an air-mattress.
Let the creativity begin. Maybe we could turn the dining room into an office. We never eat in there! Or, maybe we get rid of the desktop computers and replace them with laptops so it'll take up less space. We always have extra money to buy stuff we don't really need! Grrr, this wasn't easy. In the end, we stuffed my computer desk, chair, computer and printer into our bedroom. This left us enough room in the office to at least put the bed. We ended up giving away all the extra furniture to friends or donating them to goodwill. But alas ... now things were more or less in order. We had a bedroom/office, a guest room/office and an empty nursery we could finally start preparing!
So now the hard work began, at least for Brad. He took on the task to move the entire office into the guest room and anywhere else he could manage to stuff things. I helped out as much as I could, not lifting anything too heavy (as instructed NOT to do by my doctor). Before I knew it, the room was empty and was soon being painted a light shade of tan called Arabian Sands. As much as I wanted to help *cough cough*, I actually had to leave the house while the painting was done (again as instructed by my doctor). A few days later, it was completed and I absolutely LOVED it. With a little help from a few friends the bamboo floors and baseboards were in a few weeks later and we were back in business ... or so we thought.
Our 2007 SJ/SF, LA, Vegas family vacation was coming up and our house needed to be ready to host my mom, Tammy, and Scott. We couldn't start decorating the nursery just yet. Instead, temporarily we made the soon to be nursery into a guest room (for my mom with a real queen size bed) and set up the old guest room into the office, which also needed space to fit a queen size air-mattress for Tammy and Scott. Our thought process for doing this was so the office could later remain the office and the guest room would later turn into nursery. Confused yet? :P
So it seems we were now pretty much all set, right? Wrong! To completely empty the nursery (which currently is the make shift guest room), we now had to find space for all the furniture. The office already had 2 desks with desktop computers and chairs, a bookshelf, a dresser, and a full sized filing cabinet. There was absolutely NO room for a queen size bed, another dresser, and another bookshelf. The easy solution would be to give up the guest room. Enough said! But when have you known us to be easy? With the upcoming birth of our baby, the first grandchild on both sides ... we were totally expecting guests!! New Grandmas and Grandpas to be exact and it didn't seem proper to have to have them sleep on an air-mattress.
Let the creativity begin. Maybe we could turn the dining room into an office. We never eat in there! Or, maybe we get rid of the desktop computers and replace them with laptops so it'll take up less space. We always have extra money to buy stuff we don't really need! Grrr, this wasn't easy. In the end, we stuffed my computer desk, chair, computer and printer into our bedroom. This left us enough room in the office to at least put the bed. We ended up giving away all the extra furniture to friends or donating them to goodwill. But alas ... now things were more or less in order. We had a bedroom/office, a guest room/office and an empty nursery we could finally start preparing!
Tuesday, August 21, 2007
In the middle ...
I was very relieved when the morning sickness finally came to an end at about 5 months. We (more so me than Brad) slowly started spreading the news, since we were now well into our 2nd trimester and knew the gender of the baby. (it's a boy, if you haven't figured it out yet :P)
I can safely say that I enjoyed my 2nd trimester the most. I was no longer sick nor tired. I actually felt good, almost back to normal good. My belly was barely a bump, but I felt happy to be pregnant.
Even if I was barely showing, my regular clothes were getting a bit snug and uncomfortable. As much as I didn't want to have to buy new ones in bigger sizes, no less, I bit the bullet and went shopping. I actually kind of lucked out to start with. Empire waisted clothes were "in" and those were perfect to accommodate my soon to be growing belly. I was able to get away buying regular tops in bigger sizes. The only real maternity clothes I initially bought were pants. I tested out the waters at a few stores: GAP, Old Navy, Maternity Motherhood, and Target and was very impressed at the variety of styles available out there. The one thing I wasn't too keen on were the prices. Why would I want to spend $30.00 on pants I would only wear for a few months, if that. I wasn't sure how often I would need to buy new ones. It was ridiculous! Even so, I bought a few pairs anyway. *sigh*
Now on to the FUN part. Shopping for baby gear! Boy, is it fun to buy baby clothes! They are so tiny and cute! I probably went a big overboard at first. In fact, I think we are all set on clothes for newborn and 0 - 3 months. A baby can't have too many onesies, right? :P
The rest of the baby necessities were a bit more challenging. Even with the ample amounts of of information on the Internet, I found myself confused and overwhelmed by all of the choices. Luckily, Babies R Us has a checklist one can use to start baby shopping. With no where else to turn, I started with that and went from there. A few hundred reviews later, viola ... I had a list of things I "think" I wanted to get for our baby.
Can you tell I'm expecting? :P
I can safely say that I enjoyed my 2nd trimester the most. I was no longer sick nor tired. I actually felt good, almost back to normal good. My belly was barely a bump, but I felt happy to be pregnant.
Even if I was barely showing, my regular clothes were getting a bit snug and uncomfortable. As much as I didn't want to have to buy new ones in bigger sizes, no less, I bit the bullet and went shopping. I actually kind of lucked out to start with. Empire waisted clothes were "in" and those were perfect to accommodate my soon to be growing belly. I was able to get away buying regular tops in bigger sizes. The only real maternity clothes I initially bought were pants. I tested out the waters at a few stores: GAP, Old Navy, Maternity Motherhood, and Target and was very impressed at the variety of styles available out there. The one thing I wasn't too keen on were the prices. Why would I want to spend $30.00 on pants I would only wear for a few months, if that. I wasn't sure how often I would need to buy new ones. It was ridiculous! Even so, I bought a few pairs anyway. *sigh*
Now on to the FUN part. Shopping for baby gear! Boy, is it fun to buy baby clothes! They are so tiny and cute! I probably went a big overboard at first. In fact, I think we are all set on clothes for newborn and 0 - 3 months. A baby can't have too many onesies, right? :P
The rest of the baby necessities were a bit more challenging. Even with the ample amounts of of information on the Internet, I found myself confused and overwhelmed by all of the choices. Luckily, Babies R Us has a checklist one can use to start baby shopping. With no where else to turn, I started with that and went from there. A few hundred reviews later, viola ... I had a list of things I "think" I wanted to get for our baby.
Can you tell I'm expecting? :P
In the beginning ...
In a nutshell ... I started off my pregnancy with a bang! Instant morning sickness pretty much from the very beginning. I was no where prepared for all the nausea and vomiting. And "morning" sickness my ass! All day and night sickness would best describe it, at least for me. I can safely say, it was a daily occurrence which lasted all the way through my 4th month. There were times I honestly didn't think it was worth it. I was miserable. I practically had to force myself to eat in order to get sick LESS knowing that it would all come up within the next couple of hours. At home, no big deal, but at work ... man! Trying to be discreet about praying to the porcelain God in a public restroom isn't the easiest thing to do. I don't know how many times I had to stop and hold it in while someone else came in to do their business. I know, I know ... probably not the best thing for me, but I didn't want people to know ... just yet. For the most part I was able to eat fruits, eggo waffles, crackers, and cereal. I did eat other regular meals, mostly consisting of some meat with rice. I had an aversion to salad and lacked a lot in the veggie department.
The other thing that instantly hit me was the sleepy and tiredness. I literally came home from work to eat dinner, shower and instantly fall asleep. Sometimes before 9pm!! And it didn't seem to matter how much sleep I was getting, I would still be exhausted. Who knew!?!?!
In addition, I also gained a super sensitive canine like sense of smell, which could detect foul odors from a mile away. Bad breath and BO plagued me everywhere I went. Scents I normally enjoyed started bothering me. We had to throw away the Kim Chee that was in our fridge, I couldn't use my perfume, Brad couldn't wear his cologne, all air fresheners had to be removed, scented bath and body soaps and lotions were too strong, and the dogs always seemed to smell like poo. It was weird. I couldn't even stand the smell of cooking. Especially frying foods. Not that I should be complaining, it was probably healthier for me this way.
All in all, it was definitely an experience I will never forget.
The other thing that instantly hit me was the sleepy and tiredness. I literally came home from work to eat dinner, shower and instantly fall asleep. Sometimes before 9pm!! And it didn't seem to matter how much sleep I was getting, I would still be exhausted. Who knew!?!?!
In addition, I also gained a super sensitive canine like sense of smell, which could detect foul odors from a mile away. Bad breath and BO plagued me everywhere I went. Scents I normally enjoyed started bothering me. We had to throw away the Kim Chee that was in our fridge, I couldn't use my perfume, Brad couldn't wear his cologne, all air fresheners had to be removed, scented bath and body soaps and lotions were too strong, and the dogs always seemed to smell like poo. It was weird. I couldn't even stand the smell of cooking. Especially frying foods. Not that I should be complaining, it was probably healthier for me this way.
All in all, it was definitely an experience I will never forget.
Aloha!!
Okay, so I got this blog idea a little late ... but hopefully it will turn out to be a great way to share what I've been going through the past few months and what's soon to come in the months ahead. :)
Please check back ... I'm hoping to post weekly.
Please check back ... I'm hoping to post weekly.
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