Christmas review

We had such a great holiday. I love spending time with family and friends. Saturday we went to my brother's house to do our family Christmas. It was so fun with all the kiddos opening presents and getting excited about their gifts. It was a bit chaotic with wrapping paper flying about. The twins got a beautiful picture frame from Aunt Michelle, Uncle Chris and Jordan. They also got several cute outfits from Aunt Tasha. Christmas morning we opened gifts at our house. We slept inn until about 9. I guess when there are no young kids in the house you don't have to wake up at the crack of dawn. Ashley loved all of her presents, even the clothes I picked out. Which is a total shock. Normally I buy her something and we have to return it because she doesn't like it. I guess I have suddenly got style!!!
We decided that Wednesday we would drive to LA to surprise Aaron's family. We fed the babies at 10 am then hit the road. 1:30 was feeding time again so we stopped for gas, potty breaks and baby feeding time. They did so well. No crying at all. Aaron's mom was so shocked to see us. Of course she was excited but she had no idea at all we would pack up and come to LA. We have enjoyed our visit so far. We went and visited Aaron's Aunt and Uncle and today we are going to visit Patrick and Amy.
I hope you and your family had a wonderful Christmas.

Love, Staci

Almost 17 lbs of babies

Preston weighs 9 lbs 5 oz and Lily weighs 7 lbs 15 oz. Wow the difference is amazing. He is a total eater and she is a snacker. She will eat a few oz then stop and burp and wait a few minutes before she is ready to eat again. Preston sucks down his bottle in record time then wants more. It's so funny to see the difference in the 2. They are so alike in some areas and so different in others.
I hope everyone has a Merry Christmas.

Staci

Has another week gone by

SO another week has come and gone. Wow and Christmas will be here soon. I am done shopping but have not wrapped a single thing. I start to but then a baby cries or I run out of tape. I will get it done before Christmas for sure. So nothing new to report except the babies are growing like weeds. I swear from day to day they change so much. I will upload the latest pics and video tomorrow when I have more time. Right now both babies are fed, clean and sleeping so I am off to bed while they sleep. They have been doing well at night and sleeping for at least 4 hours.
Take care- Staci

6 weeks

The babies are 6 weeks old today. Time has gone by so fast. They are getting so big too. Preston weighs 8 lbs 3 oz!!!! Lily weighs 7 lbs 2 oz!!!! I am amazed how big they are getting. Aaron went back to work on Monday so I have been doing it alone during the day. It's not too bad the babies wake up about 7 to eat and be changed then they stay awake until 9 or so and go back to sleep for a few hours.

I was able to go to the mall yesterday when Aaron got home from work. I got most of our Christmas shopping done. I have been online and making lists so I knew exactly what I needed to buy.

Aunt Tasha came by yesterday to bring the babies some onsies she made. They are so cute. They love playing dress up. hehe

The babies are still happy and healthy. We have not been taking them anywhere. We are so afraid they will get sick again. It's hard to believe they could get sick since it's 80 degrees outside. Sheesh it's supposed to be winter!!!!!

I have put lots more pics on the web album also. Including the babies first bath. : )

Love~ Staci

Lily pie is home

Lily came home happy and healthy yesterday. We are trying to get back to a somewhat normal routine. They have gone back to eating every 3 hours? I have no idea why this sudden change. They are eating about 4 to 4 1/2 oz each feeding. Maybe it's a growth spurt, who knows. I am just happy they are eating and doing well.
Mama Jean went back to Louisiana this morning. She was such a huge help. I don't think we would have made it without her. Aaron's family has been so awesome. My family has been too. I can't thank everyone enough for the help. We had people staying at the hospital just so we could get showers and a meal. Speaking of meals thank you for them. It has been so wonderful not having to worry about what's for dinner.
I have taken more pics and will put them on later. I have to go pick up Ashley's medicine. She has an ear infection. I took her to the dr. and we have all received flu shots and the babies got the RSV shot before they left the hospital. Hopefully this is the end of our germs.

Staci

Preston is home

Preston came home on Friday. The Dr said they could tell that the Pneumonia wasn't bacterial because the blood culture came back clear. When they do a blood culture they grow it for 48 hours and then check it to be sure there is no bacteria. Lily is still on oxygen and may be home by Tuesday. They have dropped her oxygen down but she isn't ready to come off completely yet. She is still getting her Albuteral and Pulmacort treatments and they seem to be helping break the mucus up in her lungs. I will be so happy when they are both home and we can settle back into our routine. Well at least the routine we were starting to get used to before all this happened.
Aaron has taken the week off and we have cancelled our Christmas plans. We are staying home and making sure these babies stay well.
Take care and I will update with any new information.

Staci

The worst birthday ever

As many of you know Tuesday, Nov 27th was my 30th birthday. As many of you know Lily has been sick. I never imagined what would happen on this day and where I would be right now. The day started out fine after taking Lily to the Dr on Monday we were told to keep sucking her nose out and keep the vaporizer on her and watch for fever or wheezing. Well in the afternoon about 2 I was giving her a bath and finished up and started to bathe Preston. Mama Jean came into the kitchen with Lily and screamed Staci she is not breathing. I took one look and grabbed her. She was completely blue and limp. I yelled for my mom to call 911. I started patting her back and laid her on the counter and started CPR. I gave her 2 breaths and she started gasping and coughing. She finally started crying when the ambulance arrived. My whole world stopped it felt like it took an hour for the ambulance to arrive. They took her to the hospital and admitted her for bronchitis. They ran a bunch of tests and did a chest xray that showed she has fluid in her lungs. I have no idea how we went from the pediatrician on Monday to this. I don't know if the fluid in her lungs was there on Monday. All I know is she stopped breathing and I never want to relive that. She is still in the hospital on breathing treatments every 4 hours and she is on oxygen. She is eating well and alert. She just looks so sad with her oxygen in her nose. : ( I called Aaron in Scotland on our way to the hospital and he boarded the next plane he could. He got in yesterday at 7 pm. His mom has also come in from LA.
Now for Preston. He started having the same symptoms as Lily so I took him to the Dr yesterday. The pedi said the same thing to watch him and do the vaporizer. I thought this advice was unacceptable because I was not going to be sent home with another sick baby after what happened to Lily. So I decided to take him to the hospital and have him observed and tested through the emergency room like Lily was. Glad I did. He has Pneumonia. I mean seriously how can a pedi listen to a chest and not order a chest xray or something on a 4 week old? Now both my babies are int he hospital 3 rooms apart. Preston is not on oxygen and getting antibiotics everyday for 7 days. This is standard procedure for Pneumonia. Lily will be in for 3 to 5 days they said. We will know more about her once they started weaning the oxygen and she can breath on her own.
Please keep our family in your prayers and I hope no one ever has to go through the horror that we have gone through.
We have had people ask how they can help. The best help people can offer us right now is meals. We are switching off at the hospital. Aaron's mom and grandma are up there now and Aaron and I came home to sleep, eat and shower. It helps alot when there is food here and we don't have to cook or eat out.
Staci

Poor Lily!

She has been congested since Saturday. I started using saline drops in her nose and sucking out the gross stuff with the nasal aspirator. She didn't get better and started getting fussy about midnight so I called the doctor. He said that the saline and the nasal aspirator were the right things to do and to also start rubbing Vick's Vaporub on her chest. We also got a vaporizer and put it in the room and we have been keeping her elevated. These were all the instructions given to us from the Doctor. He said that's about all we can do since they are so little and they don't give antibiotics for babies this small or young. I took her to the Doctor today just to be sure that nothing has gotten into her lungs or that it isn't RSV. He said it's just an upper respiratory infection and to continue with the home remedies we have been doing. I am so grateful that they seem to be working. It's hard when they are so little and they get sick and stuffy. I got a flu shot while we were at the doctor. I figured it couldn't hurt. I have never had one but I also never had to worry about premature babies getting every germ we bring into our world.
Breastfeeding has been put on the back burner for now until I can get these babies well. They get breast milk at every feeding but I mix formula with it also. Right now they eat 3 oz at each feeding and 2 oz of that is breast milk. I know it is tough but I am keeping at it. Oh and Lily weighs 6 lbs 7.5 oz. BIG GIRL!!!!
Mama Jean has been great. She made gumbo on Saturday and tonight she made baked chicken. I don't know what I will do when all this help leaves and I have to start taking care of all this on my own. I guess that's the real world though.

love, Staci

I know it has been a while.....

but at least I have a good excuse. The babies are doing good. We all are. The babies are growing like crazy. They are on their way to being fully breastfed. They eat every 4 hours and I breastfeed but also give them a bottle afterwards since they still act hungry. It will take some adjusting.
We had a great Thanksgiving. We went to my sister's and had tons of food. It was so great to get out and spend time with my family. I just love hanging out with them. Some people don't like their families. Mine are my most favorite people. Aaron's Mama Jean (gma) came on Friday to spend the week with me while Aaron is in Scotland. He leaves Sunday and will be back on Saturday. She has already been a big help with feeding and taking care of the babies. Right now she is cooking gumbo..... yum!!!!
I have uploaded more pics onto our web album. I am just going to put all the pics there since it is so easy and the link will be on the left side of the blog.
I haven't really taken that many pics of them. It seems when all you do is eat, sleep and change diapers the day goes so fast.
All about the babies: I don't see much of their personalities yet. Lily is laid back and patient. Preston is the cryer, when it is time to eat he will let you know. Lily has had a few reflux episodes where she throws up everything. and it comes out her nose. This has only happened 3 times but it's enough to scare the crap out of me. We have been making sure she burps and keep her elevated after she eats. They both do well at night after each feeding we rock them or sooth them back to sleep and they go down pretty good. It's nice to be feeding every 4 hours.
Ok well that's all for now.
Take care- Staci

Lots of pictures

Here are all the pics in our baby web album. We will be adding more so check the album often.
http://picasaweb.google.com/stactheacetx/Babies

Dr visit: We took the babies to the Dr on Tuesday to be weighed and checked out. The weigh 5 lbs 7 oz for Lily and 5 lbs 8 oz for Preston they gained more than the Dr thought they would. He said he was impressed and that next week when they are 3 weeks old they should be over 6 lbs and we can start feeding every 4 hours instead of every 3. That will be a huge help for the night time feedings especially with Aaron going back to work. They are already eating over 2 oz at each feeding. They average about 70 ml. They won't have to go back to the Dr until January when they will be 2 months old to get their shots. : (
We have been doing well the past 2 weeks. We try to sleep as much as possible. Aaron's mom was here the first week and was a huge help. She did laundry, cooked dinner and helped with the babies. I don't know what we would have done without her. Thanks NANA!!! Aaron will be leaving the Sunday after Thanksgiving to go to Aberdeen and we have enlisted Mama Jean (his gma) to come stay with me to help. I am not ready to tackle the babies by myself 24/7. I can't wait for Mama Jean to see the babies she is going to love and kiss them so much. : D
That's about all for now. We can't wait until Thanksgiving. YUM!!!!

Staci

Waking babies II

Waking babies

Preston's bath pics

Yes that is a pink towel. :)

Lily's bath time

More pictures

All dressed up to go the the Dr.



They really are so peaceful together.

Pictures, pictures!!!!

Preston with his big yawn.

So tired....


They missed each other!


Lily can I suck your nose?


Awww they are so cute!

Lily's home!!!!!

I am so in love. With both babies now home there is a sense of relief that has come over our home. Our family feels so calm and complete. She was released about 4:30 today, just in time for rush hour traffic!! When we got home we got settled and fed both babies. We put them down together in their cradle and they have done really well. They missed each other. Aunt Tasha came over for a visit and got to feed them. She took some great pics that I will put up when she sends them. I have not had a chance to take any pics, I know crazy huh!!! I have however managed to go through the pile of paperwork and the numerous bags that we got from the hospital. I promise I will take some pics and get them put up.
Love, Staci

We are home but Lily had to stay :(

We are home with Preston. Both babies were doing well and moved to the general nursery on Friday. On Saturday they said Lily was having problems keeping her temperature stable so she probably wouldn't go home with us. They let both babies stay in the room with me until it was time to go. They came and got Lily and took her back to the nursery and we took Preston home. It was so hard leaving her there. Today she is doing a little better maintaining her temp. We aren't sure when she will be able to join us at home though. Maybe Tuesday. I am so grateful though that both babies are healthy and have not had any problems. Lily was on oxygen for only a few hours after she was born and her temp problems aren't anything major. They have tested her for infection and illness. The Dr says she is just premature and her skin is thin. We did go visit her today and that was hard too, actually it was hard to leave.. Nana stayed home with Preston he is pretty easy since all he does is eat and sleep.
Our first night home with Preston was good. I was so worried that the time change would mess his schedule up but it didn't we just adjusted it by 30 mins or so. He eats every 3 hours at 3,6,9 and 12. Lily is on the same schedule in the hospital. We have to wake him up to eat since he is small all he wants to do is sleep. He has a minimum intake of 20 ml within a 20 min period. If he goes over 20 mins then he is burning more calories to eat than he is taking in. So when we start feeding him we have to make sure he stays awake. I have been able to feed breast milk but they don't have the sucking ability yet to fully breast feed so I have been pumping and splitting the milk between the 2. We took some to the hospital when we went today. Hopefully that will help Lily get her temp up to come home. The first night was pretty easy with 1 hopefully it won't be too bad with 2.
It is almost feeding time so take care until next time.

love, Staci

Lily's video

I have been trying to upload her video all night but for some reson it's not working. I will try later. We are probably all going home today so I am trying to get ready for that.

Love, Staci

Lily's video

She was only 6 hours old. hehe

Videos of the babies

Preston's video

Babies, Babies!!!

Our babies are here!!!!! We delivered our twins on Halloween 10-31, at 11:09 am and 11:11 am. Preston was born first at 11:09 and Lily was born at 11:11. I will start from the beginning. We called the hospital at 5:30 am on Wed to make sure my bed was available. It was and the nurse asked if we could be at the hospital by 7:15 am. We got here at 6:15am. They were surprised we were so early but we were ready and wanted to get here before traffic got too bad. Once we got here and got into our room they started filling out the paperwork and getting iv's started. Dr K came in about 8 and checked me at that time I was 4 cm dilated and Preston's water broke while he was checking me. We waited a little bit and watched the monitors that showed the heart rates and my contractions. Apparently I was contracting but didn't feel them. I had to be put on Magnesium Sulfate to try and stabilize my blood pressure and prevent seizures that was shooting up like a rocket. About 9:30 they started the Pitocin to induce labor and about 10:30 I got the epidural. Boy am I glad the epidural came when it did because the contractions were getting worse and PAINFUL!!!!! I told the nurse I felt pressure and felt kind of weird and she checked and I was ready really ready, so ready that my parents were coming into the room as I was being wheeled out all I said was hi and bye. Once we got to the OR things happened so fast. There were so many people and running around it was hard to keep track. All I really remember is the Dr telling me to push and Preston was out in 2 pushes. Then 2 minutes later Lily was out. I do remember hearing both of their cries. I also remember looking at Aaron and seeing his joyful expression! It was awesome. Oh and I did not have a c section. Whooo hooo!!! I was really nervous about that. They deliver in the OR just in case something goes wrong. After delivery I saw the babies for a brief moment when they brought them back into the delivery room. Preston I got to hold because he didn't need oxygen but Lily had her oxygen (astronaut) helmet on so I just got to touch her. Once they took me to the recovery room it took a while to get my blood pressure back down. I had to stay on the magnesium until Wed. night. It got up to 176 over something at one point. I was diagnosed with Toxemia. Everyone got to go and see the babies in the NICU while I recovered. They said once I got to my private room and the epidural wore off I could see them. So at 6 pm I got to go see the babies. I can't believe how small they are. I expected them to be small but their faces are so little. Of course they are the cutest babies in the world. Seriously...................they are! Lily was on oxygen until Wed night and both were under the warmer until Thur afternoon. Ashley even got to see them before me. They have visiting hours for siblings at 4 pm on Wed. If they would not have been born on Wed. she would have had to wait. I am sure once they get home she won't be able to put them down either. Today both babies are in open cribs, breathing on their own, feeding every 3 hours and doing great. In fact they just got moved to the general nursery. Now they can come in our room and people can see them through the windows. We haven't had them in the room yet because Preston is getting circumcised at 4 and he has to have an hour to be monitored. I am still having blood pressure issues but things are looking better. I am on blood pressure medication twice a day and today it has been lower. So I guess it just needed time to stabilize after delivery. I could have been discharged today but since the babies might come home tomorrow the Dr let me stay one more day so we can all go home together. It has been a crazy time between the nurses coming in, trying to go see the babies and now I am pumping. Oh and I forgot I have to eat too. HA!!!! I am sure that once we get home it will be crazier. All I want to do is hold the babies though. Aaron and I go in the nursery and we just sit there and hold them. We both look at each other and say ok we better go before we fall asleep in here. As of right now we are all doing well. Hopefully we can all go home tomorrow.
Preston weighed 5 lbs 3 oz, 18 in long and Lily weighed 4 lbs 13 oz, 17 3/4 in long.

Thank you for all the thoughts and prayers!!! We can't wait to get these babies home and show them off to everyone.
Love Staci and Aaron.

ASHLEY'S BIRTHDAY

Today our daughter turned 13. Wow twins on the way and a 13 yr old. Fun, fun, fun!!! Friday we went to dinner at a hibachi grill. Her choice and her favorite. Today we finally let her open her presents. She has been guessing for months what it could be and you know what she never guessed the right one. We got her a Nintendo Wii and Guitar Hero III. She and Aaron have been playing since she got home from tumbling. It's pretty awesome plus it will give her something to do once the babies come. I don't want her to feel like she is the babysitter. Aaron got a new toy too. He got a Paul Reed Smith guitar. He has been wanting it for a really long time. It's so beautiful. You ask what I get? I get 2 people who have taken care of me and put up with me for the last 9 months. Here is a picture with both of them playing.

Getting ready......

Either it's all in my head or my body is just ready. Nesting has kicked into overdrive. I have called the pediatrician, called the hospital, and got a list of email address' together so Aaron can send out a mass email once the babies are born. The pediatrician said once the babies are born they will be seen by the on call Dr at the hospital. They will be seen by Dr Garza for any follow ups needed. The nurse just said call and they will get us in. She was so nice. Dr Garza is the same pedi that Jakob and Kate go to. He has been referred by lots of the moms of multiples too. As for the hospital I have to call on Wed morning at 5:30 am and ask if they have a bed available, if so we will have to be there by 7:30. If not they will call when one is available. If it gets too late I will just go in and say I am having pressure or something. It says on my instructions not to eat or drink anything after midnight tomorrow. Sorry but if I am not guaranteed a time to go in I am eating something especially if I call and there isn't a bed. We are also getting the Explorer this weekend. Aaron is going to ride back to Louisiana with his dad and drive the Explorer back. Talk about last minute. It's cool though we have a car for the babies to come home in so were good. I am sure tomorrow I will not be able to sleep at all.
Take care, love Staci

6 days!!!

What happens in 6 days you ask? Halloween of course............... and the babies will be born!!!!! When I went to the Dr today he said both babies are head down, that's right Lily flipped around. I am 2 cm dilated so he wants to move my induction date to 10-31-07. Boo babies!!! Preston weighs 5 lbs 7 oz and Lily weighs 5 lbs 5 oz. We are so excited that in 6 days we will finally meet our bundles. Of course everyone is betting I will go into labor before then since I am 2 cm dilated... I guess we will have to wait and see. Now I am wondering if there is anything else I need to do around here before they get here. I think we are all ready. It seems so real now. I can't wait.

Oh we got a 4d ultrasound of Preston but Lily was not cooperating. I can't tell from the us if he has any hair. At least we will have some surprises on the day they are born.

New belly pic, hiccups and more!

I know everyone just loves seeing the belly grow. I don't think it sticks out as far. Maybe I am dropping. Tonight after Ashley's game we were on the way home and I felt hiccups again. This time it was Lily and Aaron & Ashley got to feel them too. It is so cool how there are little people inside my belly.
Today I got the changing table all set up for all those diaper changes. I put some clothes, diapers and other necessities on there. I also have a shelf in the dining room with the same necessities. I figure the less running from room to room to get clothes, blankets and diapers the better. I am sure what I need will always be in another room though, isn't that how it usually works out?!?!?

Here is a pic of the changing table:

My next Dr appt is Thursday. If there are no changes he will schedule me to be induced on 11-5-07. Yippy!!! Now if there are changes such as I am dialated or my blood pressure has gone up he will admit me. We will wait and see. I will surely let ya know.

Love, Staci

Preston's hiccups

I woke up this morning at my usual time, 6 am to wake Ashley up. After waking Ashley up I went back to bed and kept feeling this movement in my belly. I thought it was just kicks but it was constant. Then I thought it was a heartbeat but too slow. I put my hand on my belly and it was Preston, he had hiccups!!! It lasted about 5 minutes until I feel back asleep. It was so cool. That is the first time either of them have had hiccups. I can't wait to finally hold these babies.
Love,
Staci

Baby space

Here is the video of where the babies will be for the first few months. If they out grow the cradle then we will put the crib in the room.

We are so close!

Ok went to the Dr today. The babies are so big!!! 4 lbs 8 oz each. Yup they weigh the same. I go back in 10 days, next Thur. Everything looks good, blood pressure, babies, weight. He said the next time we go in he will check my cervix and will probably schedule me to be induced on 11-5-07. 3 weeks from today!!!! My cervix is getting shorter it's at 2.65, 2 weeks ago it was at 2.9. I am right where I am supposed to be. Oh and I gained 3 lbs. Total weight gain is 42 lbs. Yea that's right I weigh 185 lbs. CRAZY!!!
I am so excited, we are so ready!!!! I have a video of where the babies will be sleeping for the first few months but have tried uploading it twice with no luck.
I will try later.
Love,
Staci

Ashley Post

I just have to brag on Ashley she is on the spirit squad at school and is one of the captain's. We went to her game tonight and took a little video to share. She had a blast!!!!

Finally a new belly pic

32 weeks and finally a new belly pic. Am I big or what?!?!? My next Dr appt is 10-15 I can't wait. I bet the babies are close to 4.5 to 5 lbs. I hope so anyway. My eating has gone way down between the heartburn and small space I can't eat too much. We went car shopping on Saturday, yay!! If everything works out we may have a 2004 Ford Explorer.

4 more weeks to go. We are so ready, even Aaron commented that he is ready for the babies to come. We say that now just wait until they get here. HAHA!!! This is going to be so much fun.

Love,

Staci

Baby carrying machine

Everything is well. Aaron said I was a baby carrying machine. I have gained 4 lbs. Lily weighs 3 lbs 12 oz and Preston weighs 3 lbs 13 oz. Total weight gain is 39 lbs. I can't believe I have gained 39 lbs and I am still able to walk and I don't even complain (that often) The Dr said everything looks so good there is no reason to come every week. So I am still every 2 weeks. Which is ok since he is confident that I am doing so well. He is still thinking 36 weeks. I am pretty sure I will make it. I am not having any real problems except back pain but I can control that by relaxing. My feet swell if I stay on them too long but that is rare. They swelled today a little just because I was out going to the Dr. In all the multiples books I have been reading it says twins slow down around 32 weeks so I will be anxious to see how much weight they gain the next visit at 33 weeks.
I can't believe I only have about 5 more weeks to go. We are so ready!!!

Love,
Staci

Our week.....

Our week was good. Monday I did my usual resting and eating. Tuesday I went to Wal Mart to return something and buy a night gown for the hospital, then went to Whataburger. YUM!!! I also went to the school to pick Ashley up and started talking to the counselors secretary, who's daughter is 5 months pregnant with twins. I gave her one of the moms of multiples cards to give to her daughter, hopefully she can get some advice. She's gonna need it. Anyway after talking to her for an hour it was time to go. I have been getting all kinds of stares and questions lately. I can't imagine why?!?!?!? Wed rest and relax. Thur I went to Tasha's to visit her and the kiddos. Kate is walking and getting so big, she is all over the place. Jakob is so cute also! He loves Aunt Staci and my water. Friday Michelle called and said she was in the area so she picked me up and we went to lunch, Marshall's and Costco. It was nice to get out. When we went to Costco as soon as we went in the greeter said "when is the baby due?" Michelle said "November 4th" in her none of your business tone. She cracks me up!
So Monday I have my Dr appt Monday! Yay I love going to the Dr. I hope the babies weigh close to 4 lbs. I have been trying to eat as much as possible but it's getting really hard with the growing belly and heartburn. Ashley is in spirit squad at school. They practice Tues and Thur from 2:30 to 4:30. Plus she has tumbling on Mon and Wed . She is going to be so busy. Spirit squad just started so we don't know how that is going to work out. The school had a hard time finding a coach that would commit to the girls. Now that the season is almost over I think they got it all together.
OK more Monday after the Dr.

Love, Staci

Look at that belly

Wow it's so big. I feel it too. My back is killing me. Everything is going well though. I know I need to keep these babies in as long as possible. I really don't have much to report. Our weekend was good. Ashley had a friend stay over Friday night and we took them to ride bumper boats and go karts. Well I went and watched, Aaron rode with them. Saturday night Ashley spent the night at her other friends house. Today we went to church and Aaron is cooking a gumbo!!!! YUM!!!!

Only 6 more weeks. Yippy!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Staci

Dr Update

Everything looks good. Lily is 3 lbs and Preston is 3 lbs and 3 oz. They are measuring ahead by about a week. I didn't gain any weight but the Dr said that's ok, I have gained 35 lbs and the babies are gaining. We have a little bit better idea of how this whole labor and delivery thing will work too. I told the Dr I would like to deliver naturally if possible, he said it is possible. He will continue to look at the babies positions and determine as it gets closer. He said if I haven't gone into labor on my own by 36 weeks he will induce. Unless something happens and the babies can't be delivered naturally he will do a c section then. Ok so it may not be that clear but he does know we want a natural delivery. So either way 7 weeks to go. I go back in 2 weeks and for sure after that every week. I am sure I can make it to 36 weeks as long as I continue to rest and take it easy. It really is going by fast. The weather has been nice too. I can not wait until the cool, crisp breeze of FALL!!!!! Remember cool fronts and less humidity? Oh yea I can not wait. These next few weeks will be a piece of cake. (I will remind myself that I said this in a few weeks.) hehe
OK more later.

Love, Staci

P.S~
I changed the baby ticker to reflect our goal of 11-4-07. It doesn't seem so far away when it say 1 month, 2 weeks and 4 days!

Whew what a weekend......

I had a full day of rest, relaxation and doing absolutely nothing. We stayed over Dustin and Tasha's Friday until about midnight visiting with them and Chris and Deanna. Saturday we went to Kate's birthday party and stayed over until about 9 pm. I was exhausted this morning when I woke up. It was so great to see everyone at Kate's birthday party. All the kids are getting so big and they are all so cute. Next year our family gatherings will be even crazier with the twins.
I have a Dr appointment tomorrow so will update more then.
Staci

Passed my 3 hour

The nurse called and I passed my 3 hour glucose test. I will ask her on Monday if I was just borderline or if there is anything in my diet I should change? I don't know much about GD so I will ask. Just a quick update.
Take care- Staci

Glucose update

The glucose test went well. I got there at 7:40 and they drew my blood then I drank this sweet drink. At 8:40, 9:40 and 10:40 they drew my blood again. So yes I had to stay at Quest Labs for 3 hours. It wasn't too bad but the chairs were uncomfortable. I should get the results by the time I go to the Dr on Monday. Hopefully!! It's gonna suck if I have gestational diabetes that's means no more sugar. Not that I eat alot but pancakes and ice cream are my favorites. I will surely let ya know when the results come in.

Staci

Glucose test results

I got a call from my Dr's nurse today. I flunked my glucose test. = ( I have an appointment at 7:40 in the morning to go do the 3 hour glucose test. I guess I get to drink the sweet stuff every hour and have my blood drawn every hour? Sounds like fun. I made the appointment for as early as possible because I can't eat or drink ANYTHING after midnight tonight. That's going to be hard because I keep water by my bed and wake up about 5 times a night to drink it. I guess it will be empty tonight. I am also anemic so I have to take some iron supplements. The nurse said none of this surprises her with multiples most woman are anemic. I guess the babies are sucking all my nutrients. My morning tomorrow will be fun filled. Yippy!!!!
I will let ya know what the results are.
Staci

New pic

Since the last pic was at 26 weeks you guys will be surprised how much bigger I am since it has been 2 weeks. I am 28 weeks. I am having Braxton Hicks and back pain, everything else is good. The Dr said don't worry about the Braxton Hicks until they start hurting or getting stronger. He says it's the body's way of preparing for birth. Oh did I mention the pelvic bone pain, yea that hurts too, mainly when I get up from being in the same position for too long. Everything else is pretty much the same. I go back to the Dr on 9-17 at noon. I am sure that both babies will be over 3 lbs. They are so active right now that I feel kicks most of the day, especially when Aaron is playing his guitar or Ashley is playing her saxophone.

This past week I went out to Motherhood Maternity and bought a few shirts. Then I went to the office to visit. It's nice to get out at least once a week for some fresh air.

Take care and I hope everyone has a good week!

Staci

So long.......

It's been so long. I am sorry. Aaron was in Germany last week and my charger to my computer broke. I would have just bought a new one but my husband is so smart I knew he could fix it. I looked at WalMart and the generic brand chargers were $60 bucks!!!! No thank you. Aaron fixed it yesterday. Thanks Radio Shack.
We had a great Labor Day. Aaron's parents enjoyed their visit and I enjoyed them too!!! Aaron's mom is awesome. She was cleaning and cooking. Aaron's dad fixed the guest bed that we broke at the baby shower. We went and ate bbq and went to Dustin and Tasha' s new house. Other than that is was pretty relaxing. Oh and we took Aaron out for his birthday Saturday night when he got home.
Ok the picture that is updated is 26 weeks and I am 27 weeks. I will get a new one up soon. I went to the Dr on Tuesday and he was so excited the babies are doing so well. He examined Preston's brain very thoroughly and doesn't see any type of damage. Preston weighs 2 lbs 7 oz and Lily weighs 2 lbs 8 oz. I have gained 5 lbs and a whopping 35 lbs total. Dr still says 36 weeks, that would be 11-4. So about 2 months away. It seems long (trust me I know) but I also know that the longer the babies stay the healthier they will be. I also did my glucose test and will have the results of that soon. It wasn't too bad. I had to drink this sweet sugary drink then wait an hour and they drew my blood.
Ashley is doing well in school she is still walking home but said her saxophone is hurting her shoulders.
Ok I think I am all caught up.
Love, Staci

Doing better!

We are doing good. Moving on and looking toward the future. Aaron did the hard part, the other day while I was taking a nap he put all of Mason's stuff in a box. So glad he did that otherwise I would just go in the room and dwell on all of his stuff.
Ashley started 7th grade today. She was ready when I woke up and 6:30 am. She ate breakfast, we packed her lunch and then I took her to school. She is so excited. She is going to walk to and from school this year. She isn't allowed to walk to or from alone. I am kind of nervous but trust her to do this. Other wise she will become a bus rider.
Aaron left for Germany yesterday, he will be there all week. He has some meetings and is there with his manager going to some of the facilities. He will be back on Saturday. Momma is coming over tomorrow and staying until Thur so we can go through some baby stuff and get the crib put together. Aaron's parents are coming in Friday for the weekend. I can't wait to spend the weekend with them.
Our ladies ministry at church had a diaper shower yesterday. We got alot of diapers. We are so blessed to be surrounded by such wonderful friends and family.
Well that's about all going on over here.
Love ya'll! Staci

Our angel Mason

We went to the Dr yesterday. He broke the news that Mason didn't make it. He just wasn't getting enough oxygen and nutrients. I know he is looking down on his brother and sister and keeping them growing healthy and strong. Like the Dr said Sometimes it's meant to be to give the others more of a chance to be healthy. Dr Kirshon said this shouldn't have an effect on the other 2 babies. Even though it's hard we need to stay positive for our other 2 babies.
Preston weighs 1 lb 12 oz and Lily weighs 1 lb 9 oz. The Dr said the risk of the pregnancy is very low now and that 36 weeks is term for twins. So it looks like I have a while to go. I have gained a total of 30 lbs with 7 being in the last 2 weeks. I go back to the Dr in 2 weeks and will do a glucose test at that time.
Thank you for your thoughts and prayers.
Love, Staci and Aaron

25 weeks!!!!

25 weeks getting bigger!!!!

Movin and groovin

These babies are moving like crazy all the time. Not too much at night.....thank god!!!! They are moving all over the place and with 3 I can feel it on my sides, top and bottom of my stomach. It's so amazing to feel and watch. I can see them kick on the outside of my belly. I will be so glad when I can hold all three of my little babies.
I am still resting. Tasha and Amy came over today to help me go through baby stuff and get it put up. I am probably going to have Aaron put the crib together this weekend and get our room re arranged to accommodate the babies for the first few months. I can'tbelieve that in just 3 weeks these babies could be born. It's so scary and exciting. Will update more after my appt Monday.
Staci

New belly pic

Here is a new pic. The belly is getting bigger. I have gained a total of 23 lbs with 6 being in the last 2 weeks. I guess staying home is helping.

Dr visit!

We went to the Dr. Preston has gained 6 oz and weighs 1 lb 4 1/2 oz, Mason gained 3 oz and weighs 12 oz, Lily gained 7 oz and weighs 1 lb 4 oz. There is still concern for Mason. He is still so small. We discussed moving our goal up to 26 weeks but realize that would put Preston and Lily at risk to save Mason. We decided to keep our goal at 28 weeks. We know it's still early but all 3 babies will have a better chance of surviving if they all make it to 28 weeks. They may say at 28 weeks I am doing good enough to go to 29, 30 or further. The earliest we would deliver is 28 weeks. We will just have to see. The main thing is that everyone keeps praying for Mason to fight and grow. I go back in 2 weeks. Dr said for now just rest, don't go to the grocery store, do any housework, or heavy lifting. Just rest!
I am kind of scared but we have come this far and I know it's all in god's hands. Mason just needs to hang in there at least 5 more weeks.
Just resting! Staci

Just a little update

Just wanted to say hi and update! I am feelin great. I am getting lots of rest and relaxation. I only left the house twice this week. Once to go to Wal Mart on Tuesday and then Wednesday to eat lunch with the office and to pick up my last paycheck! EEEK!!!! Other than that I have been home just chilling and doing little stuff around here. Ashley has been a huge help. My next Dr. appt is Monday. I don't have any changes to report except the belly is getting BIGGER!!! I will have to put up a pic soon.
I will update after my appt for sure.

Staci

In my spare time

I have been feeling really creative. I decided to do a theme (sort of) in the babies room. I got a valance that goes with the Alphabet soup baby collection. http://www.babyuniverse.com/product_images/pic/281/lk281-2433.jpg Then I got the wall hangings. I decided to make name plaques for all the babies. They turned out really cute. I painted everything and put a clear coat on top, then put all the animals on them. I also got an A, B, C and 1, 2, 3 and painted them to hang on the wall. The sheets are cream colored and the dust ruffle is red. So like I said it's kind of a theme but my own ideas. Once the babies are ready to go in their room it will be so cute for them. Ashley had a blast in Washington DC she got home today. She was so happy to sleep in her own bed. I guess being gone for 10 days you really miss home. We missed her too!!! Aaron will be back Saturday from Scotland. Then I think things will settle down as we get ready for school to start. My next Dr appt is 8-6 at 10:20 am.

take care- love ya- Staci

Dr appt update!

We went to the Dr yesterday. Preston has doubled his weight he was 7 oz now he is 14oz. Lily was 6 oz now she is 13 oz. Mason was 5 oz now he is 9 oz. The Dr is concerned about Mason because he only gained 4 oz and is measuring 10 days behind. There isn't much I can do except continue to eat and rest and hope he continues to fight. I go to the Dr every 2 weeks now with my next appt being 8-6-07. The Dr said the babies have a good chance of surviving if born between 28 to 30 weeks. He would like for me to go as long as possible but it really depends on the babies. I am praying Mason stays strong and keeps fighting.
love,
Staci

Baby Shower!

Where do I begin. We had a great turn out for the babies shower. We got so many nice things, the generosity of everyone was overwhelming. Words can not describe it. We had such a good time with all of our family and friends. The only thing I regret is that I didn't get a chance to talk to everyone. There were so many people. After everyone left we went through all the baby stuff and sorted it bath stuff, socks, bibs etc. I will spend the next few weeks going through and finding a place for everything. I appreciate Deanna, Tasha and Kari for everything they did in pulling this off. They are amazing. I didn't have to worry about anything.
Our house is all clean and back to normal, except for the mountain of baby stuff in the bedroom. Ashley leaves tomorrow for Washington DC. She is so excited. We have spent the day getting her ready. Come Monday I will be sleeping very late. No more work! I am going to have to get used to that.
Take care I have a Dr appt Friday and will fill everyone in after that.
Love,
Staci

Excited for the shower!!!!!!!!!!

I am so excited for the shower!!!!!! We have had a busy weekend. We got new appliances for the kitchen and Aaron & Dustin put them in Friday night. Now we have a nice new dishwasher ready to wash the first bottle. Saturday Aaron made breakfast on the new stove. Then we went to pick up Ashley from Michelle's. I have been nesting like a mad woman. I cleaned out the closet in the babies room and put all the baby stuff that I have received in there. I also cleaned out the closet in our bathroom and in our room. I am trying to get as much space as possible to store diapers, wipes and all the baby stuff we will have. We went and bought a new stroller and all the infant seats today. A lady from my triplet group (Space City Triplets) was selling her Triple Decker & 3 infant seats w/ bases for an awesome price. We were planning to get them so decided to buy from her. We went to her house and she has 19 month old all girl fraternal triplets. It looked like a baby factory in there. It was awesome. The girls were playing and watching tv. Shannon (mom) had a lot of great tips.
The stroller, we will use while the trio is in the infant seats then upgrade to the Foundations triple. Here are examples of both: Triple Decker
http://doubledeckerstroller.com/images-2004/td-triplet.jpg

Foundations:
http://www.stinkybaby.com/foundations-strollers/pics/Foundations-Trio-Triple-Tandem-Stroller-sml.jpg

So far we have the stroller, infant seats, a bouncy chair, swing and an exersaucer.
I am still feeling great. My back has started hurting if I do too much. This week is my last week at work. SO EXCITED!!!! After the shower I plan to stay home and relax and get ready for babies!
Take care until next time- Staci

Joined a mulitples club

I went to the Northwest Houston Moms of Multiples group meeting last night. I had so much fun! The ladies were so informative. We had a meet & greet from 7 to 7:30 then a meeeting. The meeting part was just announcements about some of the moms on bedrest, some who have recently given birth and some who's babies are still in NICU. We then went into groups to have a q & a session. My group was woman who are pregnant along with moms who have multiples up to 6 months. There were alot of twin moms. I only met one mom who was pregnant with triplets and she is 15 weeks. We compared pregnancies and talked a little. I am the 13th triplet mom to join. I am the only one with identicals plus a fraternal. There are 144 members of the group. We will meet on the 3rd Thur of every month and every month there is a different agenda. Next month will be nutrition. They will probably bring in a speaker to talk about baby nutrition. They also have playgroups varying by ages that meet weekly. The group is a great place to meet moms and get questions answered. Everyone was really friendly!!! I met a lady who graduated from Aaron's high school (Cecelia High School) She said her mom lives on Guidry Rd in LA which is the road Aaron's grandparents live on. Small world huh?!?!?!?!

Staci

Feelin great!

Went to the Dr today. Ashley went with me since Aaron is in Scotland. She got to see the babies on the ultrasound screen. They were very active this morning and jumping all around. We still have 2 boys and a girl. THey are all weighing between 5 and 7 oz. So growing right along. The Dr checked my feet and legs to make sure I don't have any swelling which I don't since I stay off my feet most of the day. I have gained 12 pounds. I thought that was not too much but the Dr said that's great as long as the babies are getting what they need, which they are, then I should keep doing what I am doing which is eat and take it easy. I don't get to go back until 4 weeks this time he said everything looked so good that 4 weeks will do. Kind of sad because I have to wait so long. I am spolied to seeing the babies every 3 weeks. We got awesome pics this time. Baby A and B are they twins and baby C is the girl. Baby B and C we got profile pics and baby A face pic. It's kind of scary looking (the face pic) The pictures are clickable so if you want to get a close up just click the picture! 3 more weeks until I get to stay home!!!!

Staci

4 MONTHS!!!

I will be 4 months tomorrow. We got all registered and the baby shower invitations are out. Registering was pretty overwhelming. There is so much stuff. I have been feeling good. Aaron left today to go to Scotland for 10 days. I have a Dr appt on Wed to check on everything. I hope they still say there are 2 boys and a girl. I am so anxious for the babies to get here and hope everything goes well with them.

Staci

WE KNOW THE GENDER!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

We went to the Dr. on Friday and he asked if we wanted to know the sex!!! Yea of course we said. I really thought it was too early. We are so excited. The names are Preston John, Mason Thomas and Lillian (Lily) Marie. Although I have not mentioned Lillian Marie to my grandmother. I will next time I see her. I guess I should ask her if she minds that I use her name. I also turned my notice in at work.I will officially quit on 7-13-07 at 20 weeks. I am so excited to be able to be home resting and waiting for the babies.

Hi there. Wow twice in one week. It's amazing. I am anxiously awaiting nana and pops arrival. I am so excited to see them. We have a busy weekend planned. We are paiting Ashley's room and the babies room. We also have Jakob's 3rd birthday!! The baby shower has been changed to 7-14 because Ashley is going to Washington DC and will be back on 7-25th. She is so excited. Michelle and Chris are taking her there for 10 days. She will be a huge help to Chris with Jordan while Michelle is working. Oh I don't know if I posted this before but the twins we have are identical and they are called monochorionic-diamniotic. This means they are in one placenta and have 2 amniotic sacs. Chorionic=placenta and amniotic=amniotic sac.

Staci

12 weeks!!!!!

I know I know my bloging skills suck. I posted a new ultrasound pic. I have been released from the fertility Dr. and stopped all medication except the prenatal pills, calcium and folic acid. I still have a buffet of pills I take every morning. 6 per day. It will all be worth it though when these babies are born healthy. What else has happened? Let me see. I started going to the perinatal Dr. I am not going to continue with my OB I don't see any point to see 2 Dr's when Dr Kirshon (perinatal) is more than qualified to care for me and the babies and deliver. We got to hear all the babies heartbeats. Twin A was 174 beats per minute, Twin B was 154 and Baby C was 155. We went and saw him on 5-17 and he is so awesome. We were very impressed. He said I can continue to work until I get too big and uncomfortable. Which is usually around 20 to 24 weeks. I am hoping to work as long as possible. Deanna and Tasha have planned my Texas baby shower for 7-21-07 I am really looking forward to that. We are in the process of redoing Ashley's room. We went and bought her a desk, dresser and night stand this weekend. This week we will go and get her bed stuff. Memorial weekend nana and papa are coming in to help paint. I promise to update more often.

Staci

Cuttin down on the meds!!!

We went to the fertility Dr. this monring. I can now do progesterone shots every other day instead of every day. I don't have to take the estrogen pills or keep putting on the patches either. I am starting to be a normal pregnant person. By next Monday all meds should stop except the prenatal vitamin, fish oil and baby aspirin. I will take those until the end. Hope you enjoy the new slide show. I will update it with more pics soon.

Staci

WE HAVE 3 HEARTBEATS!

We went this morning and baby #3 heart is beating. She is still measuring a week behind but she is growingand staying strong. We are going to the beachhouse this weekend for some much needed relaxation and Dawn's wedding. We have only begun our triplet journey. I am so anxious to see what the following months bring.

Staci

And then there were 3

We went for an ultrasound this morning hoping to hear 1 heartbeat. Imagine our shock when we saw 2. Then the nurse moved the ultrasound and we saw another sac with one in it. The one by itself is small and there isn't a heartbeat. It's only measuring 5 weeks and I am 6 weeks. So for sure identical twins and maybe triplets. Shock doesn't even begin to explain it.
Staci

Ok so the blinkies say it all. I am finally pregnant. We started another IVF on 2-25-07. I took the shots for 12 days and did the HCG trigger shot on 3-10-07. I had the egg retrieval on 3-12 and egg transfer on 3-15-07. This time they only got 5 eggs and 2 fertilized. We were so worried this cycle would be a bust. They transferred a 4 cell and 8 cell. I have a pic at home I will have to upload it. I went to the Dr. on 3-23 and they said my #'s looked good (hcg level 116). I decided to take a home pregnancy test on 3-25 and it was positive. SO of course I tested again on 3-26, 3-27 and 3-28. My official pregnancy test at the Dr. was on 3-29-07 and the hcg level was 385. Aaron's parent's, Ali and Presley came in to visit so we told them the good news. By Monday night I had told everyone. I am not good at keeping secrets. 4-2-07 I went back for more bloodwork and the hcg level is 2246. That's really a good #. Tomorrow is my first ultrasound and we will be able to see how many we have in there. Aaron and Ashley are so excited. We are still nervous and pray everything continues to go well.
Due date 12-2-07
Aaron, Staci and Ashley

Feelin better

We went for our consult today. The Dr says that my body just rejected the embryos. They are gonna run an antinuclear antibody test, prolactin and TSH (thyroid) tests. From these tests they will be able to see if there any abnormalities. They will adjust my protocol accordingly. They usually prescribe steroids or baby aspirin to help with implantation. I feel alot more positive. Once my body gets back to 'normal' we will be able to try again. I want to go back to Curves and try to lose some of the pounds I put on. I gained 7 pounds while doing this.
Dr. Gill is so awesome and such a blessing he is really dedicated and said it's his goal to get us pregnant. Gill suggested we start with a fresh cycle and not waste time with the one frozen that we have. If this next cycle takes and we have some to freeze he will bank at the same location as the one which we can use later on. He has offered to waive his fee for our fresh cycle which brought me to tears. All we will have to pay for id the hospital and medicine. He is truly amazing. I think the first run was just a trial as sad as it is we learned from it and will move forward. I will keep everybody informed as to what we are doing. As for now I am getting the house and our lives back in order.
Love you all and thank you so much for being there I don't what I would do without you.
Staci

The worst news ever.....

I got the call yesterday around 1 pm. Thank god I was on my lunch break. The nurse said she had bad news and that the pregnancy test was negative. I never expected to hear those words. I guess I knew it was possible but everything seemed so perfect. They were going to do a test Wednesday but the numbers were so low Monday that there was no need for another test. We are just gonna move on and see what the future holds. We have a consult appt. Wednesday to speak with the dr to find out what he thinks went wrong. We will probably try again at this point I just don't know when.
Staci

Nothing new

I have been trying to keep busy and not think about testing. We are going to Austin to visit Chris and Deanna this weekend so that will be fun. I did get a report from the doctor that only one embryo made it far enough to be frozen. So we have one little snow baby. I wish the sun would come out. Not much else to report over here in the 2 week wait.

Staci

I'm free

I will finally be off bed rest tomorrow. Wow have I been bored out of my mind. Aaron has been great cooking, cleaning , taking care of Kiki and Ashley. I did get to watch a few movies The Devil Wears Prada and The Break Up loved them both. We went to the dr today and it took like 10 minutes all they did was draw blood.They are checking Estrogen, Progesterone and HCG levels. I guess to make sure my body continues to be a good, heathly environment for the babies. I started an Estrogen patch that I will replace every 3 days. I go back Monday for more bloodwork. I can't wait to get out of the house tomorrow and breath freash air.
Staci

Now comes the waiting game.

We went to the hospital at 6:30 am and there were no problems, no ice nothing. We were worried last night though. We got to the hospital and met with the Dr and he advised us to put back 3 only because it would increase our chances of at least having one. So we put back 3. Out off the 7 we got 6 of them were 8 cells (the best) I think maybe one was 6 cell but that's still good. We put in 3 8 cells. If the rest make it to Friday we will freeze the rest. He says the chances of triplets are 5% so hopefully won't be that 5%. They gave us a picture of the 3 they put in. They already look just like us. HA!!! Aaron has been great he made lasagna last night so we would have leftovers today. He has been treating me like th eprincess he knows I really am. Really he has been very sweet. Bed rest for 3 days. Off to sleep of this Valium now.
Staci

The night before

Well here we are the night before as Aaron says, I get knocked up! I am finally getting nervous. It really has happened so fast. I went a got a full body massage tonight. I feel so relaxed. Hopefully the 'Ice Storm' won't keep us from getting to the hospital in the morning. I did my first Progesterone shot tonight. I put ice on the spot for like 10 minutes then put the Progesterone in warm water for a little bit to get it warm. The shot itself wasn't bad and neither was the oil going it. I have been rubbing it to get it all worked in so it doesn't get lumpy. We have to be at the hospital at 7 am. Then it's bedrest for 3 days when we get home. I am sure by Friday I will have cabin fever. I have plenty of magazines, movies and of course my computer to keep me busy. If worse comes to worse I can always sleep and we all know I love that. I will update as soon as I know how many they have transferred and all the other details.
Love,
Staci

We have 8 kids....

HAHAHA!!! The nurse called and said they retrieved 11 eggs and 7 fertilized. Now they will just wait until Wed to see how well the 7 grow. On Wed they will let us know which ones are top grade and we will decide how many to put back and how many are well enoguh to freeze. So until further notice we have 7 embryos and Ashley makes 8.
Staci
*keep warm*

Our babies are now in the lab!

I had my ER this morning. Wow 5:30 am came early. We had to be at the hospital by 6 am. Once we got checked in we went to a room and I feel back alseep. About 7 am a nurse came and got me into another bed and wheeled me to the post op recovery room. That's where they hooked up the IV and I saw the RE and the anesthesiologist and they asked more questions. About 8:15 am they took me into the operating room. They put oxygen on me and then I heard someone say "your gonna feel a little sting and something cold" That was it I woke up in the recovery room about 8:45. I was a little confused when I was talking to the nurse, I kept asking her the same questions. Once they got the IV out and I got dressed we went home. The nurse told me the initial count was 10 and they would call me tomorrow with the fertilization report. I am feeling a little sore down there but not too much. I have been sleeping and relaxing since we got home. Our little babies are in the lab growing big and strong. Tonight on National Geographis is In the Womb: Multiples!!!
Staci
*burrrr it's cold outside*

No more hormones!!!

My nurse called and I will trigger (hcg shot) tonight at 8:30 pm on the dot!!!!! NO MORE STIMS!!!! My Egg Retrieval will be Sunday, we have to be at the hospital at 7 am. Tuesday I will start Progesterone and Medrol. Wednesday will be the embryo transfer date. In my excitement I forgot to ask what the size of the follicles were. I guess I will find out Sunday or Monday. I did find out my Estrogen is 2300. I just put on my work calendar that I will be off Wed, Thur and Friday!!!! So bed rest for me. Whooo hoooo. I will be getting some R & R.
I can't believe it has happened so fast. I never would have imagined that in June. When I found out we had to do IVF I was like in January what!!!! that's so far a way. I have to tell Aaron that I appreciate his patience these past few days I know I have been a real bitch at times. Ashley is with my parents at the farm this weekend. At least she won't have to deal with me yelling at her anymore. Sorry honey it was the hormones, I promise. :)
Staci

We are so close

I went to the dr again this morning for another ultrasound and more bloodwork. I call the nurse Vampire now. I have been feeling some pressure and the nurse said it's because my ovaries are the size of golf balls. WOWzer that's big. She said up to the day of retrieval they will be the size of small oranges. That is so funny to me but I am sure it's gonna be painful. So anyway..... There are 10 follilcles measuring 10 mm or more and 2 measuring less than 10mm. My Estrogen is looking good, it's at 1632. The nurses are really excited because they say I am right where I need to be. The retreival will probably be on Sunday or Monday. With an estimated transfer on Wednesday. Then bedrest for 3 days.
Unfortunately I don't think I will make it to LA for Ali's baby shower. I am pretty sad since I wanted to be able to be there for her and see all the cool baby stuff she will get. I know she understands though.
My next appt is on Friday whooo hoooo we are getting so close now!!!
Staci

Higher numbers and more Follicles

The nurse called today and went over the numbers. She decreased my Repronex to 75 ml since it contains lh and fsh hormones. My FSH is 23.5 so it's right where it needs to be. The Follistim contains LH that will continue to grow the follicles. Estrogen is at 800 (this is good since they want each follicle to be at least 100) As for the follicles there are 2 on the left that are measuring 10 mm and 3-5 on the right that measure less than 10 mm. Follicles contain the eggs and there is no way to determine the amont of eggs until the retrieval process. They want the follicles to grow at a rate of 2 mm per day. By Wednesday they should be bigger and probably by Saturday or Sunday we will do the retreival. I am learning so much about this process.
So are you confused yet?!?!?!?
Staci

I did it!!!!

I did the shot last night all by myself. It wasn't bad at all. I did it on my right side. I don't think I would have been able to do my left since I am right handed I would have felt weird. I can't wait to go to the dr on Monday to see if my follicles are growing. I just get so nervous. The nurse said everything looks good though but don't they always say that? To be continued......
Staci

Still the same

Went to the dr and everything is "normal" My dosages are remaining the same. My Estrogen level is 162 and rising so I guess that's good. I will continue the meds through the weekend and go back in Monday morning. Aaron had to go to Lafayette so I will be doing my own shot tonight. EEEEEKK!!!! I will let ya know how that goes.
Staci

Toosh a little sore

Ok the first night the shot was in the left side. Last night in the right. My right is a little sore not bad just uncomfortable. I am sure it will get better. It has too right? Thank you for all the sweet comments. I am diggin this blog thing. I have an appt in the morning for an ultrasound to look at the follicles. How exciting!!!
Staci

The shots begin

We started the injections last night. So far so good. Last night was a little stressful because we didn't know what size needle to use. Once we got it straight it was cool. A little update. I started Lupron on 12-26-06 then had to wait to cycle then went to the dr on 1-2-07. That's when they gave us the OK to start the shots. I think we stay on the shots for 10 days before they will go in and get the follicles. I will be monitored every other day to make sure the follicles are growing normal. I never thought I would be doing this. We are learning alot and growing closer as a couple. Stay tuned.....