Saturday, May 7, 2011

Birth Story Part 2

A few hours after getting started on the all the meds, I started feeling pretty nauseous.   I have been told that labor can make you sick to your stomach, but this was pretty bad.  I was unable to sit up, turn over, or lay completely flat without vomitting.  My nurse explained this was unusual and I must be reacting to all of the medications I was given.  To makek matters worse, the baby wasn't super happy about what was going on.  Each time I had a contraction, or threw up,  the babies heart rate would drop dramatically, but then as soon as it was over it was back up again.  This was concerning but we decided to continue with the labor as see how it goes. 
20 hours of labor later,  Dr. Blackett was there and we began to really get worried about the baby.  His heart rate was dropping much lower and he was having a harder time recovering after each contraction.  I was a mess, sick and exhausted, and my epidural just wasn't working so the labor was getting really difficult.  at about 9:45 am Monday morning we opted for a C-Section so I was prepped and rolled into the ER.  Because I had an epidural they did the numbing for the C-Section this way, which apparently isn't how it is done for nomral C-Sections, but it did work for most of the surgery.  The Doctors were amazing and and really made me feel comfortble,  Dr. Blackett and Dr. Norda did the surgery and we laughing and joking the whole time, making it easier for me.

Birth Story According to Me: Part 1

It all started Thursday when I had gone to the doctor, ready to be induced.  When I was sent home on bed rest, I was told that if I had a headache that lasted for over 1 hour, I had to call immediately and head to the hospital.  3 hours of throbbing in my skull, two extra stregnth Tylenol, and a Diet Coke on Sunday morning sent up packing up to Labor and Delivery for an exam.  Luckily we had prepared for induction thursday, so we grabbed our packed bags and headed up.  Because it was a Sunday,  Dr. Blackett was not in so we were lucky enough to get Dr. Fowers to help us out.  He is a family friend and fabulous doctor which made me feel better. 
After Dr. Fowers took a look, we discussed my Preeclampsia.  He explained that the longer we waited from this point out, the sicker both I and the baby would get.  He felt like and induction was the best bet for the situation.  Tyler and I agreed.  Dr Fowers also discussed that because of my high blood pressure, and the stress of labor, I was at risk for having seizures. Nice.  So I was put immediately on a medication called Magnesium Sulfate.  The Mag is a medication that would keep me from seizing, but the side effects are pretty miserable. I would feel like I had the flu,  exhausted, achy, feverish, and really hot and sweaty during the entire labor and for 1 day afterward.   It wasn't exactly a pleasant feeling but it was alright.  At the time I felt like things were going okay.
I was hooked up to the Pitosin around 2:00pm and the labor started immediately.  I was having contractions every minute and It wasn't hurting so bad.  I was feeling pretty proud of myself.  Then Dr. Fowers broke my water.... and the pain began.  Thank heavens I have an amazing husband who would hold my hands and let me squeeze throuhgout each contraction.  He was the best support and i never would have made it without him.  After a while of painful contractions they gave me an epidural.  Yay for epidurals!!!  It really helped everything out, for a while.  It kept wearing off,  so I kept pushing the button for medication.  It never dawned on me that I was metabolizing it too fast, I just thought I was a wuss.  This will be important later.

Tuesday, May 3, 2011

Paker James Hepworth









Introducing Mr. Parker James Hepworth.  Born May 2nd, at 10:42 am via C-Section, weighing a not so whopping 5 lbs 10 oz,  our little man is healthy, happy, and as cute as can be.  More posts including details of the birth to come when we get home from the hospital and settled, but here are some fun pics of Parker and the family!   Love you to all-  The Hepworths

Thursday, April 28, 2011

Oh Pregnancy, part 2

My next doctors appointment was Thursday, and I was super excited to get in and see what the heck was going on.  The Tuesday before my doctors appointment, I headed to my monthly chiropractor appointment.  Dr. Misustin is awesome and it was soooo good I went and saw him.  While there he checked my blood pressure and it was 153/102.  Too High.   He suggested I head over to my doctor because he was worried, and it was a good thing I did.  I went over and my doctor put me immediately on bed rest, made me do some not so fun tests, and told me to come in Thursday with a high possibility of being induced on that day.  

This was stressful...we weren't planning on a baby for 3 more weeks!  So Tyler, the most amazing man ever, got to work! He cleaned the house, the carpets, finished painting the nursery and setting up the closet, set up the crib, did all the laundry, cleaned the house, grocery shopped, mowed the lawn, took care of the dog, and picked up all of the baby stuff we hadn't already bought.  I...stayed in bed.  Talk about a whirlwind of feelings and emotions.  We weren't quite ready to have this baby yet.  Were we prepared to be parents?  Was I ready to go through labor?  I have never been a fan of induction and now I was going to be...how did I feel about that?  On top of that the doctor said it would be a long process and probably take 24 hours.  Were we ready for a 24 hour labor?  There was stress and coversations of excitement, fear, tears, and anxiety.  It was a lot to go through.   But...Wednesday night we were ready to get up Thursday morning and have this baby.

Tyler and I headed to the doctor Thursday morning, bags packed, housed prepared, ready to head over to labor and delivery and get started.  We had worked out our schedules, we were all set to go.   When we arrived at the doctor's office we were in for a surprise.  Turns out,  to all of our surprises (including the doctor who was shocked herself) all of my labs were perfect and my blood pressure had gone down! What?!?  So after some discussion, we decided it was best for baby and momma to wait another week and re-evaluate then.  Of course on bed rest with a very low tolerance for headaches, or pain.  If I feel unwell in any way I have to call immediately and go back in to the doctors office.  Waiting puts me at risk of getting worse, but also means my body has more time to progress naturally, and the baby has more time to develop.   Its just a toss up between what is best for me and baby- and we are taking a small risk to wait.  Hopefully its the right choice.  The sucky part-  I hate bed rest.  I want to clean my house, shop for baby stuff, go on walks, make crafts for the nursery.  I get to lay in bed all day.  I went from crazy stressful life to stuck in bed all day every day.  I know its what is best so I'm going to do it.  Its days like this you wish you had cable. haha

How do I feel?  It took some processing to deal with it.  It was this huge stressful event to be ready for this baby today.  I had gone through all of the anxiety of preparing for labor, ready to be a mother, and was all pumped to go through a long induction, labor, and delivery process.  Tyler was ready to be a dad today- he was geared up and so excited.  And then we didn't.  Tyler and I both felt frustrated, let down, but at the same time happy that the baby could grow a little longer.  We were both just...emotionally drained.  It took all day for me to come to terms that this is right and okay.  That this is what needs to happen and that I am very happy about waiting.   I am a little worried this will happen again on Tuesday, that the emotional rollercoaster will hit again, but hopefully all will go well and whatever we feel is best for the baby will be what we do.

I have just found over the last few days that this pregnancy is out of my control.  This is more than I had ever expected but I feel like its going to make this baby even more special when he comes.  Whatever ends up happening, I know that it is what is best and that the Lord is there leading us in the direction we feel is best for our family.  Never have I had to trust in my heavenly father more than I have this pregnancy and I feel blessed that it has gone as well as it has.  Lets hope for a healthy baby and delivery whenever it happens.

Oh Pregnancy- part 1

I want to first start out by saying that I am so glad I am pregnant.  There are days when I have to remind myself that I asked for this, but I couldn't be happier that we have a little boy on the way, set to arrive anytime.  These last few weeks have been pretty trying, and I am starting to realize that unfortunately I can't be in control of what is happening all the time.  Its taken lots of prayers, tears, and trust in the Lord to know that whatever is going to happen will happen, and I don't get to decide.

Over the last few months I'd noticed some pretty sever swelling in my face, hands, arms, legs and feet.  I had a lot going on, and just tried not to worry too much about it.  I went to California for a weekend with my cheerleaders and it was a struggle.  I really thought I would be okay but I found myself exhausted and swollen most of the time.  So when I returned home I saw the doctor and was informed that my blood pressure was elevated and that I needed to "take it easy" (yeah right).  I did my best to slow down,  but with cheer and school and work it was really hard to find time to relax.   I had papers to write, a fundraiser to prepare the team for, and a baby to prep for.  Tyler was amazing and helped out with everything!!  But I started to really feel crappy and was starting to get a little worried.  But... its my first pregnancy, and everybody always tells me that the last month is miserable.  I wasn't sure if i was being a baby, or if something was really wrong. 

Two weeks later I went in and saw my doctor who again informed me that my blood pressure was creeping up and they were concerned about pre eclampsia.  I was again informed to "take it easy" and to call if I was having headaches, dizziness, blurred vision, etc.    About 2 days later I started getting headaches, and I've had one ever since.  I let the office know, they brought me in, and found that my bloodpressure had again gone up.  It was getting a little scary high, and I knew that something was going to have to be done.  My swelling was so bad that I couldn't fit in any of my shoes, and in the mornings my hands were so big that I couldn't open up packages and jars.  My face.... well lets just say I look like a totally different person and people were beginning to comment.  Awesome.  The headaches kept on coming and I knew something wasn't okay.  To be continued

Wednesday, March 16, 2011

A little early for Labor and Delivery... right?

We had a bit of a scare today that landed us in Labor and Delivery at LRH.  Turns out everything is okay, and we got some good new about out little one, but the process was rough, and as I'm sure we'll see when the bill arrives, quite expensive.

It all started about 11:30pm Tuesday night. I had taken the day pretty easy, went to class from 5:15-10:30 and was in bed ready to go to sleep.  I started having contractions- but they were small, a little painful, made it hard to breathe, but nothing I was too concerned about.  It happens at night sometimes so I wasn't really worried.  The contractions continued and got more painful throughout the night. Poor Tyler didn't get any sleep with my tossing and turning all night long. 

When I got up at six, I was having long drawn out contractions with short 30 second breaks in between and it was really getting painful. I couldn't breath very well, I was feeling a little nausea, and had to keep laying down.  Since the doctor doesn't open until 8:00- I headed out to do my practicum and waddled into Spring Creek middle school to help with registration.  I must have looked pretty bad because all of the counselors asked if I was okay. I told them what was going on and they were really sweet about it, having me sit down and relax until I could call the doctor- seriously working with school counselors is the best- they are amazing!

I called the doctor at 8:00am.  I let them know what was going on- that I wasn't really worried because if I could go to work, than I was probably just fine... they thought otherwise.  I expected them to tell me to lay down, drink some water, take a bath, etc.  They told me to head immediately to labor and delivery. This caught me off guard, and I held it together until I called Tyler- then I lost it.  Poor guy had to answer his phone to his wife bawling on the other line.  I think it just scared me- but Tyler was great and supportive- I picked him up at work and we headed to the Hospital.

Once we were there, everything went smoothly.  They put on monitors so we could hear the baby and watch my contractions.  Yes, I was having contractions- this was a relief, I was worried they were just braxton hicks and I was a big wuss.  Our nurse was fabulous- Marie- she took such good care of us and made me feel so comfortable.  So... after lots of tests, poking, examining of the lady parts, etc- we discovered the problem.  I had a UTI that was causing pre-term contractions. Luckily there was no progression, I wasn't in labor, and after a couple of days of bed rest and some anti-biotics I should be back to my normal crazy schedule again. 

So some fun things we discovered-  our baby is a wiggler- he didn't stop moving the entire time- this is a good thing apparently.  Secondly- I'm not sure how they determine this, but I guess he is "neurologically advanced" for his gestational age! Meaning he is smart! woot woot- Smart baby. 

So out little trip to Labor and Delivery turned out okay, and I don't plan on heading up that way again until I am ready to have this baby.  Lets hope this was a one time deal and that things will go smoothly for the next 9 weeks.  Oh yeah- they bumped my due date by a week- that is always nice!

Tuesday, March 15, 2011

30 weeks, and National Champs!!

30 weeks is here- only 10 more to go... or it could be less.  I went to the doctor, turns out I'm measuring big, so after my ultrasound next week we'll find out the real truth about how far along I am.  Probably I just make big babies. 
So how does 30 weeks feel?  Tired, unmotivated, burnt out...  You get the picture.  Maybe its the 55 hour work/practicum weeks, the school that seems to never end, or the swollen feet and ankles that are leaving me with little motivation to do anything other than lay on my bed and watch TV.  But... I am hoping this is short lived and I'll find my motivation somewhere.  I am thinking we'll blame this on pregnancy for the time being.   Other than me being a Debbie Downer on life, I am doing well, baby is healthy as ever, and life seems to be rolling along just normal.  On a happier note, my cheer girls took first place at the American National Championships (see the video on facebook) just this weekend.  I was super proud- they did awesome.  Here are a few pics from the event!  Please note how excited they are in the third picture- it cracks me up each time I see it! They had just found out that they took first and they were ecstatic!  You should have heard the screams!!


And, I got to go to lunch with some friends-  its always nice to get some time to spend with old friends, catch up on their lives, and see their cute little babies!  All is well here- hope its going well for you!


Saturday, February 26, 2011

Udpates and Shoes!

Do I suck at blogging lately?  Yep its true.  Maybe its because our life is ridiculously busy- maybe I'm just lazy - could be a combo of both.  Anywho, Here's a quick update!

Tyler: Is still working at Thermofisher as a Senior Financial Analyst.  He is also the 2nd counselor in the YM and is over the Deacons (we'll call it a love/hate relationship with his calling).  When he isn't busy with that- he is spending time putting our nursery together (Pictures to come when it is finished) and taking care of everything at home (Yes he is a much better wife than I am).  He pretty much is the best and I love him so much! 

Jami:  In between working at the Kutting Edge, Interning at South Cache 8-9th grade Center, Coaching Cheer at Air-Bound, Doing my Homework (only 1 semester left of classes!!! + 600 hours interning and the Masters Degree is Mine!) and being the secretary in the YW,  I spend my time growing our little baby boy.  This doesn't leave me much time at home, but when I'm hear I spend my time resting, napping, and helping around the house when Tyler lets me haha.  I've had a few problems with prenancy but nothing that can't be fixed with a little lifestyle change.  Hopefully things keep going well- If I keep on keeping on, by April my life will slow down significantly and I can relax and prep for our little man- coming May 23rd (ish).  Sorry- still no belly pics- I take them, feel like a whale, and have a hard time sharing them with the world. Sorry- I'll post one soon though- PS I feel HUGE!!! (not sure where 3 more months of growing are going to fit)

Baby:  Our little boy is currently growing healthy and strong.  At 28 weeks, he supposedly is 15 inches long from head to toe and weighs between 2-2.5 lbs! All of our doctors appointments have gone extremely well and my heart skips a beat everytime I get to hear his strong heart beating away inside my belly!  He's an active sucker and likes to kick me all day long.  He either loves or hates the movies -Both times we went and saw a movie he went crazy and kicked the ENTIRE time.  Its funny to watch my belly move when he's kicking.  He also let me have it when we went to PF Changs a few weeks ago- talk about gut punches!   Anywho, he is growing and we can't wait to meet him in 3 months.

Lately I've been doing a little shopping-  Can I help it? Probably not haha.  Lately I've been feeling like my son needs some fancy kicks to keep his tosies warm, and stylish.  I have yet to purchase some DC's or some Vans (But they will be purchased, Promise).  I did stop by Target.com and ordered some shoes for the little man-  Let me know what you think-  I kinda like em!!  There were a few shoe pictures I couldn't load, but these are the ones that I could!  When I get them all, I'll post it again.  We've also purchased our stroller/carseat,  Bedding for the crib, and some cute little outfits!  Who knew shopping for your baby could be so much fun... And expensive haha.




Sunday, January 2, 2011

Our Favorite Holiday Surprise!

Just thought we'd share with you what the Stork is bringing us in May! 

We are so excited to have a son!  He's a wiggler and I can feel him moving all the time-  Can't wait until we can snuggle the little guy! Let the shopping begin.

Holiday Recap!

Here's a short recap of our Holidays for 2010

Christmas:  We spent Christmast Eve and Christmas morning with the Hepworths this year.  The extra treat?  the Fergusons were there too-  talk about family love on christmas.  Christmas Eve we did the traditional dinner, Polar Express Devotional (seriously awesome- ask if you want details- its something we will do every year with our kids)  Opened name drawing gifts, and enjoyed being together.  Christmas morning we opened gifts around the group, watched movies, played rockband, decorated gingerbread houses- it was a blast.   That night we headed to the Andersons and opened our gifts there.  We then played some hilarious games that had us all in tears by the end.  This Christmas was so great- I felt so spoiled and blessed and loved - I couldn't have asked for anything more

My 24th Birthday:  This was on a Sunday (Boo)  but still was super fun.  We went to my parents for a big ham dinner and had the Hepworths and Fergusons there too! We ate, opened gifts :) and just enjoyed each others company. Thanks mom and dad for making it such a fun birthday!  Again I felt spoiled and love and blessed all at the same time.  The next night Tyler and my Family took me to Cafe Sabor for dinner to celebrate my birthday.  I love two day celebrations!

New Years:  We headed to my parents, ate Ryan and Dick.  Good times-  Seriously when my family gets playing games together I always end up laughing so hard I am crying.  We are dang funny sometimes.  It was a blast.  I made my famous Bruschetta and it was a hit.  I love that it is so easy and so good.  haha  Its like the only thing I can cook that people actually like... maybe when I'm home with baby I'll get better at cooking.

The holidays were a blast and itw as super fun to spend so much time with Tyler and my Families!  Love you all-  Happy New Year!