Happy Halloween and Happy 34 Weeks to Me

It's halloween! I just love halloween. I'm going to miss dressing up the pugs in their costumes and handing out candy to all the lil ones. Love to see their costumes. Oh well, I've got more important things to do right now.......like grow babies : )

My Ambien didn't quite work like I would have preferred it to last night! I took it at 10 and finally fell asleep around 1130 or so and was back up wide awake at 3. Darn it! I think she gave me a placebo pill - ha ha ha. So instead of being my new BFF, he's been demoted to just a friend.

I had visitors yesterday which was super duper! Nancy and Melissa came to visit. My mom is coming back again today to keep me company throughout the day. Thank goodness!!!

I'm getting pretty sleepy now, but the last two mornings, I've had two of my drs and one resident in here to see me before 7am - so probably not a great idea to try to go back to sleep. As I type this, the resident just came in to check me. Don't these people SLEEP? Ha Ha Ha. Poor things!

It's Friday! I know I'll be celebrating me getting to my 34 week goal. So people, have a nice cold or frozen beverage for me!!! Have a fun, safe Halloween and I want to see pics of either your children or furbabies dressed up ( or both ) !! Have a good weekend, looks like it's going to be nice out - I'll take your word for it : ) Hugs n kisses.

I need to mentally prepare myself for my second round of steroid shots for the babies. I'm so used to giving myself my own butt shots, that I almost asked her yeserday if I could do it myself. Not sure how she would have taken that. But I don't want to piss off a nurse with a big azz needle in her hand!! So, needless to say, I let her do it

Lockdown!

I just realized I never posted anything about my MFM appt. on Tuesday.

Alison weighs 3 lbs. 10 oz.
Nolan weighs 4 lbs. 13 oz.
Kate weighs 5 lbs. 3 oz.

As you can see, Alison isn't gaining weight as she should. It could be one of two things. It could be the fact that she is so far down in my uterus she is difficult to measure or she really isn't getting the nutrients her brother and sister are getting. I'm REALLY hoping it's inaccuracy of the measurement.......but they're not sure. A little concerned obviously. I would say they won't allow me to go much longer as she's not growing. I will be 34 weeks tomorrow. My ultimate goal from the beginning!!! woo hoo!!!

It's official. I'm in jail!!! OB called on Tuesday afternoon and said head to Antepardum at OSF. Argh!! And kind of like when they told me about bedrest.......I was like seriously??? I've made it this far and I've gotta go where? Ha Ha Ha. Just kidding. I've considered myself very lucky and spoiled for not having to be in the hospital until now. So, they had ran some tests and apparently they didn't like something. Has to do with how my kidneys are functioning. They aren't draining properly. So I am in here for that and the fact that Baby A isn't growing as she should. They've been monitoring me closely. So, that's the scoop on why I'm in the hospital. It's been lots of fun so far. Thank goodness for sleeping aids! Ambien is my new best friend. Judge me all you want for taking it while preggers, but it's THE ONLY way I can sleep!!! They wouldn't allow me to have it if it wasn't safe for the babies. So, that's the latest. I thought for sure I would deliver tomorrow, but one of my tests was borderline, so I bet it will be sometime next week. Just a guess though.

HUGE thanks to Linda at RLI for allowing me to borrow an extra laptop to use while in the hospital. You have no idea how nice it is to be able to keep in touch with everyone while stuck in this place!!! Keep those prayers coming : )

The Nice Thing About Triplets Is......

Cute.

http://www.boreme.com/boreme/funny-2007/triplets-thumb-suck-p1.php

Infertility Stinks

Infertility is not a very fun thing to deal with. Please remember, you are not alone.....there are bundles of resources out there to help you through tough times. Try to open up to people who are going/gone through the same thing.....it helps to have someone who has "been there" to talk to. Sometimes it's just nice to have someone to there to listen or a shoulder to cry on.


Below are a few websites I used throughout our journey. The internet is loaded with free information. Just be sure the site it reputable.




http://www.resolve.org/
(WONDERFUL website - I still visit to this day)!


http://www.fertilityneighborhood.com/


http://stirrup-queens.blogspot.com/
a fun website


http://www.wemakefamilies.com/
(my personal favorite...a place that is near and dear to my heart...thanks Dr. G!)


You know, even though Bri and I are finally expecting, I will never forget the wonderful resources and people that helped us get to where we are now. Just because we finally got pregnant doesn't mean infertility isn't a part of our lives anymore and that we're not still affected by it. I feel I will always be very bonded to the subject.

33 Weeks!

Okay gang, it's official, I am 33 weeks today. And I was so excited for this moment, that I stayed up past midnight to welcome it in. HA HA HA. Well, I didn't stay up by choice. Not sure if you've heard the latest, but I CANNOT SLEEP. It's the strangest thing. But who am I to complain? I've made it this far - only one more week and I am 34 weeks!!!! Yahhhooooooooooo! I think I can, I think I can, I think I can.......make it at least one more week. One more week means no long term breathing problems for the stooges.

I failed to mention in my last post that I am measuring 47 weeks. Holy cow, is that possible? My blood pressure has gone down (I monitor it at home) and so has the swelling in my legs. My fingers don't look like sausages - for now anyway. Tuesday is the big day. I can't wait for my appointment. Get to see how big the babies are!!!! I HAVE to be carrying around AT LEAST 12 pounds of babies right now! I gained 7 pounds in a week......I would try to blame it on the babies' growth, but I have a pretty large appetite right now : ) I may feel miserable, but I keep shoveling the food in.....ha ha ha. Speaking of food, I REALLY want to hit the kitchen right now for some LIP-SMACKING Hawaiian bread and dill dip! What else have I got to do, I can't sleep, so I might as well do the next best thing - STUFF MY FACE. Not much on television besides Paid Programming and Male Enhancement ads. Hee Hee. So, I might just waddle my big belly into the kitchen : ) On the way back, I'll probably pop in a movie to watch. After that, not sure what I'm going to do. Fill out my application for absentee ballot - which will take a whole 5 minutes...tops. I could pay a couple of bills that came in the mail today.......and then I will lay here with my fur babies until Brian gets up around 6ish. I know you are very jealous of my exciting life right now!

Thanks Aunt Diane for the huge box of diapers! They were delivered today. You rock!!!!

Infertility Etiquette - LONG but informative

Infertility Etiquette
By Vita Alligood

Chances are, you know someone who is struggling with infertility. More than five million people of childbearing age in the United States experience infertility. Yet, as a society, we are woefully uninformed about how to best provide emotional support for our loved ones during this painful time.

Infertility is, indeed, a very painful struggle. The pain is similar to the grief over losing a loved one, but it is unique because it is a recurring grief. When a loved one dies, he isn't coming back. There is no hope that he will come back from the dead. You must work through the stages of grief, accept that you will never see this person again, and move on with your life.

The grief of infertility is not so cut and dry. Infertile people grieve the loss of the baby that they may never know. They grieve the loss of that baby who would have had mommy's nose and daddy's eyes. But, each month, there is the hope that maybe that baby will be conceived after all. No matter how hard they try to prepare themselves for bad news, they still hope that this month will be different. Then, the bad news comes again, and the grief washes over the infertile couple anew. This process happens month after month, year after year. It is like having a deep cut that keeps getting opened right when it starts to heal.

As the couple moves into infertility treatments, the pain increases while the bank account depletes. Most infertility treatments involve using hormones, which alter the user's moods. (That statement is like calling a lion a cat-my husband would tell you that the side effect is insanity!) The tests are invasive and embarrassing to both parties, and you feel like the doctor has taken over your bedroom. And for all of this discomfort, you pay a lot of money. Infertility treatments are expensive, and most insurance companies do not cover the costs. So, in addition to the pain of not conceiving a baby each month, the couple pays out anywhere from $300 to five figures, depending upon the treatment used.

A couple will eventually resolve the infertility problem in one of three ways:

*They will eventually conceive a baby.
*They will stop the infertility
treatments and choose to live without children.
*They will find an alternative
way to parent, such as by adopting a child or becoming a foster parent.

Reaching a resolution can take years, so your infertile loved ones need your emotional support during this journey. Most people don't know what to say, so they wind up saying the wrong thing, which only makes the journey so much harder for their loved ones.


Knowing what not to say is half of the battle to providing support.

Don't Tell Them to Relax

Everyone knows someone who had trouble conceiving but then finally became pregnant once she "relaxed." Couples who are able to conceive after a few months of "relaxing" are not infertile. By definition, a couple is not diagnosed as "infertile" until they have tried unsuccessfully to become pregnant for a full year. In fact, most infertility specialists will not treat a couple for infertility until they have tried to become pregnant for a year. This year weeds out the people who aren't infertile but just need to "relax." Those that remain are truly infertile.

Comments such as "just relax" or "try going on a cruise" create even more stress for the infertile couple, particularly the woman. The woman feels like she is doing something wrong when, in fact, there is a good chance that there is a physical problem preventing her from becoming pregnant.

These comments can also reach the point of absurdity. As a couple, my husband and I underwent two surgeries, numerous inseminations, hormone treatments, and four years of poking and prodding by doctors. Yet, people still continued to say things like, "If you just relaxed on a cruise . . ." Infertility is a diagnosable medical problem that must be treated by a doctor, and even with treatment, many couples will NEVER successfully conceive a child. Relaxation itself does not cure medical infertility.

Don't Minimize the Problem

Failure to conceive a baby is a very painful journey. Infertile couples are surrounded by families with children. These couples watch their friends give birth to two or three children, and they watch those children grow while the couple goes home to the silence of an empty house. These couples see all of the joy that a child brings into someone's life, and they feel the emptiness of not being able to experience the same joy.

Comments like, "Just enjoy being able to sleep late . . . .travel . . etc.," do not offer comfort. Instead, these comments make infertile people feel like you are minimizing their pain. You wouldn't tell somebody whose parent just died to be thankful that he no longer has to buy Father's Day or Mother's Day cards. Losing that one obligation doesn't even begin to compensate for the incredible loss of losing a parent. In the same vein, being able to sleep late or travel does not provide comfort to somebody who desperately wants a child.

Don't Say There Are Worse Things That Could Happen

Along the same lines, don't tell your friend that there are worse things that she could be going through. Who is the final authority on what is the "worst" thing that could happen to someone? Is it going through a divorce? Watching a loved one die? Getting raped? Losing a job?

Different people react to different life experiences in different ways. To someone who has trained his whole life for the Olympics, the "worst" thing might be experiencing an injury the week before the event. To someone who has walked away from her career to become a stay-at-home wife for 40 years, watching her husband leave her for a younger woman might be the "worst" thing. And, to a woman whose sole goal in life has been to love and nurture a child, infertility may indeed be the "worst" thing that could happen.

People wouldn't dream of telling someone whose parent just died, "It could be worse: both of your parents could be dead." Such a comment would be considered cruel rather than comforting. In the same vein, don't tell your friend that she could be going through worse things than infertility.

Don't Say They Aren't Meant to Be Parents

One of the cruelest things anyone ever said to me is, "Maybe God doesn't intend for you to be a mother." How incredibly insensitive to imply that I would be such a bad mother that God felt the need to divinely sterilize me. If God were in the business of divinely sterilizing women, don't you think he would prevent the pregnancies that end in abortions? Or wouldn't he sterilize the women who wind up neglecting and abusing their children? Even if you aren't religious, the "maybe it's not meant to be" comments are not comforting. Infertility is a medical condition, not a punishment from God or Mother Nature.

Don't Ask Why They Aren't Trying IVF

In vitro fertilization (IVF) is a method in which the woman harvests multiple eggs, which are then combined with the man's sperm in a petri dish. This is the method that can produce multiple births. People frequently ask, "Why don't you just try IVF?" in the same casual tone they would use to ask, "Why don't you try shopping at another store?"

There are many reasons why a couple would choose not to pursue this option. Here are a few of them.

IVF is Expensive with Low Odds

One cycle of IVF is very expensive. With all of the hype in the news, many people assume that IVF is a sure thing when, in fact, the odds of success for each cycle are low. Most couples cannot afford to try for one month, much less for multiple times. Considering that it also costs a significant amount of money to adopt a baby, many couples opt for the "sure thing" rather then risking their money on much lower odds.

IVF is Physically Taxing

Undergoing IVF treatments is very rigorous. The woman must inject shots into her thigh daily to cause her ovaries to superovulate. The drugs used are very taxing on the woman, and they can cause her to be become extremely emotional.

IVF Raises Ethical Issues

Ironically, couples who undergo IVF to become parents may have to selectively abort one or more fetuses if multiple eggs are fertilized. Many couples cannot bring themselves to abort a baby when they have worked so hard to become parents. If the couple chooses not to selectively abort, they run the risk of multiple births.

Don't Offer Unsolicited Opinions If They Are Trying IVF

On the flip side of the coin, don't offer unsolicited advice to your friends who do choose to try IVF. For many couples, IVF is the only way they will ever give birth to a baby. This is a huge decision for them to make, for all of the reasons I outlined above.

If the couple has resolved any ethical issues, don't muddy the waters. IVF is a gray area in many ethical circles, and many of our moral leaders don't yet know how to answer the ethical questions that have arisen from this new technology. If the couple has resolved these issues already, you only make it harder by raising the ethical questions again. Respect their decision, and offer your support. If you can't offer your support due to ethical differences of opinion, then say nothing.

A couple who chooses the IVF route has a hard, expensive road ahead, and they need your support more than ever. The hormones are no cakewalk, and the financial cost is enormous. Your friend would not be going this route if there were an easier way, and the fact that she is willing to endure so much is further proof of how much she truly wants to parent a child. The hormones will make her more emotional, so offer her your support and keep your questions to yourself.

Don't Play Doctor

Once your infertile friends are under a doctor's care, the doctor will run them through numerous tests to determine why they aren't able to conceive. There a numerous reasons that a couple may not be able to conceive. Here are a few of them:

Blocked fallopian tubes
Cysts
Endometriosis
Low hormone levels
Low "normal form" sperm count
Low progesterone level
Low sperm count
Low sperm motility
Thin uterine walls

Infertility is a complicated problem to diagnose, and reading an article or book on infertility will not make you an "expert" on the subject. Let your friends work with their doctor to diagnose and treat the problem. Your friends probably already know more about the causes and solutions of infertility than you will ever know.

You may feel like you are being helpful by reading up on infertility, and there is nothing wrong with learning more about the subject. The problem comes when you try to "play doctor" with your friends. They already have a doctor with years of experience in diagnosing and treating the problem. They need to work with and trust their doctor to treat the problem. You only complicate the issue when you throw out other ideas that you have read about. The doctor knows more about the causes and solutions; let your friends work with their doctor to solve the problem.

Don't Be Crude

It is appalling that I even have to include this paragraph, but some of you need to hear this-Don't make crude jokes about your friend's vulnerable position. Crude comments like "I'll donate the sperm" or "Make sure the doctor uses your sperm for the insemination" are not funny, and they only irritate your friends.

Don't Complain About Your Pregnancy

This message is for pregnant women-Just being around you is painful for your infertile friends. Seeing your belly grow is a constant reminder of what your infertile friend cannot have. Unless an infertile women plans to spend her life in a cave, she has to find a way to interact with pregnant women. However, there are things you can do as her friend to make it easier.

The number one rule is DON'T COMPLAIN ABOUT YOUR PREGNANCY. I understand from my friends that, when you are pregnant, your hormones are going crazy and you experience a lot of discomfort, such as queasiness, stretch marks, and fatigue. You have every right to vent about the discomforts to any one else in your life, but don't put your infertile friend in the position of comforting you.

Your infertile friend would give anything to experience the discomforts you are enduring because those discomforts come from a baby growing inside of you. When I heard a pregnant woman complain about morning sickness, I would think, "I'd gladly throw up for nine straight months if it meant I could have a baby." When a pregnant woman would complain about her weight gain, I would think, "I would cut off my arm if I could be in your shoes."

I managed to go to baby showers and hospitals to welcome my friends' new babies, but it was hard. Without exception, it was hard. Stay sensitive to your infertile friend's emotions, and give her the leeway that she needs to be happy for you while she cries for herself. If she can't bring herself to hold your new baby, give her time. She isn't rejecting you or your new baby; she is just trying to work her way through her pain to show sincere joy for you. The fact that she is willing to endure such pain in order to celebrate your new baby with you speaks volumes about how much your friendship means to her.

Don't Treat Them Like They Are Ignorant

For some reason, some people seem to think that infertility causes a person to become unrealistic about the responsibilities of parenthood. I don't follow the logic, but several people told me that I wouldn't ache for a baby so much if I appreciated how much responsibility was involved in parenting.

Let's face it-no one can fully appreciate the responsibilities involved in parenting until they are, themselves, parents. That is true whether you successfully conceived after one month or after 10 years. The length of time you spend waiting for that baby does not factor in to your appreciation of responsibility. If anything, people who have been trying to become pregnant longer have had more time to think about those responsibilities. They have also probably been around lots of babies as their friends started their families.

Perhaps part of what fuels this perception is that infertile couples have a longer time to "dream" about what being a parent will be like. Like every other couple, we have our fantasies-my child will sleep through the night, would never have a tantrum in public, and will always eat his vegetables. Let us have our fantasies. Those fantasies are some of the few parent-to-be perks that we have-let us have them. You can give us your knowing looks when we discover the truth later.

Don't Gossip About Your Friend's Condition

Infertility treatments are very private and embarrassing, which is why many couples choose to undergo these treatments in secret. Men especially are very sensitive to letting people know about infertility testing, such as sperm counts. Gossiping about infertility is not usually done in a malicious manner. The gossipers are usually well-meaning people who are only trying to find out more about infertility so they can help their loved ones.

Regardless of why you are sharing this information with someone else, it hurts and embarrasses your friend to find out that Madge the bank teller knows what your husband's sperm count is and when your next period is expected. Infertility is something that should be kept as private as your friend wants to keep it. Respect your friend's privacy, and don't share any information that your friend hasn't authorized.

Don't Push Adoption (Yet)

Adoption is a wonderful way for infertile people to become parents. (As an adoptive parent, I can fully vouch for this!!) However, the couple needs to work through many issues before they will be ready to make an adoption decision. Before they can make the decision to love a "stranger's baby," they must first grieve the loss of that baby with Daddy's eyes and Mommy's nose. Adoption social workers recognize the importance of the grieving process. When my husband and I went for our initial adoption interview, we expected the first question to be, "Why do you want to adopt a baby?" Instead, the question was, "Have you grieved the loss of your biological child yet?" Our social worker emphasized how important it is to shut one door before you open another.

You do, indeed, need to grieve this loss before you are ready to start the adoption process. The adoption process is very long and expensive, and it is not an easy road. So, the couple needs to be very sure that they can let go of the hope of a biological child and that they can love an adopted baby. This takes time, and some couples are never able to reach this point. If your friend cannot love a baby that isn't her "own," then adoption isn't the right decision for her, and it is certainly not what is best for the baby.

Mentioning adoption in passing can be a comfort to some couples. (The only words that ever offered me comfort were from my sister, who said, "Whether through pregnancy or adoption, you will be a mother one day.") However, "pushing" the issue can frustrate your friend. So, mention the idea in passing if it seems appropriate, and then drop it. When your friend is ready to talk about adoption, she will raise the issue herself.

So, what can you say to your infertile friends? Unless you say "I am giving you this baby," there is nothing you can say that will erase their pain. So, take that pressure off of yourself. It isn't your job to erase their pain, but there is a lot you can do to lesson the load. Here are a few ideas.

Let Them Know That You Care

The best thing you can do is let your infertile friends know that you care. Send them cards. Let them cry on your shoulder. If they are religious, let them know you are praying for them. Offer the same support you would offer a friend who has lost a loved one. Just knowing they can count on you to be there for them lightens the load and lets them know that they aren't going through this alone.

Remember Them on Mother's Day

With all of the activity on Mother's Day, people tend to forget about women who cannot become mothers. Mother's Day is an incredibly painful time for infertile women. You cannot get away from it-There are ads on the TV, posters at the stores, church sermons devoted to celebrating motherhood, and all of the plans for celebrating with your own mother and mother-in-law.

Mother's Day is an important celebration and one that I relish now that I am a mother. However, it was very painful while I was waiting for my baby. Remember your infertile friends on Mother's Day, and send them a card to let them know you are thinking of them. They will appreciate knowing that you haven't "forgotten" them.

Support Their Decision to Stop Treatments

No couple can endure infertility treatments forever. At some point, they will stop. This is an agonizing decision to make, and it involves even more grief. Even if the couple chooses to adopt a baby, they must still first grieve the loss of that baby who would have had mommy's nose and daddy's eyes.

Once the couple has made the decision to stop treatments, support their decision. Don't encourage them to try again, and don't discourage them from adopting, if that is their choice. Once the couple has reached resolution (whether to live without children, adopt a child, or become foster parents), they can finally put that chapter of their lives behind them. Don't try to open that chapter again.

Infertility Myths and Facts

Infertility Myths and Facts

Myth: Infertility is a women's problem.

Fact: This is untrue. It surprises most people to learn that infertility is a female problem in 35% of the cases, a male problem in 35% of the cases, a combined problem of the couple in 20% of cases, and unexplained in 10% of cases. It is essential that both the man and the woman be evaluated during an infertility work-up.

Myth: Everyone seems to get pregnant at the drop of a hat.

Fact: More than five million people of childbearing age in the United States experience infertility. When you seek support, you will find that you are not alone. Join RESOLVE, a support group, or talk with others who are struggling to build a family, so that you won't feel isolated.

Myth: It's all in your head! Why don't you relax or take a vacation. Then you'll get pregnant!

Fact: Infertility is a disease or condition of the reproductive system. While relaxing may help you with your overall quality of life, the stress and deep emotions you feel are the result of infertility, not the cause of it. Improved medical techniques have made it easier to diagnose infertility problems.

Myth: Don't worry so much -- it just takes time. You'll get pregnant if you're just patient.

Fact: Infertility is a medical problem that may be treated. At least 50% of those who complete an infertility evaluation will respond to treatment with a successful pregnancy. Some infertility problems respond with higher or lower success rates. Those who do not seek help have a "spontaneous cure rate" of about 5% after a year of infertility.

Myth: If you adopt a baby you'll get pregnant!

Fact: This is one of the most painful myths for couples to hear. First it suggests that adoption is only a means to an end, not an happy and successful end in itself. Second, it is simply not true. Studies reveal that the rate for achieving pregnancy after adopting is the same as for those who do not adopt.

Myth: Why don't you just forget it and adopt? After all, there are so many babies out there who need homes!

Fact: For many, adoption is a happy resolution to infertility. However, most people explore medical treatment for infertility prior to considering adoption. In addition, traditional adoption options have changed, and adoption can be more costly and time-consuming than expected. It is, however, still possible to adopt the healthy baby of your dreams. There are also many older children and children with special needs available for adoption.

Myth: Maybe you two are doing something wrong!

Fact: Infertility is a medical condition, not a sexual disorder.

Myth: My partner might leave me because of our infertility.

Fact: The majority of couples do survive the infertility crisis, learning in the process new ways of relating to each other, which deepens their relationship in years to follow.

Myth: Perhaps this is God's way of telling you that you two aren't meant to be parents!

Fact: It is particularly difficult to hear this when you are struggling with infertility. You know what loving parents you would be, and it is painful to have to explain to others that you have a medical problem.

Myth: Infertility is nature's way of controlling population.

Fact: Zero population growth is a goal pursued in a time of world overpopulation, but it still allows for couples to replace themselves with two children. Individuals or couples can certainly elect the option to be childfree or to raise a single child. Infertility, for those who desire children, denies them the opportunity to choose.

Myth: I shouldn't take a month off from infertility treatment for any reason... I just know that this next month will be THE one!

Fact: It is important periodically to reassess your treatment and your parenting goal. Continuity in treatment is important, but sometimes a break can provide needed rest and renewal for the next steps.

Myth: I'll be labeled a 'trouble maker' if I ask too many questions.

Fact: The physician/patient team is important. You need to be informed about what treatments are available. What is right for one couple may not be right for another, either physically, financially, or emotionally. Don't be afraid to ask questions of your doctor.

A second opinion can be helpful. If needed, discuss this option with your physician.

Myth: I know I'll never be able to stop treatment until I have a pregnancy.

Fact: Pregnancy is not the only pathway to parenthood. You may begin to think more about parenthood than about pregnancy. You may long for your life to get back to normal. You may consider childfree living or begin to think of other ways to build a family.

Myth: I've lost interest in my job, hobbies, and my friends because of infertility. No one understands! My life will never be the same!

Fact: Infertility is a life crisis -- it has a rippling effect on all areas of your life. It is normal to feel a sense of failure that can affect your self-esteem and self-image. You will move through this crisis. It is a process, and it may mean letting go of initial dreams. Throughout this process, stay informed about the wide range of options and connect with others facing similar experiences.

OB Appointment

I'm safe at home.....for now. Had my OB appointment earlier today. Still have protein in my urine - same amount I've had for the past three weeks - so nothing too concerning. My blood pressure was elevated and I've begun to swell. Oh yeah, and I've gained 7 pounds in a week. Babies look good though. I had blood drawn to test for toxemia (the stage before pre-eclampsia). If I have it, I will be in the hospital for the duration of my pregnancy. So let's hope I don't have it : ) I'm not dilated at all......woo hoo!

We went by the Extreme Makeover: Home Edition set on the way home. They already have the old house demolished and they are framing the new house already. They have it all blocked off, but I could see some things. Even though it was raining, there were a lot of viewers out taking a peak. Lots of security in that area.......I wanted to get out SO bad and walk up there. I need one of those Hoverounds! Ha Ha. Next time I'm out, maybe I can talk Bri into going by there again so we can take pics.....although they might be finished by then! I think I got the scoop.....hottie Ty Pennington is staying at the Paradise Hotel, I'm pretty sure. Someone said they saw him at Texas Roadhouse on Monday night. The best way to see the house is from Willow and 14th Street. They also have a viewers shuttle bus that picks up and drops off at Sears in Pekin.

Hope everyone is doing well. I miss everyone! Talk to you later! Hugs and kisses.

As for my poll to see how many of you think I will have lil Halloween "punkins"....only 4 of you think I will while 8 of you don't think I will. We'll see : )

4D Sonogram Pic

Here is a 4D pic of Nolan taken last week : )


Thanks Nancy for letting us use your scanner : )

More Fast Facts About Infertility

Fifteen states have passed laws requiring that insurance policies cover some level of infertility treatment: Arkansas, California, Connecticut, Hawaii, Illinois, Louisiana, Maryland, Massachusetts, Montana, New Jersey, New York, Ohio, Rhode Island, Texas and West Virginia. (For more on this visit the insurance coverage section of resolve.org.)


Offering a comprehensive infertility treatment benefit with appropriate utilization controls may actually reduce costs and improve outcomes by eliminating the inappropriate use of costly covered procedures and allowing specialists to use the most effective, efficient treatment for a specific type of infertility. (Infertility As A Covered Benefit, William M. Mercer, 1997).



Kirsten's two cents: Keep in mind even though your state is mandated to cover some level of infertility treatment, companies that are self insured are exempt from this law. Always check with your insurance carrier for coverage before deciding on a treatment. It can be very expensive. If your company doesn't cover infertility treatment, ask them to consider it - what do you have to lose? While being able to bear your own child shouldn't come with a price tag, you still want to be smart about spending and your future.

More Fast Facts About Infertility

Approximately 85-90% of infertility cases are treated with drug therapy or surgical procedures. Fewer than 3% need advanced reproductive technologies like in vitro fertilization (IVF). (http://www.asrm.org/)

The most recently available statistics indicate the live birth rate per fresh non-donor embryo transfer is 28%. (Assisted Reproductive Technology Success Rates, U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 2005)

More Fast Facts About Infertility

A couple ages 29-33 with a normal functioning reproductive system has only a 20-25% chance of conceiving in any given month (National Women’s Health Resource Center). After six months of trying, 60% of couples will conceive without medical assistance. (Infertility As A Covered Benefit, William M. Mercer, 1997)


Approximately 44% of women with infertility have sought medical assistance. Of those who seek medical intervention, approximately 65% give birth. (Infertility As A Covered Benefit, William M. Mercer, 1997)



Kirsten's two cents: Women with normal functioning reproductive systems take for granted they are able to conceive without problems. It's actually pretty amazing to me how the human body is able to create life on its own.

More Fast Facts About Infertility

Infertility affects 7.3 million people in the U.S. This figure represents 12% of women of childbearing age, or 1 in 8 couples. (2002 National Survey of Family Growth)


Approximately one-third of infertility is attributed to the female partner, one-third attributed to the male partner and one-third is caused by a combination of problems in both partners or, is unexplained. (http://www.asrm.org/)


Kirsten's two cents: Chances are, you or someone you know is struggling or has struggled with infertility in the past. It is very important BOTH female and males are tested by your gynecologist after a year of trying to conceive. You are not alone.....seek support from others.

Weekend Update

Speaking of Weekend Update.......I missed Sarah Palin on SNL - I fell asleep (very unusual). So did she make a complete butt of herself or was she funny? I'll have to see if I can find something online.

As you can see, I've changed the look of my blog. For now anyway. I love change and I felt it needed something different. I'm sure it won't be the last time it will be changed! I've got lots of new posts, so be sure to read them all : )

Once again I am up in the middle of the night. It's about 2:38am. I woke up around 1:00am and couldn't fall back asleep. I've been painting my nails and laying here thinking. Maybe God is preparing me for when the babies come......I don't know. I DO know that I can catch up on my sleep while on bedrest, but when the babies get here.....not so much : ) So maybe He's just allowing me to "practice" waking up throughout the night. I've got major stomach pains right now. I'm pretty sure they aren't contractions.....probably just what I call "poop cramps". Ha Ha. But they HURT! I'm really hoping they go away!!!! Gotta make it two more weeks! Babies are SUPER active right now. Maybe they know something I don't!!!!

Not too much going on this weekend. My mom came over all day Saturday. I love it when she comes. She's good company and whether she likes it or not, she listens to my complaining about how crappy I feel!! After all, isn't that what moms are for? Just kidding. She did laundry for us - which was needed! Nancy came over last night. She brought me a TON of movies to watch and a scanner! She must be reading my blog. I mentioned the other day how I wished I had a scanner so I could scan in Nolan's latest 4D pic. She's so sweet to think to do that. I haven't got it hooked up yet, but depending on how I feel today, I am going to hook it up and start scanning some pics!

I've developed a yucko case of acid reflux. Thanks to the internet, I've diagnosed myself. I have to call the nurse to be sure that's what it is. It's pretty darn nasty if you ask me!

Brian has a friend he went to college with at SIUE who is a triplet. He has two sisters as well. We just found out last night that they were born on Halloween! Okay, now someone is trying to tell us something : ) I probably shouldn't say when I think the babies will be born, I might jinx it.....let's just say I'm calling tomorrow to request an absentee voting card to be sent to me : )

Okay, I really hope these are poop cramps and not anything more than that! Now I'm stressing! Where are the Tums.....please pass the Tums!!!

Harley, my mean cat, is laying on the keyboard so it's getting difficult to type! Hope everyone is doing well. Keep those prayers coming!

Belly Pic - 32 Weeks

32 Weeks 1 Day

Measuring 46 weeks!

I don't think I'll be posting anymore bare belly pics. I don't want to gross you out too bad with all the lovely stretch marks : ) So, you'll have to trust me, I'm getting HUGE : ) Ha Ha Ha.

National Infertility Awareness Week

In honor of National Infertility Awareness Week (Oct. 19-25), I wanted to post a couple facts about infertility each day throughout the week to educate others. Please check back daily for fast facts taken from http://www.resolve.org/ (click on Learn to find out what RESOLVE is all about).

Infertility is a disease that results in the abnormal functioning of the male or female reproductive system. Both the American Society for Reproductive Medicine (ASRM) and the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG) recognize infertility as a disease.

Infertility is defined as the inability to conceive after one year of unprotected intercourse (six months if the woman is over age 35) or the inability to carry a pregnancy to live birth.

Kirsten's two cents: If you and your partner have been unable to conceive after one year of trying, it's very important to seek medical advice right away......don't put it off. Take charge of your fertility!

While I may think I know it all, I don't. Please treat "Kirsten's two cents" exactly as that.....my two cents. They are my opinions only - as I am not a doctor - I just play one on T.V........ Smile : )

OB Appointment

Had another OB appointment today. I'm happy to report there were no changes so I am safe at home in my own bed........ahhhh. I am measuring 46 weeks! WOW! Babies look good....fluid levels and heartbeats all great! Maternal Fetal will make the call on 10/28 as to what they want to do......either let me keep going or schedule my c-section. All depends on how my body cooperates at this point. There are a couple of things they've been watching, which will be the deciding factor. Been feeling pretty crappy lately, but that's okay - as long as these babies are safe inside and growing........I honestly don't care how crappy I feel. It's not about ME right now.....hee hee. This past week flew by......so I'm hoping it's the case for the next two weeks. I've been trying to bribe people to just knock me out and wake me up when they want to deliver......nobody seems to be going for that though : ( I really wish I had a scanner right now. The ultrasound tech got a great pic of Nolan today in 4D. Looks like his daddy. He's got chubby cheekers! Right when she was taking his pic he opened his eyes and peaked at us. I CAN'T WAIT TO MEET OUR BABIES!!!! Alison is truly being the gatekeeper - she's doing a great job. She's actually laying across the bottom of my uterus - not quite head down. She's a good girl. Nolan also decided to turn around again. He had been really squirmy the past few days, now we know what he was doing. Kate is just Kate. She's very independent and has her own schedule - unless someone kicks her......then it's ON like donkey kong!

The Office was pretty funny tonight.....Brian will be taking a Sharpie marker into the operating room when I deliver : )

A Little RSV Education

RSV - Respiratory Syncytial Virus

I've been trying to educate myself as much as possible about RSV - Respiratory Syncytial Virus - and I wanted to educate others about this virus. It's never too early or you can never have too much information. RSV "season" is from October until April.

For full term babies, RSV typically isn't any worse than a common cold, but for preemies, the virus can be quite different. Babies born earlier than 36 weeks are at the highest risk for serious complications like pneumonia, bronchiolitis, and other sometimes fatal complications. Preventing the spread of RSV is very difficult. The virus is spread through physical contact, in the air via a cough or sneeze, or by touching an infected object. The virus can live as long as six hours on hands and up to twelve hours on objects, and it spreads very easily, especially from child to child.

Some of you may have experience with RSV with an infant or someone you know......and you might not think it was a big deal. Please realize it's a very big deal for preemies. Pre-term babies lungs are not fully developed. If preemies develop RSV they will be hospitalized and develop serious complications. You may also wonder " Can't they fight it off and build up their immune system? Kids need to get sick, right?" The simple answer is NO. Babies born pre-term do not acquire the necessary immunities to fight off infection.

Please check back.......I've got lots to say about this subject : ) Thanks for reading.

For more information, please follow this link: http://www.preemiecare.org/rsvfaq.htm

RSV is the leading cause of lower respiratory tract infections in babies and young children. About 67% of babies are infected with RSV before their first birthday and virtually all children will have been infected by their second birthday. Most of these infections result in minor illness. But in some high-risk children (particularly preemies or children who have experienced lung complications) RSV can be life threatening. In the US alone, more than 125,000 infants are hospitalized with RSV. In addition, wheezing and asthma have been identified in children 10 years after experiencing RSV infection in infancy.

Things I'm Looking Forward To.....

Okay, don't get me wrong.....I know I won't be able to do a lot of these things right away - but at least it's something I can look forward to doing again......some day. Like when the triplets are 18 years old????

Seeing my babies!
Holding my babies!
Being able to sleep on my stomach.
Living heartburn free.
Drinking an ice cold beer.
Drinking a frozen margarita.
Eating a cold cut from Subway.
Eating a full meal without being STUFFED.
"Sleeping" with my husband.
Taking a shower every day.
Taking a bath.
Cleaning the house (that will last about a day).
Doing laundry.
Going out to eat.
Seeing my friends/family more often.
Driving.
Being able to get up out of bed and do what I want.
Being on a schedule.
Picking up my niece and nephew to hug and cuddle them.
Picking up my pugs to hug and cuddle them.
Having a flat tummy - okay, only in my dreams.
Going outside.
Answering the door.
Walking down the stairs to the basement.
Doing things on my own (not having to rely on everyone else).
Getting my hair cut.
Getting my hair colored.
Getting my eyebrows waxed.
Going to the grocery store (that will last about one trip).
Cooking.
Having my strength back.
Having a clear nose!
Putting lotion on my legs.
Shaving my legs without straining.
Taking a shower without being exhausted afterwards.
Sitting up when on my computer.


Things I will miss being on bedrest.........

Having time to myself.
Watching (movies, t.v) whatever I want, whenever I want.
Sleeping
That's about it!!!

My Weekend

The weekend isn't quite over yet, but I might fall asleep for hours and not get a posting in - LOL. Pretty laid back weekend. Darleen and Denny came over on Saturday for a few hours. They brought us Chipotle for lunch - it was yummy. They bought us our third highchair as well as preemie diapers and wipes. Big thanks to the soon-to-be grandma and grandpa!!!

Thank goodness for all of the new shows that are on television. My favs this year are, The Office, Grey's Anatomy, CSI, Army Wives, Lipstick Jungle, Desperate Housewives, and The Starter Wife. I'm starting to get hooked on those paranormal shows on the Travel channel and A&E. Brian won't watch them with me - he's a big wussy...ha ha just kidding. I've also been reading and spend most of my time on the computer. Thank goodness for Facebook. Keeps me occupied and I love catching up with old friends. I sleep a lot - it helps to pass the time, and my body obviously needs it. I've been SUPER hot lately too. My body is like an oven. We broke down and turned the air back on yesterday.......I just couldn't stand it anymore!! Brian is about to move out he's so cold!! I think it's funny.

My cravings are out of this world. My appetite is back!! Babies are very active. I still love it when they kick me. Alison is still "tickling" me. Lil stinker.......so cute though. Nolan has decided to move from breech position to head down. Now all three are head down. Hello stretch marks!! My stretch marks are unbelievable. I can't look at my belly anymore.......I see a tummy tuck in my future : ) ha ha. I feel like a Weeble Wobble. Like I could just fall forward every time I stand up....ha ha. Brian said I used to walk like George Jefferson, I can only imagine who he thinks I walk like now. It's almost impossible not to waddle.....ha ha. And I couldn't walk with my legs together to save my life! I wouldn't trade these pregnancy "issues" for anything though!!!! Bring em on! I can handle them : ) Grow babies, grow!!!!

I think that's about it. I don't do much, so I don't really have much to talk about, and I REALLY need to take a shower!! Keep those prayers coming.....they're definitely working! Hugs and kisses to everyone : )

By the way....I am measuring 44 weeks pregnant.....holy schmoly!

Honey.....I'm Home

It's official, I have a cervix of steel!!! No hospital for this mama! No changes to anything, so I'm still doing great - and get to stay in my own bed - at least for another week, anyway. I am SO happy! Babies heartbeats all look great. I've gained 9 pounds in 2 weeks! WOW! So I've gained a total of 24 pounds. I am on cloud nine right now. I would really like to make it to 34 weeks!

So, that's the update. I am going to crash now. That was way too much excitement for me!! Thanks for your prayers.....keep them coming!

Getting Nervous

Weeellll, tomorrow's the day! I have an OB appointment at 1:30 and I just have that feeling she's going to put me in the hospital. I could be totally wrong, and hope I am. I've been trying to catch up on things here at home just in case. The drugs they put you on in the hospital to keep contractions down, etc. have not so fun side effects that I'm really stressing about. I'm obsessed about it, I know......but I love being in my own bed......my own house.......with my furbabies!! What would I do without my bedrest buddies??? I was thinking, I'll have to show Brian how to maintain my blog if I do go into the hospital, so he can keep everyone updated. I don't have have a laptop : ( I use the computer all day long - well, when I'm not sleeping - so that's going to hurt.

Okay, enough obsessing. My friends at RLI sent me a beautiful flower arrangement yesterday. A big thanks to them as it has really cheered me up. Brian put them in my bedroom so I get to look at them all day long. My sleep schedule is all messed up right now. I go to bed around 3:00am and wake up around 11:00 or 11:30am. I really need to get back on track - I don't like sleeping all day like that! Although it has really passed the time : )

Some people have been asking how I'm feeling. Although I don't want to jinx it, I've felt pretty darn good for the past few days. I had a few pretty icky days the past few weeks - which is to be expected.

I've been really trying to think of ways we can save money - so I've been cutting coupons for when Brian does the grocery shopping. Today, Oprah was about money saving secrets - most of what they went over, I already knew about.....but here's a website for one of the thrifty women they had on the show. I haven't been through the whole website yet, but looks like it's full of great information!!


http://www.couponmom.com/


Another one of my favorite websites I've been using to print coupons is:


http://www.eversave.com/

Just thought I'd share. Hope everyone is doing well. Keep us in your thoughts and prayers. Hugs and kisses to everyone!

Belly Pic - 30 Weeks

30 Weeks 2 Days

My Weekend - and 30 Weeks!

We've gotten to 30 weeks! We are thrilled out of our minds! We never thought we'd make it this far. And now that we've gotten to 30 weeks - all I want is MORE MORE MORE! So please pray for my body to cooperate!!

We had a nice weekend. Brian's mom came over on Saturday. She brought us Spaghetti Shop for lunch - YUMMY! She also brought carmel apples, a couple other desserts and rigatoni! Thank you grandma f! My mom came over on Sunday. She was a big help too. She went and got us Applebee's for lunch (I've been on a huge Applebee's kick lately). And she made my favorite cheesy potatoes - which we'll have tonight for dinner. I might not be able to fit a whole lot in this belly, but my appetite seems to be coming back! Let the cravings begin! My sister, her husband and my niece and nephew came over on Saturday too. It was very nice to see everyone.

I got on the scale over the weekend and I've gained a total of 20 pounds now. I figured it would start creeping up pretty quickly towards the end.

That's all I've got. My life is not very interesting by any means! But that's okay......I just want these babies to stay cooking inside for as long as possible! Thanks to everyone for keeping us in your thoughts and prayers! I could have these babies any day now - so please keep praying for us! Hugs and kisses to all!

Brian told me we need to take belly pics tonight. So hopefully I'll have something posted by tomorrow.

Tickle Me Alison

Hee hee. I had to post this to see if any other mother has had this feeling. Baby A - aka Alison - ya know, the one closest to the door........is pretty far down in my uterus. This sounds so weird, but every day now......my lower left side it feels almost like she is tickling me. Almost like she's taking her fingers and moving them really quickly (she's working on her fine motor skills already..ha ha). What is that? If my legs are tucked up towards my chest, it's so noticeable that I can feel it on my leg. Is she messing with me or what? Anyone else had this when they were preggers?

Bed Rest Must Haves

Okay, when you just can't sleep, you start to think of weird things you can do! The following is a list of things to consider for anyone who has to go on dreaded (pregnancy related) bed rest. Forgive me if I've forgotten anything.

Suggestions of things you will need within arms reach:

• TV/remote
• DVD player/remote
• books
• magazines
• phone/cell phone
• Colace
• Tums
• prenatal vitamins
• crossword/word search puzzles
• a large jug of ice cold water with a lid and a straw
• snacks
• candy :)
• PC or laptop (I wouldn't have gotten this far without a PC)
• bedrest buddies - dogs/cats!!
• hair brush
• hand sanitizer
• lotion
• moisturizer
• bills
• blank cards (especially Thank You notes)
• pens
• address book
• stamps
• return address labels
• coupon organizer
• pad of paper
• clock
• printer
• blank paper for printer
• blank envelopes
• calendar/organizer
• trash can
• file folders (to keep things organized/tidy)
• kleenex
• telephone book
• baskets (to keep things organized/tidy)
• chap stick
• paper clips
• Netflix subscription
• lamp
• book light
• body pillow - definite must have (I would recommend the body pillows that are U-shaped). I just have the Snoogle Basic which is just like a standard body pillow.......I really wish I would have gotten a U-shaped pillow.
• a thick/comfy foamy mattress pad
• scissors
• stapler
• tape
• lots of comfy pillows
• pony tail holders
• candle/lighter
• I have two night stands and a card table next to my bed. I would suggest having a table at least the size of a card table - you are going to be LIVING in your bed.......so you are going to accumulate bunches of crap : )
• A SENSE OF HUMOR and A POSITIVE ATTITUDE - You're gonna need it by the end of the first week : )

Ya know, bed rest stinks......and it's no fun at all! But you have to allow people to help you......that's the one thing I've learned. You will feel SO helpless. I have tried to keep my sense of humor and a positive attitude. But, you're going to have good days and bad days. Just try to remember, it's for a good reason - or in my case, it's for multiple reasons!!!! Your muscles will get pretty sore - especially your hips. The worst part, is you will grow weak and lose muscle mass. By far the worst part. You will get winded rolling over to your other side - and we won't even talk about how winded you will get just getting up and going to the bathroom. Remember to thank your partner/husband frequently, as it's not easy on them either. If someone calls you "princess" or "queen" tell them to bleep off : ) Or if someone tells you "you're SO lucky to get to lay around all the time" or "you have it made". You can hit them as hard as you can - just kidding. NOBODY can understand how you feel unless they've gone through it. Hey, I'm not complaining, I'm just giving those future bed resters a heads up : ) And HEY, even if I WAS complaining.....I have every right to do so : ) You people out there in the real world complain to me all the time : ) hee hee

Grow babies grow : )