Our August Arrival

Our August Arrival is due on 8.28.12.  

Our wish was for our children to be close together, and our hope is that it will make them closer and playmates.  I actually took a pregnancy test on 12.28.11.  I had a feeling that I was expecting over Christmas, but the test confirmed it once we returned to town from Kentucky!  

  

I emailed Dr. Villers the next day to let her know of the news, and of course, to set up my first OB appointment.  I saw Dr. Villers on 1.20.12, and got my first glimpse of Our August Arrival.  Heart beat was strong, and she calculated the due date to be 8.28.12.  August was a little sooner than I thought, but grateful none the less!

We waited to tell family and friends until after our first trimester screening, which we had on 2.25.12.  The way we told our family was we got Tillman a "Big Brother" shirt (I actually, called my dad, JRS, right after the appointment to tell the news).  We did Facetime with Cici, had PapPaw come over for dinner to see Tillman, and we Skyped with Nick's mom (Mimi) and grandmother.  Tillman is on the move these days, so it took a while for them to read his shirt, but when they did, they were very excited to hear that the family would have another baby to love!  For the aunts and uncles, we called our sisters and brother to tell them the news by phone.

Our first trimester screening went really well.  The report stated the occurrence of Downs Syndrome and/or Trisomy 18 and 13 less than 1 in 10,000.  The genetic counselor explained that this is the lowest risk that the blood test reports, and this was wonderful news/ "we are off to a great start."  Our August Arrival was measuring 5 days ahead of the due date, it was noted that the placenta was in the front, cord blood was flowing appropriately, and all organs were functioning.

I finally told work and the world of Facebook on 3.9.12.  I wasn't ready to tell work because I had a few loose ends that I didn't want "oh Meredith's pregnant" to effect.  Of course, they say it doesn't effect anything (legal answer), but I often wonder if it does or not.  I knew that 3.9.12 was the time to say something because folks were starting to notice.  After all, I work at a Children's Hospital.  These folks can point out a pregger a mile away.  I had already had someone point to my tummy, and say "oh, already...another one!"  I was at a reception on 3.6.12, and I could just "feel" people talking about me.  It is a very exciting thing to be pregnant, but not so exciting to have the whispers.
When "the cat was out the bag," folks were saying "I knew it," "I thought so,"I guessed it a few weeks back".....

Our next ultrasound is on 4.10.12(after review of my calendar, it appear the appointment is 4.12.12).  This will be the anatomy scan/ 20 week ultrasound, and we will know for sure what Our August Arrival will be.  At our 2.25.12 ultrasound, the sonographer said that she was 90% sure of the sex, but for the sake of publishing this to the world and being the other 10%, I'll hold off on the gender until we know for sure.  After all, Our August Arrival could become the President one day, and the opposing candidate may read what I wrote and cause a political uproar the day before the election!  Ok, maybe too much TV (or campaign 2012 coverage) for Mrs. Pregnant in the Lowcoutry!

We're very excited to become a family of four.  We've already placed Our August Arrival on the daycare waiting list, figured out maternity leave plans, rearranged and purchased new car seats to accommodate, and purchased a double stroller.  More plans to come, but I think we are going to gear up all other planning after our 4.1012 appointment (which my mom noted was her due date when she had me in 1981)!

18 month Check Up

Tillman (bad boy) sticking out his tongue!
Playing at Battery Park

Tillman went for his 18 month check up on Friday to see Dr. Clifford.  All and all, Tillman got a great report, Dr. Clifford said he was glad to see that his height and weight were proportioned well (higher percentile in height than weight).  In his 5 minute observation of Tillman, he thought that his motor and language skills were right on target.  We did discuss his EARS!  Poor Tillman can't catch a break with his ears or get his vaccinations on time due to the ears.  We talked about language development with his ear constantly being infected, discussed if he doesn't get better after a round of steroids that we'd need to see Dr. White, ENT, again to check about taking out adenoids.

Waiting on his exam

Dr. Clifford feels that Tillman's inner-ear is inflamed.  If this is the case, then none of the ear drops are getting down to the source of the infection since there isn't a passage way (hints the smelly ear and no ear drainage).  He felt like steroids would reduce the inflammation and allow the drops to get to the source and allow the drainage release. Tillman goes back to Dr. Clifford in two weeks for a check up and hopefully his vaccination.  If it isn't better then, then off to the ENT we go.

Eating Gold Fish to pass the time

Currently Tillman is on an antibiotic (twice a day), a steroid, ear drops, nose spray and Zyrtec!  I feel like he needs one of those weekly pill boxes that has the days of the week on it.  Oy Vey!

Climbing...of course

Although Tillman has ear troubles, it doesn't slow him down one bit!  Yes, the "roids" make him a bit ornery, but he is as rambunctious as ever.  In fact, he has 4 bruises (one of the cheek and three on the legs) just from yesterday to prove he is not slowing down.  Tillman decided to climb on a chair and then on the chair arm.  He lost his balance, hit a plant stand with his face, and down on the carpet he went.  I think it scared him more than anything.  He wanted a hug from Nick and then me, and then he was on to the next "Evel Knievel" trick!

Snacking with Daddy

Tillman's Stats:

Weight: 22 lbs 6 ozs (9th percentile)

Height: 31 inches (15th percentile)

Head Circumference: 18 inches (6th percentile)

BMI: 16.4

More words from Tillman: book, dog, hot, no no, thank you, milk, more, momma, daddy, banana, truck, basket ball, ball, football, nose, push, and bye-bye. (For some of these, I know what he is saying, but still a little rusty. I'm sure I'm leaving something out.)

Attempting to get a Father Son photo...
at least one was looking at the camera!

I Spy...

Remember that game? 

Well if you're out shopping at Citadel Mall, make sure to keep your eyes peeled for Tillman. 

We went to Citadel Mall right before Christmas this year to get our yearly ornament from Hallmark.  Nick and I have gotten one each year.  In fact, we both gave each other an ornament as one of our first gifts.  It just so happened; we didn't plan it. 

This year we got a baby's first Christmas ornament for Tillman.   

Like every year, Hallmark was busting at the seams with people and was super busy.  We left Nick at the check-out while Tillman and I strolled around the mall.  We found Tillman's picture on the kiosk right outside of Claire's and Hollister!

If Tillman were one of those E-Trade babies,
I wonder what he would be saying in this photo. 
He wasn't the least bit interested in getting his photo taken
(as if he was embarrassed or something!)

Coburg don't have nothin' on me!

Tillman is breastfeeding, but I must say it is not easy.  It is just like anything in life worth working for-a college degree, running a marathon, a master's degree, etc.  I have done all of those, so this is just the challenges of being a good mom, and it is worth working for and not giving up.

We went to his first pediatican appointment yesterday.  Here is some email exchanges I had with the MUSC lacation services after his appointment.  Lacatation consultants are the best resource for mom-baby success with breastfeeding.  Dr. Villers told me before I delivered "you are a mom, and have no idea how to be a mom.  Tillman is a baby, and he has no idea how to be a baby.  It is a learning process you will go through together."  She couldn't be more right!


Email exchange:

From: Meredith
Sent: Thursday, September 23, 2010 2:08 AM
Subject: Feeding volumes

I need more of your advice.
Tillman went to the pediatrician today. They don't feel like he is getting enough to eat. She encourage me to talk to an Lactation Consultant about it and drink tons of water. We go back on Friday for a weight check. She says that his face shows signs of Jaundice and dehydration (little sinking in around the eyes and dry lips). If he doesn't gain enough by Friday, they would like for us to supplement or use some lactation devices to get him more intake.
Do you know what device she is speaking of? She said we could provide more volume without using a bottle nipple. She said there are devices that well mimic the nipple.
I feel he has eaten better over the past two days, but think we got him behind with my milk coming in and being engorged (yes people, the girls were like rocks! They were so hard, I couldn't even pump, but applying heat to them worked great!).

At birth, he weighed 6 lbs 3ozs.
Leaving the hospital he weighed 5lbs 9 ozs.
Yesterday he was 5lbs 13 ozs. She wanted him to be back to birth weight by now.
Thanks you for all the advice.
Meredith
-----------------------

Good morning,

Only a mother e-mails at 2 am. I think you have a good handle on it. He probably got a little behind with the engorgement. He should be eating at least 8 times per day for 15-20 minutes minimum, could be as many as 12 times with cluster feeding. He should be wetting 5-6 diapers and at least one stool (could be many). If he is doing this he should be doing well. Drink only to thirst, 8-10 glasses per day. Not gallons. Rest. The next 24 hours (before your next pediatrician's appt) should be all about breastfeeding and rest. Do not go out, or shop or anything. Just allow him to eat whenever he wants and wake him if he has not woken by 3 hours after his last feed. Put him skin-to-skin on your chest at 3 hours and wait for feeding cues. He should be eating within 30 minutes.
I am on tomorrow. What time is your pediatrician's appt? If he has not gained weight I can show you how to use the Supplemental nursing system. We have them here (MUSC). You just put breastmilk or formula in a bottle that has a tube that goes down to the breast. When he latches the tube goes in his mouth also so he will get extra breastmilk or formula when he sucks.
This is not uncommon. Don't worry. Try to stay relaxed and focused solely on Tillman and breastfeeding today.
Page me tomorrow after the pediatrician's appt. or if you have any questions.

MUSC Lactation Service

Preparing For Birth During Final Weeks Of Pregnancy

I would suggest to anyone now after going through the labor process to talk about your wants and needs before the big day.  As I found out, the big day is not the due date always and can come at any time.  Nick, Dr. Villers and I were all on the same page.  Check out this video of us discussing with Dr. Villers our questions, thoughts, and wants about our experience.


Well....embedding the video won't work for me, so here's the link. 

We were hoping for a normal delivery, but it just wasn't in the cards for us with Tillman since my water broke prematurely (before I was in labor).  However, the birthplan forced me to think about the possibility of a c-section.  I am sure glad we filled out the plan!

Picture from Cici's Camera

Picture right before going to OR for C-section

CiCi and JRS with one drugged up mommy ready for after the C-section

Hour 21 after breaking water

Meet Tillman Alexander

Got a small cut on his head from the procedure

Here he is checking out the world

Dimple Dilated

That was "the word" from my appointment yesterday.  I didn't think it was a common term, but I "google" everything, and sure enough, dimple dilated is a thing.  Dr. Villers also said that I'm still around 50% effaced.  In previous post, I've expressed that the checks are uncomfortable, but I guess I didn't know until yesterday these checks get worse after dilation starts (yuck...I just can't write it; if you have to know, email me).  I'm hoping Tillman will hang in there next week.  Dr. Villers is out of town next week, and I'll see her again on September 20th. 

Dear Tillman, be patient for 10 more days at least for Mommy and Daddy.  I know that patients doesn't run in the family, but impress us all and show us how it is done, buddy! 

Last night Nick and I went to a newborn class, 1-2-3 For Parents To Be, at MUSC.  I think it was helpful, but we got out way past my bedtime of 9PM (yawn!).  I just didn't feel like I could leave--too scared to miss something I didn't know (and I don't know much about newborns). 

Some things we learned
~the first poop is AWFUL! You must get it off the baby ASAP.  It is better to use lotion to wipe up the baby than baby wipes.  This stuff is like tar and is sticky!  YUCK!
~Breastfed babies poop should not stink.  When they poop, their diaper should have yellow liquid stuff with "seseme seed" like things in it.
~Crib bumpers are dangerous (what?) and should not be in the crib. We are to take it out before he sleeps there....SIDS.
~We're the only couple, in all our classes, who have a birth plan. Most of the dads didn't know they could cut the cord.  For your sanity, fill out a birthplan. It really does help to create the experience you hope to have.

Wordless Wednesday...Surprise Work Shower (8/27/10)

Breastfeeding (a face to face chat with the expert)

I met with Jeanne Barreira, MUSC Lactation Consultant, to hear the "skinny" on breastfeeding.  She and I spoke for an hour, but the below clip is 10 minutes of our conversation. 

She was very helpful to answer my questions, dispel myths, and encourage me to breastfeed when Tillman arrives.  Breastfeeding is something I am really looking forward to doing.  I feel confident that the MUSC Lactation team will help me in anyway.  The biggest thing I learned is to ask questions and get help before giving up.  Breastfeeding isn't easy, at times it (could) hurts, but the bottom line is it is the best thing for our babies. 

I relate it to a workout after not working out for a year or for that matter, never working out before.  When you workout it hurts, it stinks, it is hard, but you've got to push through it to get in shape.  Once you get in your workout routine it is easy/easier.  No Pain No Gain...right?

Check out this video:

View this video on MUSChealth.com (click here)

If you are interested in learning more about breastfeeding, visit their website (click here) and view the links on the right side of the screen.

Tillman's follow up growth scan

I know I'm not following my own rules, as this is the second Friday, I'm not doing a fashion Friday post.  Honestly, the further I get in pregnancy the less "fashionable" I feel.  I'll think of something soon.

Yesterday we had the follow up growth scan on Tillman at MUSC Prenatal Wellness Center.  Things are looking much better.  In fact, we don't have to go back for another scan!  In short, the results are he has caught up in weight and abdominal growth!  He's still not at the ideal 50th percentile, but I think the 39th percentile is pretty darn close!

As the above picture shows his fetal weight is following with curve and his 33 week mark is much closer to the 50th percentile line than the 28 week marker.  The Abdominal Circumference graph has been plotted three times.  He got his first measurement at the anatomy scan when he was 20 weeks.  At that time, he was right on target at the 50th percentile, at 28 weeks he dropped to the 5th percentile line (middle marker on 5%tile line), and yesterday's measurement was back up around the 25th percentile.

Dr. Eugene Chang read our results.  The physician comments made were "a repeat ultrasound of this single intrauterine pregnancy was performed. The amniotic fluid volume was normal.  Today, interval growth is normal and the EFW is 4lbs. 9 ozs. in the 39th percentile." Biophysical Profile was 8/8 (fetal body movement (kick or anything) , fetal tone (fist clinch, arm curl, etc), fetal breathing movement (practice breathing for 20 seconds), amniotic fluid volume).

They also checked on the blood flow through the brain, umbilical cord, and heart.  All looked very well.  Tillman's heart rate was down from 155 bpm to 133bpm, but that is very normal.

We did get a few pictures of him yesterday.  As always, he had his face in the placenta and his hands in his face as well.  They tried to get a clear picture of him, but he wasn't having it! 

Special Delivery

I think the little graphic above is great for Tillman!  However, something else is also arriving at MUSC in September--New Labor and Delivery Suites!  Yippee!  They will be ready when I deliver.  MUSC Labor and Delivery unit renovation project is currently underway! Their Special Delivery of new Labor and Delivery Birthing Suites, Room Service Dining, and State-of-the-Art Equipment are due fall 2010.

A few weeks ago, I took a tour of the unit.  The nurse manager of the unit showed me around, and I asked her a few questions of what to expect the day of delivery.  It was really good to see the room and meet some of the people, so when I deliver I won't be as anxious (hopefully).

Labor and Delivery At MUSC- Day of Delivery

See video on MUSChealth.com-click here

Labor and Delivery At MUSC- Room Renovations and Tour

See video on MUSChealth.com-click here

Labor & Delivery At MUSC- Birth Plan FAQ's

See video on MUSChealth.com-click here

Growth Scan Video

On July 8th, I went for a growth scan at MUSC Prenatal Wellness Center (to see results click here).  Below is the video.  This three part video features me talking about why I was having it done, some footage of the scan, and then Dr. Newman explaining the findings.
Take a look!  If you have trouble seeing the YouTube version, click here to see it on MUSChealth.com.

Today I have my 31 week appointment.  I'm now seeing Dr. Villers every two weeks.  Also, tonight Nick and I go to the MUSC breastfeeding class.  Busy day of Tillman activities!

Growth Study Results

Tillman was not much into being on camera yesterday.  The majority of the pictures were of him with his hands in his face.  The picture above certainly looks like he is tired of the "Paparazzi!"

The reason for the ultrasound was to check on his growth.  My belly growth has been consistently about two weeks behind, so the study was to see if he is growing as he should.  As Dr. Villers explains the growth study- "A growth study is just to see how much the baby weighs and how much it has grown since your last ultrasound. We have standards to compare the baby to which helps us determine if the baby is growing at an expected rate."

Master Tillman is in the 27th percentile for weight.  The majority of his "lag behind" comes from abdominal growth.  His femur length is also behind, but I have pretty short legs, and Nick doesn't have long legs either.  An average baby is in the 50th percentile.  Tillman at 29 weeks weighs 2 lbs 8 ozs.  All his little pieces and parts are in place, and fluid levels are good.  The blood flow in the umbilical cord is good, so they don't have any worry about him getting nutrition. 

While they were testing the flow through the umbilical cord, Tillman was doing "practice breathing."  This is normal and good!  The ultrasound tech let us listen to him while he "preformed!"

He had plenty of fetal movement during the study, so I think that indicates that he is "thriving."  His heart rate was 144 bpm, and that was completely normal.

Comments from the physician report-"A repeat ultrasound of this single intrauterine pregnancy was preformed. The anatomic survey was abbreviated today but reported as normal on previous exam.  The amniotic fluid volume was normal. Appropriate interval growth was noted. The AC (Abdominal Circumference) was < 5th percentile on today's scan. EFW (Estimated Fetal Wight) was 2lbs 8ozs, placing the fetus at the 27th percentile. Umbilical artery Dopplers and MAC Dopplers were preformed with normal S/D ratio.  BPP (Biophysical Profile) was 8/8."

(In this picture his hand was chopped off by a sound wave.

Notice the nub?  An ultrasound is made up of sound waves. 

I think he looks like Captain Hook!)

We will go back in one month for a follow up to check on the little guy's growth!  All and all, a good visit at MUSC's Prenatal Wellness Center!

Week 27

Since my third OB appointment there has seemed to be some discrepancy on my due date.  This wouldn't bother most (I'm sure), but (of course) it bothered me.  The due date of 9/21/10 is extremely significant in the family.  It is the birthday of Nick's Grandfather for who Tillman will be named. 
When the LPN checking my weight and blood pressure said "your due date is 9/24/10, right?"  I immediately got tense!  "NO", I said.  She further goes to say that she can't change it since it is less than a week off.  This "silly" little thing has bothered me (not a good thing to ask me while taking my blood pressure!).  I still keep telling people it is 9/21/10. 
At my last appointment, Dr. Villers solved the mystery.  On my first ultrasound, he measured being due on 9/21/10.  On the second ultrasound, he measured due 9/24/10.  Dr. Villers changed it to the 9/21/10 date, so we're all good now (I'm sure she thinks I'm a little nuts about this, but hey....I'm nuts about a lot of things). 
So, I tell you all of this to say that I am officially 27 weeks today!

Here's what babycenter.com says about Tillman's growth this week. "This week, your baby weighs almost 2 pounds (like a head of cauliflower) and is about 14 1/2 inches long with her legs extended. He's sleeping and waking at regular intervals, opening and closing her eyes, and perhaps even sucking her fingers. With more brain tissue developing, your baby's brain is very active now. While his lungs are still immature, they would be capable of functioning — with a lot of medical help — if he were to be born now. Chalk up any tiny rhythmic movements you may be feeling to a case of baby hiccups, which may be common from now on. Each episode usually lasts only a few moments, and they don't bother him, so just relax and enjoy the tickle."

26 week appointment

I had my appointment with Dr. Villers today at 8:30.  I got to listen to Tillman's heart rate.  Everything is sounding good!  She did say that my belly growth is still behind, so I'll be going for a growth study (an ultrasound) on July 8th to make sure everything is ok with him and Tillman is growing as he should.  Dr. Villers doesn't think Nick and I will have a huge baby just given our size, but she still just wants to check things out.  I am very grateful for her being cautious.  It makes me feel really good about the care I am receiving.

The first thing I do when being called back to my appointment is get weighed...booo!  I've gained 10 lbs since my last appointment.  I officially weigh more now than I ever have in my life (including all fat stages that sent me back and forth to Weight Watchers)!  I will say 10 pregnancy pounds feel a lot different than 10 regular pounds.  The weight is all in front; where as the other weight gain is all over.  So far, I don't mind the pregnant look.  It is the first time I'm 18 lbs heavier, and people tell me I look good.

My blood pressure was also good this visit-117/70. 

The majority of my appointment was chatting with Dr. Villers.  I did ask her about stretch marks.  She did say if I had them in puberty (which I did); I'd likely see them again.  Dr. Villers said if you prone, then you are just going to get them.  It has to to with the collagen levels in the skin, and it is all hereditary.  She suggested after pregnancy to get them laser treated.  Laser treatment only works on the marks that are still purple.  Once they turn silver/skin color, there's really nothing that can be done.

We also chatted about my next appointment.  I will be receiving the shot, Rogam.  My blood lacks the Rh antigen (- blood type), it is called Rh-negative. If it has the antigen, it is called Rh-positive. Basically, since my body isn't used to Rh antigen and Tillman were to have Rh in his blood (+ blood type), my body would build antibodies against the baby.  Apparently, you are given a shot, and all is taken care of after that.

Also, at my next appointment, I'll be reviewing my birth plan or wishes during the delivery process.  MUSC has a birth plan on their website that I'll be filling out. Click here to check it out.

26 weeker = viable baby

Excuse the hair-HOT and HUMMID in Charleston!

As many of you know I work at MUSC Children's Hospital.  I am not "clinical" and do not pretend to know much about all the clinical stuff!  However, I am surrounded by people everyday that work with preemies, high-risk moms (pregnancies), children who are sick, and so on.  This is an awesome thing.  I ask lots of questions and absorb advice from the best!
Yesterday, after everyone got in a belly rub (I'm getting used to that...not too bad as long as I like you.).  A group a nurses asked how far along was I.  I said "26 weeks tomorrow!"  One of the nurses said a great thing "we got a viable baby!"  That is such a nice thing to hear.  If something were to happen, I know the NICU at MUSC Children's Hospital takes care of little ones at Tillman's size everyday!  (Don't get me wrong, if Tillman were to be born, it would be a long way to recovery, and he would likely spend months in the NICU.)

Of course, I asked this smart group of nurses about my belly growth.  They all made me feel much better.  One of the nurses said she didn't start wearing maternity clothes until she was at 28 weeks.  Let me tell you; I couldn't fit into my pants after week 16!

On the other hand, I've had comments in the elevator at work like "how far along are you?"  (24 weeks)  "Gosh, you're small!"  Elevator opens, they get out; and leaves me there to wonder...am I???
Another recent comment about my size came from another nurse.  "When do you find out what you are having?"  Oh, we're having a boy.  "When did you find out these days?  Around 20 weeks...we found out back in April.   Then I get this look...like what?  She didn't say anything, but I knew what she was thinking!

Here's what babycenter.com says about Tillman at 26 weeks:
"The network of nerves in your baby's ears is better developed and more sensitive than before. He may now be able to hear both your voice and your partner's as you chat with each other. He's inhaling and exhaling small amounts of amniotic fluid, which is essential for the development of his lungs. These so-called breathing movements are also good practice for when he's born and takes that first gulp of air. And he's continuing to put on baby fat. He now weighs about a pound and two-thirds and measures 14 inches (an English hothouse cucumber) from head to heel. If you're having a boy, his testicles are beginning to descend into his scrotum — a trip that will take about two to three days."

My Glucose Screening

I had my glucose screening a couple of weeks ago (as you probably know by reading), and here is the video to show you exactly what to expect if you haven't done one before.  Basically, you drink the glucola, wait an hour, and then have your blood draw to be analyzed for gestational diabetes.
Dr. Villers' office made the hour wait go by really fast.  I drank "the juice" at 8:30, and was seen by Dr. Villers at 9:00.  I was very busy during the hour "wait."  The staff also mentioned they will send the glucola home with some of their patients to drink 30-45 minutes before their appointment, so all they have to do is to go straight to get their blood drawn when they arrive for their next appointment.  All and all, the process was painless!
The "glucola" was super sweet, but if you know me at all, I love sugar (I've been known to eat it straight....weird...maybe), so it was no problem for me!  Speaking of sweets, I just found out yesterday that one of my showers actually depended on me passing my screening.  Luckily I did because my girlfriends (Mary-Margaret, Jennifer, and Catherine) and sis-in-law, Julie, are hosting a dessert themed shower!  My mouth is already watering!

This video is blurry...bummer.
If you can't see the YouTube video below, click here, to view it on MUSC's website.

Anatomy Ultrasound Video & Week 21 Update

As you read here and here, we had our anatomy ultrasound on April 30th.  Things have really picked up after knowing little Tillman Alexander was joining our family in September.  Below is a video explaining the scan, the actual ultrasound, and Dr. Donna Johnson (Director, MUSC Maternal-Fetal Medicine) visiting us after reviewing the ultrasound to explain the findings.
If you have trouble viewing YouTube, click here to view the video on MUSChealth.com.



We hit 21 weeks yesterday, so we're a little over halfway there!  It is hard to believe we'll be parents in four months...yikes!  This week Tillman is the length of a carrot and three quarters of a pound according to Babycenter.com!

Babycenter.com also mentioned- "You may soon feel like she's practicing martial arts as he initial fluttering movements turn into full-fledged kicks and nudges. You may also discover a pattern to her activity as you get to know her better. In other developments, your baby's eyebrows and lids are present now."

Since I have an anterior placenta, I'm not feeling much yet from Tillman. Tillman has to kick hard enough for me to feel through the placenta (kind of like he is kicking through a large pillow).  I am feeling lots of new things.  To me, they seem like little twitches, but no defined kicks or punches as of yet!  Also, I know things are getting crowded down there because I have to go to the "potty" every hour it seems (can't wait until he starts kicking the bladder...)! 

They also go to say some wonderful things that moms might be experiencing now-spider veins (a group of tiny blood vessels near the surface of your skin),!  I'm the lucky winner; I certainly have a few of those!  Fortunately, they state these are not harmful.  Also, I am fortunate so far to not have experienced any varicose veins, which pregnant women are more prone. 

Ultrasound Anatomy Scan Level 2 Ultrasound

Friday was our big day at the MUSC Prenatal Wellness Center for the Ultrasound Anatomy Scan.  I thought I would tell you a little more about the scan beyond finding out the sex of the baby (It's a BOY!).  The scan's main purpose is to rule out most anomalies and birth defects.  We had a 4D ultrasound (the fourth dimension is movement).
This is an excerpt from What to Expect.
"The ultrasound anatomy scan, or level 2 ultrasound, is an amazingly interesting experience for parents-to-be. Your baby will be measured from crown to rump (and what a cute rump it is!), around her middle, around her head — and that's just for starters. The four chambers of the heart will be viewed, as well as the kidneys, bladder, stomach, brain, spine, and sex organs (be sure to tell your sonographer if you don't want to know what he or she sees — or doesn't see!).
Measurements are taken to make sure your baby is growing appropriately (and that his or her gestational age is still on target). A survey of the organs, including the umbilical cord, ensures that they are developing normally (or identifies any potential problems as soon as possible). The sonographer will also be looking at your amniotic fluid levels, the location of the placenta, and the fetal heart rate. Settle in to enjoy the show: The detailed level 2 scan can take 30 to 45 minutes (depending on how cooperative your little one wants to be during the photo shoot)."

Juli, our sonographer, explaining the scan.  (Excuse the unedited version. I can't figure out how to edit on my Flip Video. It keeps telling me not enough room on the camcorder even when I try to save it to the computer...)


Check out the "cool" 3D photos and other movements of Tillman.

Purses for Preemies: Support a GREAT cause!

When people ask me "where are you delivering?" I confidently say "MUSC!"

MUSC Women and Infant Services being attached to MUSC Children's Hospital is the main reason I am choosing to deliver at MUSC.  MUSC Children's Hospital has the ONLY Level 4 NNICU (neonatal ICU) in the Lowcountry.  If anything were to go wrong with our child during delivery, I would never be separated from my baby.

When going to March of Dimes event, I hear these horror stories of moms delivering their babies at other Charleston hospitals, and their child had complications.  Their child was airlifted or transported to MUSC Children's Hospital while the mom was left at the other hospital to recover.  Their husband rushes to MUSC Children's Hospital to be with the baby, and the mom is left wondering if everything is ok and is separated from her family.  This circumstance is the #1 reason why I am proud to say "I'm delivering at MUSC!!"

The cutting edge research MUSC does The March of Dimes helps fund it through research grants.  March of Dimes does fundraising events through out the year help "to improve the health of babies by preventing birth defects, premature birth, and infant mortality."  MUSC Women and Infant Service and MUSC Children's Hospital are teaming up tomorrow to help raise funds for the March of Dimes in their 1st Annual Purses for Preemies Sale.  See the below flyer.  Come out and "Shop Til You Drop" for a wonderful cause.  I hear they have well over 1,000 purses!  Even Ayoka Lucas (local fashion expert) has "tweeted" and promoted the event! 

Here is a video of the parent ambassior for March of Dimes walk coming up on April 24th, 2010 in Cannon Park, downtown.  Maggie Thompson is now an employee of MUSC after her patient / family experience at MUSC.  After listening to her story, I know that I am delivering in the right place and for me, no other hospital in the Lowcoutry can compare (get your tissues out before watching)!