Take Two!

The Newest Photo Op

2008-12-23T01:46:00.004-05:00

So, Matt and Sophie's Aunt Nina spent the last week taking care of them and their extremely tired parents!

While she was here, they had their second photo shoot . . . and just wait and see how absolutely adorable they are!

I'm totally amazed at just how much they've grown over the last two weeks!

Our little babies are growing up!!

Here's the link: http://gallery.me.com/guidern#100091

Enjoy!

Two Week Update!

2008-12-23T01:39:00.003-05:00

Sophie and Matt had their two week appointment on Friday and it went beautifully!

Matt is now 7 pounds . . . even though anyone who holds him swears that he's more like 14 pounds!! Hahaha . . . Yes! Our son is a big boy! A beautiful, healthy and big boy!

Sophie gained one pound and is now 5 pounds 12 ounces! She may still be tiny, but she's growing beautifully!

Their pediatrician said that they are developing beautifully and that they don't resemble preemies at all! She was impressed by their ability to communicate, beyond what you would expect a 4 week premature baby to do. She was especially blown away by Sophie's expressive personality.

Their next appointment is at 2 months, when the yucky immunizations begin!

We'll keep you posted!

And here come the pictures . . .

2008-12-10T14:32:00.003-05:00

Here are pictures of Sophie and Matt's first days: http://gallery.me.com/guidern#100083

Their auntie Nina has been a little camera happy, so there are plenty for you to enjoy!

We'll be sure to post more as they come.

Enjoy!!

They're Here!!!!

2008-12-09T10:53:00.002-05:00

Just in case you haven't already heard . . . which I find hard to believe . . . Matt and Sophie have arrived!

You would think that, by now, I would be used to the sight of them. But, I have to tell you, every time I lay my eyes on them, I am struck by their absolute beauty and perfection! It's as though they each have this light, that shines from within, and just makes them glow. They absolutely blow my mind!

So, here are the stats:

Sophie was born at 9:43 am. She was 4 lbs 10 oz and 18 in long.
Matt was born at 9:45 am. He was 6 lbs 3 oz and 19 3/4 in long.

They both came out looking great and after a short visit to the NICU for Matt, they were able to join me in my room, and they've remained her with us ever since.

Since they were born, they've passed every test and screening with flying colors and every doctor and nurse has declared them perfect . . . I mean tell me something I don't know!

Today, we're preparing to go home and I am SO excited. If I was a little less tired, I may be a bit nervous, but since Frank and I are working on little to no sleep and operating in a state of delirium, nothing scares me! haha . . .

Anyway, keep checking in for the new adventures of the Cortez Family!

The Nursery

2008-12-04T17:36:00.004-05:00

Here are a couple of shots of the nursery!

Unfortunately, they don't catch a lot of the detail. But, at least you get an idea.

I highly recommend coming to visit us to get the full effect!

FYI - The amazing mural you see on the wall was painted by my mom, as a gift to her grandchildren! I think she did a fabulous job!!!

My 2nd favorite part of the room is their little library corner, which my mother and I have been working hard to fill. Sophie and Matt have plenty of words to entertain them for a long time to come!

I can't wait to bring them home, to their new room!

New Development!

2008-11-24T17:19:00.003-05:00

Well, you'll never believe it! But, Sophie and Matt should actually be here next week!

Yes! That's right! I said NEXT WEEK!!

At today's appointment we found out that Little Sophie just isn't growing as much as she should anymore! Her estimated weight is 4 lbs 1 oz, while her brother is coming in at an estimated 5 lbs 6 oz!!

My theory is that not only is Matt kicking and poking his sister, he's also eating all her food!!!

So, my doctor believes that once I hit 36 weeks, Sophie will be better off outside!

I'm waiting to hear from my other doctor to schedule the c-section. We're hoping for next Friday, December 5th.

I'll keep you posted as I find out more information!

December 19, 2008

2008-11-14T11:35:00.002-05:00

We have a date!

Unless something happens before, we'll finally be able to meet Sophie and Matt on December 19th!

So, that's right, in exactly 5 weeks, we'll be preparing to welcome Sophie and Matt into our world and our family!!!

My OB is convinced that they'll come even sooner than our scheduled delivery date . . . but I think she has seriously underestimated what my body is capable of and I'm thoroughly convinced that we'll make it all the way to the 19th!

The Countdown Begins!

2008-10-23T14:48:00.002-04:00

I had my 30 week OB appointment last night and everything is going beautifully!

It was at this appointment that it really hit us that the countdown has begun! It's almost time to meet Sophie and Matt!!!

From now on, we'll see our OB every two weeks! We'll also see the Maternal Fetal Medicine doctor weekly, beginning in November, for Non-Stress tests and to monitor their growth!

On our side, the nursery is almost complete! The cribs are up, the changing table is fully stocked, the car seats are ready and waiting and the gorgeous bedding that we selected has been made and should be delivered any day now!!

I just can't wait meet them and see just how beautiful they are in person!

Third Trimester Thoughts

2008-10-21T13:25:00.003-04:00

Hi Everyone,

Sorry I haven't posted in a bit. It's been really busy at the Cortez House preparing for Sophie and Matt's arrival!

Frank and I have been working hard making the nursery as beautiful as we possibly can . . . since Matt and Sophie deserve nothing less than absolute perfection!

This past week, as Frank and I continued to make the big purchases, a conversation with my mom came to mind and put everything in perspective. As you all remember, in January, Frank and I lost our first son very early in the pregnancy. We were devastated and my mom came to take care of me as I struggled to make sense of it all. Well, one day, my mom and I were sitting at a Starbucks, waiting for Frank, and we were discussing how that devastating loss would change our perspectives. I remember telling my mom that when we were blessed with the chance to have children again, that baby (at the time I never dreamed of twins) will be given the world! That day, I vowed that Frank and I would do everything in our power to create the best possible life for that child because we now understood the pain of loss and just how blessed we would be to actually become parents.

So, back to the present. Sometimes, I get a little overwhelmed by the daunting process of preparing for twins. But, then I stop and remember my vow. When I'm frustrated and worried that we won't be able to make this happen or that happen, I remember my vow and feel newly motivated to find a way to keep my word. And, I am so thankful that so far, we've been able to do everything we've dreamed of for our babies. From buying them a home to creating the dream nursery and moving home so that they would be surrounded by just so much love and affection from our family and friends, God is really taking care of us.

Thank you all for your continued love and support! This part of the journey is almost finished . . . and my swollen joints and achy bones hope the next few weeks just fly right by!

Chicago Shower

2008-09-22T15:23:00.006-04:00

So, this past Saturday was my Chicago shower and it was AWESOME!

It was the perfect combination of great friends and family. There was good food, great conversation and fun activities! I got to catch up with old friends I haven't seen in a while and hang out with my family, which always provides a good laugh!

My mom, sister, Alex and Janice did a great job pulling the shower together as I was able to walk away with tons of great memories, including personalized onesies, tees and hats that Sophie and Matt will be able to wear and see how excited people were to meet them. They also blew up and mounted an ultrasound pic of each of the twins, so that everyone could write messages to each of them! These will definitely be framed and put on our walls!! Last but not least, everyone was able to take home the sweetest and most thoughtful favor I've ever seen! Each guest was given a personalized CD, with a playlist of songs that talk about babies and parenthood! It was absolutely perfect!

Now, after my last shower, I mentioned how stunned Frank and I were by everyone's generosity and how overwhelmed we felt now that we owned baby stuff. Well, you can only imagine how we felt when we got all of the amazing gifts from Saturday's shower into the nursery! That night, my mom, sister, Frank and I spent over an hour chronicling all of the gifts! Then, I spent all morning Sunday just sitting in the nursery holding each individual item. It's taking both Frank and I some time to take in the sheer generosity that we were shown on Saturday. The nursery is filled with so many beautiful and thoughtful gifts! Now I just can't wait for the next 10+ weeks to come and for Sophie and Matt to wear all of the gorgeous outfits and play with the fun toys!

Here are just a few pictures from Saturday: http://gallery.me.com/guidern/100036

Well, now that the partying is done, the countdown has begun!!

This week, I'll be 26 weeks and we'll be in overdrive making all of the final preparations for Matt and Sophie's arrival!!

I just can't wait to meet them!!

Sophie and Matt's Day of Pictures!

2008-09-15T22:18:00.014-04:00

Hi Everyone, Sorry that I've been missing for a while. Frank and I have been super busy with our move to Chicago and getting comfortable in our new home! Today, I'm 24 weeks and 5 days and I had my first ultrasound in Illinois. Matt and Sophie are developing beautifully! They both measured in at 1 lb 10 oz.!! I think getting to see them today really helped it sink in . . . I mean, today I think I finally realized and allowed myself to believe that they're really truly going to get to come home with us! I've never felt so overwhelmingly blessed in my entire life! So, without further ado, here the latest and greatest pictures! Enjoy!

Here are a couple of pictures of Matt hanging out!

Here's Matt Eating! See his mouth open?

Here's a shot of Matt's boy parts! The arrow points the way!

Say "Hi" to Sophie! She finally let us get a picture!

She even decided to show us her girly parts! The arrow marks the spot!

And finally, here's a picture of Matt and Sophie fighting for space! At the top, you can see Sophie's little feet and at the bottom is Matt's arm (I think!)!!

New York Shower

2008-08-21T18:02:00.003-04:00

So, I had my New York shower this week! Let me tell you, it was GREAT!

I had no idea what to expect, as Natasha kept everything top secret from me! But, what I got was a fabulous and laid back evening with my New York friends! It was the perfect way to begin celebrating Matt and Sophie's rapidly approaching arrival AND a wonderful way to say goodbye to the amazing women that I have met during my time in New York!

I would love to share some pictures with all of you. However, I'm still working through the shock of how HUGE I've gotten and I'm not quite prepared to share documentation of my girth!

But, if I can get my hands on some "mommy-to-be free" pics, I'll definitely share them! Especially the extremely strange but oh-so-adorable diaper cake from Chrissy (no it's not edible!) and the gorgeous homemade miniature stroller cakes created by Ashley (totally edible!).

I have to admit that not only was I struck by how blessed I've been to make such great friends here, but I was also a little stunned by all of the baby stuff we now own! Everything is so cute and tiny and precious . . . and ours! In less than 4 months, Frank and I are going to be holding two extremely cute and tiny and precious little babies! I still can't wrap my head around that!

Next up . . . The Cortez Family Returns to Chicago!

See You Soon!

20 Weeks!

2008-08-13T15:43:00.003-04:00

Hi Everyone!

This week we had our last appointments in NYC!

It started with our last OB appointment on Tuesday evening. It was actually quite poetic as I actually met with the doctor who diagnosed our miscarriage back in January. At first she didn't recognize me, but once she did, she was SO excited! She kept repeating over and over just how happy I look! Guess I just can't hide it! Hahaha . . .

The appointment itself was quick and easy. She checked on Matt and Sophie's heartbeats, measured my big ole belly and reassured me that all the aches and pains that I've been feeling are perfectly normal.

This morning Frank and I went for our 20 week anatomy scan/ultrasound and it was overwhelming! You get to see absolutely everything! Kidneys, stomachs, spines, hearts, brains, etc.

Matt was a total ham! Every time the tech thought she was about to get a good shot, he would jump around or put his hand up to block her! I couldn't help but laugh! There I go, already encouraging bad behavior! Ooops!

Sophie on the other hand was very shy, or maybe she was just playing coy, she refused to change positions and cooperate with the tech. She just sat there and basically said, "If you want it, you're gonna have to come and get it! I'm gonna make you work!" That's my girl!

Ultimately, the tech was able to see enough to determine that they both look great! Everything they hoped to see was right where they hoped to see it! Unfortunately, only my son the ham would allow his photo to be taken (see above)! Little Sophie decided today was simply not a good day for a closeup. Hopefully she'll be less of a diva next time.

The funniest (or saddest) part was watching Matt be a total bully to his poor sister! He just kicked and poked and punched her space over and over again! And all poor Sophie could do was take it! Good thing there's a thin membrane and a ton of fluid protecting her! I can already tell that managing their relationship is gonna be quite a task!

Now on to the stats:

Matt is weighing in at 13 oz. with a heartrate of 150 bpm.
Sophie is weighing in at 10 oz. with a heartrate of 170 bpm.

All and all, everything is looking beautiful! We just can't say enough just how thankful we are! We fully realize just how blessed we are!

18 Weeks!

2008-07-31T13:46:00.002-04:00

I just can't believe I'm here! I mean, every time I look in the mirror, I have no choice but to believe it (we're talking big belly!), but still . . .

What a crazy ride this has been! I was just reading a post on the message board that I'm on and this woman was excited about the number of follicles she has this cycle and scheduling her IUI and it just took me back to all of those months of trying. All of those months of anticipation and stress! I just can't believe we're here! I'm just so overwhelmed with joy and gratitude, because I swear there was time when we never thought we'd make it here!

And where exactly is here? We have been blessed with not one but two babies! TWO! You would think that such a blessing couldn't get any sweeter! But don't underestimate what God can do! Because not only are we going to be bring home two beautiful babies, but they're a boy and a girl! A brother and a sister! A twin brother and a twin sister! What bond can be more special?

I had a quick appointment yesterday, because I was concerned with some discomfort when I walk. While I was there, I got a call from the genetic counselor letting us know that the final results came in from our amnio and our babies came back perfect! Out of all the conditions and issues they look for, our babies came back totally in the clear! That's enough good news to place any mommy-to-be firmly on Cloud 9! But, the good news kept on coming!

First, the discomfort that I'm feeling is common for women, pregnant with one baby, in their 3rd trimester (26-40 weeks). Now, even though I'm only 18 weeks, I'm actually already measuring in my 3rd trimester!! Can you believe it! So the discomfort is actually a good thing! It means I'm growing the way I'm supposed to! I also learned that apparently, my cervix is "like REALLY long . . . I mean it's great". What that means, according to my doctor, is that I don't appear to be at risk of pre-term labor!

Oh and on a totally separate note, I also got my one hour glucose test back and I'm not at all at risk of gestational diabetes!

So, that's where "here" is and the blessings just keep on coming!

Tomorrow we'll get final approval of our home loan and we'll be one step closer to owning a our own place to bring our wonder twins home to!

Thank you Lord for all that you've done for us! And thanks to all of you, for all of your prayers, positive thoughts, love and support!

Lookin Good!

2008-07-22T15:06:00.003-04:00

Hi Everyone!

Sorry I've been a way for a bit! Frank and I have been really busy preparing for our new life! Let's see what you may have missed.

Well, first, if you haven't already heard . . . we're having a boy and a girl! Yes, it's true, we're being blessed with one of each and we couldn't be any happier! The only problem is that I am at a total loss for boy names. All suggestions are welcome!

Let's see, what else? Oh yeah, we got the results back from the amnio! But first, let me tell you how TERRIBLE of a test that was! I have NEVER in my life experience something as horrible as an amnio. I mean, I'm sure that childbirth will be significantly worse, but for now that test is at the very top of my list! BE WARNED ALL OF YOU FUTURE MOMS-TO-BE . . . it ain't pretty!

Anyway, back to the results! Both our son and our daughter (tee hee hee) are absolutely, positively, 100% perfect . . . and I'm pretty sure the doctor also said beautiful! We can now sit back and try to relax as we count down the months, days, hours and minutes until they arrive! Man, I just can't wait!

The only thing left to update you on is our return to Chicago! We're so excited to be returning home! I have to admit that I'm going to miss NYC, my job and the wonderful friends that we've made here! The Big Apple's been very kind to us! But, there's just something so calming about returning home, where I can be close to my mom and sister!

Not only are we returning home, but we're actually in the process of purchasing our first house! Just the thought of Frank and I bringing our wonder twins home to our very own place is enough to reduce me to tears on the spot! A life like this, with a home and a family, is not something that Frank and I have really allowed ourselves to ever imagine having. The level of happiness that we have experienced so far and are preparing to continue to experience is nothing short of a blessing.

Please continue to keep us in your prayers as we continue to work toward our goal of providing our children with the best possible start in life that we can provide!

Talk to you soon!

13 Week Update

2008-06-26T17:23:00.003-04:00

Hi Again!

I've made it 13 weeks! According to some, that means I'm finally in the 2nd trimester! According to others, I still have a couple of weeks to go.

Either way, I'm so happy to be here! I wish that I could report that all of the morning sickness is gone, but it's not. Like clockwork I wake up every morning and make a beeline straight to the bathroom. But, if all if this means that our twins are healthy, then bring it on!

My next appointment is in 3 weeks! Which means, three more weeks until we know if it's a he/he, he/she or she/she!

In the meantime, take a second to vote for what you think!

Talk to you soon!

12 Week Update

2008-06-20T14:40:00.009-04:00

Can you believe it?!?!? I've finally made it to twelve weeks! Well, 12 weeks and 2 days to be exact! And, no the morning sickness has not just magically disappeared!

I got to see the little beans on Monday and I have to say that it was the best ultrasound I've had yet. They're actually starting to look like little babies and I had to catch my breath when I saw them wiggling and bouncing around! They're heartbeats are strong, both at 140bpm and they're still growing right on target, with crl's at about 4.79cm each!

Say "hello" to Baby A:

In this picture, Baby A is looking right at us and waving! Clearly Baby A is not at all shy! I'm thinking Baby A will be our social butterfly! But seeing that s(he) knew to look at the camera at exactly the right time, it seems pretty obvious that Baby A's pretty darn smart!

Now, say "hi" to Baby B:

As you can see, Baby B is a bit shy, always hiding! I have a feeling that this one is going to be our creative thinker! Ooooh . . . Maybe even our dancer! Watch out So You Think You Can Dance!!! Brains and all those moves to boot! Baby B is going to blow your mind!

Well, as you can see, the twins are doing beautifully. They're growing into what Frank and I are convinced will be the most perfect pair of twins anyone will ever set eyes upon!

Talk to you soon!

11 Week Update

2008-06-11T13:26:00.005-04:00

Hey everyone!

Thought I'd check in and let you all know how we've been doing.

You'll be happy to know that my symptoms are going strong! The only food that is even remotely tolerable is watermelon. I probably eat between 2 and 3 watermelons a week! Other than that, there isn't much that my body will let me keep down. I know I know, too much information!

Yesterday I spoke with my OB about my inability to keep food down and they said that as long as I'm able to drink lots and lots of fluids, then I should just eat what I can for now . . . watermelon and saltines here I come!

She also made a point to let me know that our last ultrasound was perfect and that the twins are growing beautifully and that when you get an ultrasound like that your risk of a miscarriage drops below 10%, which was great news!

What's up next?

Well, we have our ultrasound for 1st trimester screening on Monday at 3:30 and our first appointment with the midwife on Tuesday.

I'll post new pictures and give you another update then!

As usual keep us all in your prayers. All we can ask for is continued happy and healthy pregnancy!

The New Pics

2008-05-30T21:34:00.006-04:00

Say hello to baby #1 (cute nickname pending)!!!
S(he)'s measuring at 9weeks 3days, with a crown to rump length (CRL) of 23.7mm!

Now, say hello to baby #2 (cute nickname pending)!
S(he)'s measuring at 9 weeks 2 days, with a CRL of 23.4mm!

You can see both babies in each picture pretty clearly. But, I thought they should each get their moment to shine!!!

Oh yeah, I forgot to mention that the doctor said that she saw one of them wiggling!!! Hee hee hee . . . I was so excited, I forgot to ask which one it was!

Our First OB Appointment!!

2008-05-30T11:12:00.002-04:00

It went wonderfully!!!!

At first we had a little difficulty seeing baby #2, since s(he)'s hiding behind baby #1! But, after our OB moved us to a new room with a better sonogram machine we were able to see both perfectly!!!

They both have strong heartbeats and are measuring about the same. Baby #1 is 23.7mm and Baby #2 is 23.4mm. They both measuring at about 9 weeks 2 days! Which is why my doctor decided to move my due date up to December 31st!!!

That's right! The Cortez Twins will be here this year! I highly recommend you all start preparing now! haha . . .

I'll post the pics later today!

Clearly the prayers are working! So, keep them coming!

Love you all,

Des

Update on Babies

2008-05-21T13:11:00.006-04:00

Had to make an emergency visit to my doctor's office this morning after a bit of a scare.

The kinda bad news is, random things happen and I'm bound to be "scared" many more times between now and January 4th!

The good news is, just like today, these scares always have happy endings!!

The best news is, I got the first picture of the babies together!!! YAY YAY YAY!!!! Now, the baby on the bottom isn't quite as clear as the one on the top, because (s)he's further back. But, no matter, it's their first picture together . . . and I think they're beautiful!

Here are there current stats:

Baby on Top - heart rate: 157 bpm/ CRL: 9 mm

Baby on Bottom - heart rate: 154 bpm/CRL: 12.1 mm

My hcg and progesterone levels are nice and high! It's a beautiful thing ladies and gentleman!! It's a beautiful thing!

The Head!

2008-05-21T11:57:00.002-04:00

About a month ago, a mysterious package arrived at my office. When I opened it, I found a wooden statue wrapped in leopard print gift wrap, with no gift card.

Of course, my first reaction was complete and total fear! I ran out of my office with the statue convinced that some unknown enemy of mine was cursing me! I hid the statue in an empty room far away from my office and immediately hopped online with Natasha and Alex to get help figuring out who was trying to curse me!

Well, when I told Natasha what happened. Her response, "Oh good! You got it!!" My question, "Got what exactly?" Apparently it wasn't a curse, but a handmade African fertility statue from Ghana! Oops!

The instructions were to put it at the head of my bed and just wait. Well, that's what we did and 4 weeks later, we found out I was having twins!

Coincidence? You tell me!

Our First OB Appointments

2008-05-20T10:54:00.004-04:00

Well, it's time to move on to phase two!

Yesterday our doc gave us the go ahead to make our first appointments with our OB!! While this is very exciting, it's also understandably, quite scary! But, every time I start to feel that old fear creep back into my consciousness I remind myself of my new mantra.

Just in case I haven't shared it with you, here it goes . . .
Today I am pregnant. Today I am pregnant with twins. Whatever happens tomorrow or the next day will happen. There's nothing I can do to change it. So, I'm going to live in today and today I'm overwhelmingly happy to be pregnant with twins.

So far it seems to be working really well! Yay for me!

Anyway . . . the appointments are set. The first will be next Friday, May 30th, at 8:45 am. This appointment is for our first sonogram with the OB! Hopefully we'll be able to get a nice clear picture to post for everyone to see!

Our first full-fledged OB appointment with the midwife is scheduled for June 17th at 5:15 pm. I have no idea what will happen at that one! I guess we'll just have to wait and see.

So, there you have it! As usual, keep the prayers coming . . . for those of you who haven't been keeping count, we have 7 days left to go, before we've entered brand new territory!

TWO HEARTBEATS!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

2008-05-19T11:16:00.005-04:00

Not one, but TWO!!!

Yes, it's true! Frank and I are having twins! TWINS!!!! I just can't wrap my brain around it! You can see for yourself above! Well . . . you can kind of see! There's clearly something going on in the left picture! As for the picture on the right, I guess we're just going to have to take the doc's word for it! He said that it's hiding further in the back, so it's more difficult to get a clear picture right now.

This TTC ride has been quite a trip, I tell ya! We went from wondering if we would ever have one to wrapping our heads around having two . . . at the same time!

To say that we are overjoyed is an understatement! We couldn't be happier about the news!

But there is one thing . . . the Dr. said that they are both about the same size and have the same heart rate (140 bpm). That lead me to wonder, is it possible that my doc is crazy and only thinks he sees two babies in there, and in reality, he just keeps counting the same one twice? Just a thought!!!

Quick Update

2008-05-13T21:08:00.002-04:00

As most of you know, the past week has been an absolute nightmare! It was a week filled with pain, fear, anxiety, anger, frustration, confusion . . . you name it and we felt it!

So, first we'd like to thank all of you who were so extremely supportive and caring and loving through all of it. Whether you were with us physically or not, we wouldn't have survived the week without you.

We headed back to the Dr. on Monday. As we sat in the waiting room, I oscillated between preparing to accept the worst and envisioning the best possible outcome. After an hour and a half of sitting and waiting and thinking and worrying our name was called and we made our way to the room. Again, I took a deep breath and preparing myself for whatever we would hear next.

So, what happened? Well, we saw the heartbeat . . . then the Dr. noticed something else. Behind the baby with the heartbeat there was another baby! Yup, that's right another baby. Now, we didn't see baby number 2's heartbeat, which could mean one of two things. First, it's just too early and we'll see a second heartbeat next week. Or, all of the issues I had last week could be attributed to me losing one of the pregnancies.

At this point it's all just a huge waiting game. Let's just hope that we'll get a few more questions answered at Monday's appointment.

In the meantime, all we can do is pray.

A Very Special Day

2008-05-01T20:50:00.003-04:00

So not only did Frank and I see our baby for the first time today, but one of my closest friends gave birth to a beautiful baby boy . . . who just so happens to be my godson!

WOOHOO!!!!!!!

Congratulations Alex, Ted, Lucas and Olivia! Baby Victor is the perfect addition to an already wonderful family!

Love You!!

Baby's First Picture

2008-05-01T20:45:00.002-04:00

It may not look like much right now, but that itty bitty little dot is definitely a baby!!

Had more bloodwork and our 1st ultrasound today and it went BEAUTIFULLY!

My levels are increasing right on schedule and we're all feeling really good about this pregnancy! To all of you who've been rooting for triplets and even quads - hate to disappoint, but the Doc only found one in there!

Next appointment is scheduled for May 12th, I'm thinking by then we'll definitely get to see a heartbeat!

Morning Sickness . . . Definitely a Misnomer!

2008-04-27T19:34:00.003-04:00

Let me start by saying that I am nothing short of overjoyed to be pregnant again! We have been dreaming of this moment every day and every night of the past three and half months!

Ok, now that I've made that clear I must say that whomever called the perpetual nausea, dizziness and over all yuckiness that I've been experiencing the last three days is a LIAR! Morning has nothing to do with it! If anything, it's only first thing in the morning, that I wake up with the hope that maybe today the world will stop spinning and the smell of Frank's soup won't make me run for the toilet!

This morning I wasn't even able to keep down my prenatal vitamin! Now, if this is how I already feel, only a week after finding out that I'm pregnant, I'm in for a world of hurt over the next couple of months!

With that being said . . . I admit, I'm enjoying every dizzying, nauseating, yucky minute of it. If it means that at the end of the road, we'll have a beautiful and healthy baby in our arms, bring it on!

You don't scare me "morning sickness"!!

On the right track!

2008-04-27T19:29:00.002-04:00

Had follow up blood test Saturday morning. Levels doubled nicely! I'm now at 494, which means that my hcg level slightly more than doubled in the last 48 hours. YAY!!!

My next appointment is scheduled for Thursday May 1st. Not only will we get to confirm my levels are still increasing nicely, but we'll get the first ultrasound! WOOHOO!!!

I can't express just how happy I am to be back on this blog and sharing this journey with all of you! I have a feeling we're in for an amazing ride!

14 DPIUI (Thursday Morning)

2008-04-27T12:56:00.004-04:00

IT'S OFFICIAL!!

Had blood test this morning and my levels look GREAT!!!

My HCG levels are 187! That's compared to 89 at this exact same time the first time around. Now, this is great news, since one of the things that the doctor could speculated about what went wrong the first time around was that my hcg levels started out low and struggled to get to where they were supposed to be.

Well, not this time!!! I go back on Friday to check that my levels are doubling as they're supposed to (every 48 hours).

I'll keep you posted!

13 DPIUI (Wednesday Morning)

2008-04-27T12:53:00.003-04:00

Now that's what I call a positive test!

1 more day to go before we get to see the doctor!

12 DPIUI (Tuesday Morning)

2008-04-27T12:50:00.003-04:00

Tuesday morning and looking good!

2 more days before the doctor makes it official!

11 DPIUI (Monday Morning)

2008-04-27T12:35:00.007-04:00

Monday morning, before heading to the hospital to see Frank, I decided to take a pregnancy test. I knew that it was still early, but I thought, "Why not?" I mean, at that moment we could've really used some good news.

Frank was still in the hospital, with no idea when he'd return home. How cool would it be to surprise him with a positive test?

And what do ya know? Ta da!!!

As you can see the first one was still a bit faint, but as you will see, they got darker by the day!

2008-01-23T08:40:00.000-05:00

Goodbye Baby C

2008-01-21T12:08:00.000-05:00

This morning we found out that Baby C was no longer with us. This was confirmed by both our OB-GYN and RE.

Goodbye Baby C. We loved every minute and every second of the 8 weeks and 2 days that you were with us.

Mommy and Daddy will never forget you.

I've been officially discharged!

2008-01-14T13:43:00.000-05:00

Yes! It's true!

We officially get to say goodbye to Dr. Grunfeld and RMA.

We needed an hcg level of 15,000 and we got 15,819!! The nurse said, and I quote, "your levels are perfect!" oh and "Don't forget to send us a picture!"

Thank you all for your prayers. . . they definitely worked!

Stay tuned for next Monday when you'll get to hear all about our 2+ hour visit with the OB.

LOVE YOU ALL!!!!!!!!!

Discharged to our regular OB . . . conditionally

2008-01-14T08:51:00.001-05:00

Ok, so here's the deal. We went in for our weekly visit with our specialist. He started out the checkup with a bit of doom and gloom, explaining how this is the week where a lot of miscarriages occur. It's the make it or break it week. He also stated concern about my hcg levels, which didn't increase the way he would have liked them to.

When he started the ultrasound, it wasn't as easy for him to get a clear picture of Baby C (which may be because he/she is now moving up) or a clear heartbeat. But thankfully, we were finally able to hear a nice strong heartbeat, now measuring at 150 beats per minute. Unfortunately, we weren't able to film the ultrasound like we had hoped to, but Frank got a great shot. So that's what we're sharing with you today. The reddish-yellow lines at the bottom represent the heartbeat and the arrow is pointing to Baby C.

Now, I know I don't need to ask, but we need a LOT of prayers this morning. Specifically, we need to pray that when that nurse calls this afternoon, she tells me that my hcg levels are way over the 15,000 mark that Dr. Grunfeld has set for our minimum. We need to pray that my progesterone levels stay naturally nice and high, now that I'm stopping one of my two supplements. And finally pray that we will be unconditionally released from our specialists office and that we will be able to attend our first OB appointment next Monday. Just pray for us, please.

We Have a Heartbeat!

2008-01-07T10:02:00.001-05:00

So, Frank and I had our weekly check up this morning and it was AWESOME!!!

We went in hoping to see the heartbeat, and by see I mean acknowledge a faint vibrating line on the screen as our baby's heartbeat. Well, we didn't get to see the faint vibrating line! Instead, we got to hear the clearest and most beautiful heartbeat that I have ever heard! It was so cool!

Baby C's heart is beating at 122 beats per minute and she (or he) is measuring in at 5.24 mm!

We have one more weekly visit to our RE and then we should be released to our regular OB. Yay!

On behalf of everyone, I congratulated Dr. Grunfeld (our RE) on a job well done!

First OB Appointments Set!

2008-01-05T08:38:00.002-05:00

Ok, so I only had to wait one day to speak to the OB Coordinator and now our first appointments are set!

We have our introductory/sonogram appointment with out OB on January 14th. By then, I'll be about 8 weeks! I wonder what we'll get to see!

We also have our first appointment with the midwife on February 5th. I'm not quite sure why we have to see both a midwife and an OB. But, if it means more attention for me and Baby C, then I'm all for it!

Reflections - Month 2

2008-01-03T10:44:00.000-05:00

The hardest thing for me to give up is:

Unhealthy food! I'm trying my best to eat the healthiest food I can so that Baby C can grow into a healthy baby AND so that I don't gain 50 pounds!

This month I told:
Who didn't I tell? Basically our entire support network knows! I know some people prefer to wait until they've made it through the first trimester to share the news. But, the way I see it, so many of you have been there with us through the entire TTC (Trying To Conceive) journey, I wouldn't dream of robbing you of all the joy and excitement we're experiencing now!

They reacted by:
Let's see . . . there was applause, tears, high fives, hugs, swiffering (Frank), cheering, screaming, revelations of secret pregnancies, singing, . . . am I leaving anything out?

This month at my prenatal visit I learned that:
I technically haven't had my first prenatal visit yet, since I'm still with my RE. But as far as those visits go, I've learned that the things that SCARE ME TO DEATH can be considered normal during a pregnancy.

I've also learned that you have to pay very close attention to the screen when having an ultrasound or you could miss the good stuff (i.e. the heartbeat)!

New pregnancy symptoms I had this month:
Other than that one evening of morning sickness, I don't really have any symptoms to speak of! Well, other than a fairly active bladder! Oh, and I'm really tired most of the time. The last two days have been rather difficult adjusting to being back at work and not being able to take a nap!

Also, if worry and anxiety can count as a symptom, then you can add that to the list!

Other than that I'm just peachy!!

My hopes:
That I can learn how to just take a deep breath and relax! I've really been driving myself crazy with the worry and fear! I just want to be able to enjoy this without worrying everyday that something will go wrong!

My fears:
That something will go wrong! That I won't be able to stop worrying!

OB Coordinator . . .

2008-01-02T14:37:00.001-05:00

So, I called my OB/GYN to schedule my first appointment, in preparation of being released from my RE. I felt so proud of myself for being on top of things . . . Yay me!

What does the "appointment coordinator" say? "I will pass your information on to the "OB Coordinator" and she will get back to you within 1-2 business days."

Ummm . . . "OB Coordinator"?!?!?

Now, I know I'm new at this, but "OB Coordinator". Really? So, basically I sat on the phone queue for 10 minutes to be placed on a 1-2 day wait list to be contacted by a coordinator, to make an appointment to eventually see my OB. Hmmmm . . .

Anybody?!?!?!?

A Sigh of Relief!

2008-01-02T09:08:00.001-05:00

Ok . . . for those of you who don't know, we had a pretty rough time last night. I wasn't feeling very well and we started to worry that something might be wrong.

Well, first thing this morning we went to the doctor's office for bloodwork and an ultrasound . . . and as you can see, Baby C hasn't gone anywhere!!! THANK GOD!!!

To make things even better, the doctor showed Frank a faint heartbeat (it's still pretty early) on the screen! What an awesome birthday present, right?Unfortunately, I didn't catch it! Hopefully when we go back on Monday, Baby C will be big enough to give us a clear heartbeat, so I can see it too!

Right now I'm waiting to get my levels (hcg and progesterone) back from the doctor's office. I'll keep you all posted! In the meantime, please keep us in your thoughts and prayers!

HAPPY NEW YEAR!!!!!!!!!!!!

2008-01-01T10:41:00.000-05:00

Frank, Baby C, Foxy, Midgie and I would like to wish you all a very happy New Year!

We can't wait to see what 2008 brings!

My Thoughts for Today

2007-12-30T17:18:00.000-05:00

A new baby is like the beginning of all things-wonder, hope, a dream of possibilities.
-- Eda J. Le Shan

So, I've been worrying a lot the last couple of days! I've been wondering if Frank and I can really do this! Can we really bring another being into this world and give it all that it needs and most of what it wants?

I've been worrying about this quite a bit and then I found this quote and I realized that I've been focusing on the wrong things! Instead of focusing on the amount of love that Frank and I, and all of our family and friends will have to give to this baby, I've been focusing on how much money we will have to spend.

Don't get me wrong, I realize the importance of us having some semblance of financial security. But we don't need a Bugaboo stroller or a Pottery Barn nursery; a nanny or a cotillion to raise a child with values, beliefs, hopes and dreams! Regardless of whether they are born with a platinum, gold, silver or plastic spoon in their mouths, every baby is born with the same sense of possibility and hope.

So, I guess what I'm saying is that with God, our family and our friends on our side that maybe, just maybe it's possible that we have all that we need!

Best Christmas Ever!

2007-12-29T09:46:00.001-05:00

So, I have to say that this will probably go down in history as one of the best Christmases EVER!!!

Not only did Frank and I finally get our little bean, but we also had the opportunity to share the news with everyone we love! I wish I had a recording of my family's reaction! IT WAS AWESOME!!! All the yelling and screaming and I could have sworn I even heard a round of applause! It was right up there with the 15 minute scream fest of Frank's mom! We just feel so loved and supported!

Even better, I got to spend the first full week of my confirmed pregnancy with my mom and sister! They did such a great job of taking care of me . . . even if I really didn't need it! I have to admit that I was a bit teary-eyed as we drove them to the airport, to go home. It's hard to imagine that they won't be with me everyday of the next 40 weeks!

Actually, it's hard to imagine that most of you won't be here!

Ok . . . back to the happy stuff!

I'm also extremely happy that I get to share my pregnancy with one of my closest friends, Alex, who's pregnant with my Godson! YAY! Not to mention that I also get to share this experience with a very good friend of mine from Chicago, whose name I won't include until I get her permission! And, best of all . . . I get to share my entire pregnancy with my cousin Jacque, whose EDD is a mere 2 weeks before mine! How cool is that?!?! I see TONS of sleepovers in their futures!

Anyway, clearly my life is blessed! I'm truly one of the luckiest girls out there and I feel overwhelmed with happiness and gratitude and just plain old joy!

Thanks for listening!!

The First Ultrasound!

2007-12-27T21:28:00.001-05:00

OK . . . there may not be much to see, but there's enough! My mom said that it looks just like I did as a little embryo!

The doctor said that everything is right where it should be and that we should here the heartbeat in about two weeks!!

This post is dedicated to my sister, without whom I wouldn't have a picture to post! Thank you!

Morning Sickness . . . at Nine O'Clock at Night!

2007-12-26T08:41:00.000-05:00

So, I finally had my first battle with morning sickness . . . at nine o'clock at night!

I woke up from a nap and felt insanely dizzy and nauseous. My sister tried to help me by giving me water and sprite and I could barely swallow a drop! Thankfully after sitting (and laying) it out for about a half an hour I felt much better! Thank goodness! It wasn't very fun!

I have to admit that I was a little bit relieved! After obsessing over whether or not I would have a normal and healthy pregnancy for the last few days, it was nice to experience such a classic symptom!

Reflections - Month 1

2007-12-25T10:17:00.001-05:00

I started thinking I might be pregnant when:

I took my first home pregnancy test and there was a very faint line. . . after all a line is a line right?

I found out I was pregnant when:
Being as neurotic as I am, I bought test after test (First Response Early Result, Internet Cheapies, Clear Blue Easy Digital) and I used every single one of them! From Saturday through Monday morning, I probably tested about 10 times! We stared at the lines, analyzing the darkness, took pictures and analyzed larger pictures on the computer, compared the pictures to others on various websites. With every test and every faint line I became more and more convinced (as did Alex and Jessica)! But Frank was a definite hold out! He needed to hear it from the doctor's mouth! For that reason, I tried to barge my way into our Doc's office on Monday, to no avail, as my nurse said it was still "too early!" We had to wait until Wednesday! So Tuesday night I took my first digital and within 30 seconds we got a "PREGNANT"!!! I showed Frank and he kept swiffering! hahaha . . . But he definitely started to believe then! Wednesday morning, I went to my Doc's office for a blood test and that afternoon it was confirmed!

I felt:
Well first you need to realize just how long it took us to get to this point! This cycle was our one year anniversary of trying, which included 7 cycles of constant doctor appointments, daily shots, pills, blood tests, etc.

Oddly enough, the first thing that I felt was that it was meant to happen just when it happened! That there couldn't have been a more perfect time for us to finally get our BFP (Big Fat Positive for those who don't know)!

We felt ecstatic, nervous, relieved, scared, overwhelmed, re and blessed . . . definitely blessed!

Our baby will be born:
Late August 2008! We don't have an actual EDD yet! But we'll let you know as soon as we do!

The strangest symptom of pregnancy I had this month was:
Believe it or not I'm even MORE moody and sensitive than I was before! Example, I burst into tears and had a minor breakdown making a pot of pasta! Something I do all the time! I also burst into tears while watching an episode of 90210 . . . it was the one where Valerie moves away, so I guess it wasn't too unreasonable to cry!

My hopes:
That we will have a happy and healthy nine months! That we can give our child an equally awesome childhood as I had! I loved being a kid and I want my child to have that same childlike freedom that I enjoyed. There are so many hopes and dreams to share! It may take me a while to get them all out!

My fears:
I have to admit that right now I'm totally freaked about whether this is real or not! I'm so used to being at the doctor's office every other day. . . to take a week off, without them monitoring my levels and doing daily ultrasounds, is really stressful to me! We've waited for this for so long and worked so hard for it, we just want everything to go smoothly from this point on!