7:44am the phone rang. Caller ID showed: Walmart and a phone number not from around here. The DC's District Manager, Debbie Hodges, was calling as promised. She was super friendly and very nice. She didn't know that the DC had already taken care of me and she was glad that they did.
She understood my reserve to name names but promised that the information that I gave her would be regarded with the strictest of confidence and that Jerry and I will never see any ramifications from my conversation with her. She wants to use my "issue" as a learning tool. Whereas, this should never happen to another associate. While the policy is that after an LOA, I am given 30 days to find a position within the facility BUT the DC made a couple mistakes and I was put through something that should never of happened.
FIRST - I should have been told everything up front. Communication is key. I went into the office before Maternity Leave knowing that I was going to go over the 12-weeks LOA and asked straight out how this was going to affect my job. Not once was termination every mentioned. Not once did they say I would have to reapply for positions. The only thing that was told to me is that I would have a position just not my position when I returned.
SECOND - When I was able to return, since my job was not filled or even posted yet, I should have been offered the position on August 4th, not a month later. It should have been HR's priority to get me back working.
We spent about 30 to 40 minutes talking on the phone. Debbie was really curious as to what I thought was the biggest issues at the DC. She likes to take a little knowledge away from every issue that she deals with and she wanted to know what I thought. I told her that working in a store and working at the DC were completely different - as they should be. But I said that management in the DC looses sight of the people. In a store, you are reminded everyday why you are there. You are there to service the customer. Because without them, you wouldn't have a job, a paycheck or a company. In the DC it's not as transparent. We are up against production and how fast we can ship groceries to our customers, the stores. It's all business, no play. And while I believe it needs to be business orientated, I look at it like this: To management, we, the associates, should be their customer. We come to work and do the job, without us there would be no business to run. We make them look good. If we fail at something it looks bad on them and the iron fist comes down. But if we succeed, they look good and get promotions. HR is the Human Resources Department, they should bend over backwards to help every associate that crossed their desks. I literally got shoved from desk to desk with a different answer from everyone. Not a person in there treated me as if I was important. I was just another needy associate who was wasting their time because they had something better to do.
A while I was promised by both Debbie (DM) and Kathy (GM), that what stems from my issue will be much more than a conversation, I will never see or know the end result. As it should be, I will never see the punishments handed down. I have to trust that they all use this as a learning experience and know that I am here to stay, I can't and won't be swept under the rug. And while I expressed my feelings very well, Debbie asked if she could use my words in a quote. She said that she won't use my name but she has conference calls with ALL her DC's and she said that this is something that she wants them all to hear. I opened up a new way of thinking with the whole associates are the DC's first customers. And they need to help us, make them look good. Communication has got to be there. It is the key to running a successful business.
Unlike Kathy, who was disappointed that I didn't go to her first (I did but that's another story), Debbie was thankful that I got her involved. She told me that if I ever had an issue or concern with the DC, I am welcomed to get into contact with her at anytime. :-) She valued my opinion as a long time associate and thanked me for my dedication to our company. She also said that it was refreashing to hear honest complaints with resonable ideas to fix them. I wasn't just a hostile employee just complaining to complain. I was positive and obviously respected among my peers. I am a gem to the company and she doesn't want to see me go anywhere but up. :-) However, I did let her know that at this time in my life, my first priority is to be a mother. I would love to become management some day but only after my kids are grown. But what kind of wife would I be if I hadn't mentioned Jerry's desire to go up in the company. She asked about him and his goals and I told her that he is wonderful father and husband and I know that one day he will be a huge asset to the management team at the DC - thus the biggest reason I didn't want to rock the boat with my contacting her. Then of course, we shared mommy stories.
After our conversation, I am not 100% sure that Debbie was the one that contacted Kathy and gave me my job back already. However, Kathy knew something so if it was the Ethics Department that contacted Kathy, she might be surprised when she gets a call from Debbie. Or vise versa. Ooops. ;-) In my defense, I was trying anything to get my job back! lol
Showing posts with label Heidi. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Heidi. Show all posts
Tuesday, September 4, 2012
Monday, September 3, 2012
Answered Prayers
It's only been a day since my last blog posting and already SO many things have changed.
I'm not sure if I mentioned it or not, but in case I didn't I'll say it again. Last Monday, August 27th, I contacted Walmart's Global Ethics Office with basically the same statement I posted yesterday. They responded with this statement: "The follow-up date generated for this report is 2012-09-03. If your reported issue has not been resolved, please refer back to the website on or after the scheduled date. If you have additional information, you may provide that at any time." I didn't think too much more about it because it was the day before my pending termination - a little too late it my eyes.
On Wednesday, August 29th, I also sent an email to Debbie Hodges, the District Manager over the Distribution Center. I got a communication started with her and she seemed generally interested in helping me out and wanted to talk to me over the phone on Tuesday. After our initial communication, I also mentioned to her that I had been in to fill out a transfer request to a store and the DC promised to contact these stores and get back with me within a day or two with my options because I was literally running out of time. Now against the DC's knowledge, I had been in contact with these stores and kind of know what my options are going to be. And as of yesterday, I have failed to hear back from the DC about anything. I wrote in my email, "The communication is simple not there. No one has followed through with anything they have said. . . if I want answers I have to go in and see them face-to-face. Only then am I a priority."
I followed up the the stores that I had applied for - like my last blog states. And yesterday morning, I got a message from the Independence Walmart offering me a Support Manager position. Working four 10 hour days, then off three days. It seemed that my choices were coming in by the hour! To heck with the DC.
Debbie followed up with an email asking me to name names. I eventually did name names, but I made it quite clear that my husband also works within the DC and he is looking for a promotion. I wanted nothing that I did or said to affect him in any way. I'm the one they are all going to be mad at and I did not want it being taken out on him.
At 12:30 this afternoon, I got a call from Kathy Dailey, the General Manager over the Distribution Center. She is the highest level of management within our building. She started off apologizing about the lack of communication and wanted to know why I couldn't of had this conversation with her. I kindly reminded her that I did reach out to her about 3 weeks back and she didn't have any answers for me and told me to be in contact with Travis, our HR Manager. So when I wasn't getting anywhere with personnel, I went above all of them.
Our conversation was a nice one, she stroked my ego telling me that I was an asset to the company and she wanted to know what I wanted. What do I want? I want a position within the DC - anything besides order filling - that worked an opposite of Jerry. That's when she asked me if I would take my old position back. HECK YEAH!!
So here's what I know - she read part or all of my communication and someone contacted her, either the Global Ethics Office or the District Manager. Heads are going to roll in the HR Office, she asked questions, took names, and at one point said, "I'm going to make this more than just a conversation."
So the DC finally came to there senses and I start back at work on Saturday @ 4am. I really would like to think that they wanted me in their facility. . . but I'm sure the answer to my employment lies within the letter to the ethics office, communication with the district manager, or the fact that 3 different stores were offering me a type of management positions. No matter what it was - I'm SO glad all it's all over with and I'm back at my high paying job! Not to mention - I should return to a 50 cent raise for being with the DC a year. And September 12th will mark 6 years at Walmart. . . this time around! :-)
I'm not sure if I mentioned it or not, but in case I didn't I'll say it again. Last Monday, August 27th, I contacted Walmart's Global Ethics Office with basically the same statement I posted yesterday. They responded with this statement: "The follow-up date generated for this report is 2012-09-03. If your reported issue has not been resolved, please refer back to the website on or after the scheduled date. If you have additional information, you may provide that at any time." I didn't think too much more about it because it was the day before my pending termination - a little too late it my eyes.
On Wednesday, August 29th, I also sent an email to Debbie Hodges, the District Manager over the Distribution Center. I got a communication started with her and she seemed generally interested in helping me out and wanted to talk to me over the phone on Tuesday. After our initial communication, I also mentioned to her that I had been in to fill out a transfer request to a store and the DC promised to contact these stores and get back with me within a day or two with my options because I was literally running out of time. Now against the DC's knowledge, I had been in contact with these stores and kind of know what my options are going to be. And as of yesterday, I have failed to hear back from the DC about anything. I wrote in my email, "The communication is simple not there. No one has followed through with anything they have said. . . if I want answers I have to go in and see them face-to-face. Only then am I a priority."
I followed up the the stores that I had applied for - like my last blog states. And yesterday morning, I got a message from the Independence Walmart offering me a Support Manager position. Working four 10 hour days, then off three days. It seemed that my choices were coming in by the hour! To heck with the DC.
Debbie followed up with an email asking me to name names. I eventually did name names, but I made it quite clear that my husband also works within the DC and he is looking for a promotion. I wanted nothing that I did or said to affect him in any way. I'm the one they are all going to be mad at and I did not want it being taken out on him.
At 12:30 this afternoon, I got a call from Kathy Dailey, the General Manager over the Distribution Center. She is the highest level of management within our building. She started off apologizing about the lack of communication and wanted to know why I couldn't of had this conversation with her. I kindly reminded her that I did reach out to her about 3 weeks back and she didn't have any answers for me and told me to be in contact with Travis, our HR Manager. So when I wasn't getting anywhere with personnel, I went above all of them.
Our conversation was a nice one, she stroked my ego telling me that I was an asset to the company and she wanted to know what I wanted. What do I want? I want a position within the DC - anything besides order filling - that worked an opposite of Jerry. That's when she asked me if I would take my old position back. HECK YEAH!!
So here's what I know - she read part or all of my communication and someone contacted her, either the Global Ethics Office or the District Manager. Heads are going to roll in the HR Office, she asked questions, took names, and at one point said, "I'm going to make this more than just a conversation."
So the DC finally came to there senses and I start back at work on Saturday @ 4am. I really would like to think that they wanted me in their facility. . . but I'm sure the answer to my employment lies within the letter to the ethics office, communication with the district manager, or the fact that 3 different stores were offering me a type of management positions. No matter what it was - I'm SO glad all it's all over with and I'm back at my high paying job! Not to mention - I should return to a 50 cent raise for being with the DC a year. And September 12th will mark 6 years at Walmart. . . this time around! :-)
Sunday, September 2, 2012
Heidi. Job. Stress.
Wow. Where do I start?
One of the main things keeping me from this blog for the last month has been my stress level with my pending employment.
Here's the story:
On May 1, 2012 because of a weight restriction I was forced to start maternity leave. At that time I was told by the HR Manager at DC 6065 that I would have a job when I returned to work, just not MY current position. I delivered my son on June 13, 2012, shortly after I received notification that my job was no longer job protected and on July 24, 2012 my position would be up for grabs.
On August 1, 2012, after getting a release to return to work on August 4, 2012, I went in and talked to the HR Manager who told me that I would have to apply on line to job positions in the DC and I could not return to work until I had a position. However, my old position had not been posted or filled yet. He said it could take up to a couple pay days to start working again. I received notice that I had until September 4, 2012 to find a position or else?!?! I have since applied for 9 different positions and have currently been turned down for all of them. I am at the end of my rope, I never thought it was going to take this long to find a position. I have been employed with Walmart for over 9 years.
I love working for Walmart and haven't had a single problem until now. I feel as though I am being punished for taking maternity leave. Had I known that nothing was guaranteed, I would have rethought or fought the early maternity leave. But I was told point blank that I would have a position when I came back. I never knew that I was going to have to reapply for jobs without a guarantee of position which could ultimately result in my termination from the company.
What is the next step? I have never had anything less than a meets or exceeds expectations on an evaluation. Do I just sit back and get fired for nothing? How can I get a position back within the DC? Surely I am qualified for any position Walmart has to offer - In the store level, I have worked as a sales floor associate, jewelry sales coordinator, layaway/service desk, money center/site2store, cashier, CSM, and Department Manager, and on the Distribution Center level I am a fork lift driver.
I love this company. With all the negative press and associates that just want to bad mouth our company, I stood behind it, welcomed change and embraced it. I am dedicated, strong, and positive associate. I'm not saying that I have bad days, but it never shows at work. I am a hard, independent worker. I take pride in this company, it's my company. Nothing has ever been handed to me and I worked hard to get where I've been and where I am currently within the company. I feel as though I am an asset to ANY facility and getting told that I could get terminated without any reason - is difficult to swallow.
It has been a super stressful time with all this uncertainty. One thing was certain - I HAVE to have a job. There is no way we could survive on one paycheck. No way at all. The fact is we are struggling now, things need payed, things need done. Groceries or bills? What do you pay first? Arg! It's been stressful. We never thought I'd still be without a paycheck one month after I was able to return to work. Even though the stress is there, Jerry and I have gotten everything taken care of. When we think there is no way to get all the bills payed - we do. When we think there is no way to stock up on groceries - we can. When birthdays and school picture days come - everybody gets what they need. I am so proud of Jerry and I - these days of struggling are hard and I can see how they pull marriages apart. Jerry and I have taken life by the horns and pushed on. Stress is there, all the time. But the kids don't see it, it doesn't get in the way of life. We went on living. And I'm SO happy to say that it's paid off. There isn't anyone else I'd like by my side though all of this.
One of the main things keeping me from this blog for the last month has been my stress level with my pending employment.
Here's the story:
On May 1, 2012 because of a weight restriction I was forced to start maternity leave. At that time I was told by the HR Manager at DC 6065 that I would have a job when I returned to work, just not MY current position. I delivered my son on June 13, 2012, shortly after I received notification that my job was no longer job protected and on July 24, 2012 my position would be up for grabs.
On August 1, 2012, after getting a release to return to work on August 4, 2012, I went in and talked to the HR Manager who told me that I would have to apply on line to job positions in the DC and I could not return to work until I had a position. However, my old position had not been posted or filled yet. He said it could take up to a couple pay days to start working again. I received notice that I had until September 4, 2012 to find a position or else?!?! I have since applied for 9 different positions and have currently been turned down for all of them. I am at the end of my rope, I never thought it was going to take this long to find a position. I have been employed with Walmart for over 9 years.
I love working for Walmart and haven't had a single problem until now. I feel as though I am being punished for taking maternity leave. Had I known that nothing was guaranteed, I would have rethought or fought the early maternity leave. But I was told point blank that I would have a position when I came back. I never knew that I was going to have to reapply for jobs without a guarantee of position which could ultimately result in my termination from the company.
What is the next step? I have never had anything less than a meets or exceeds expectations on an evaluation. Do I just sit back and get fired for nothing? How can I get a position back within the DC? Surely I am qualified for any position Walmart has to offer - In the store level, I have worked as a sales floor associate, jewelry sales coordinator, layaway/service desk, money center/site2store, cashier, CSM, and Department Manager, and on the Distribution Center level I am a fork lift driver.
I love this company. With all the negative press and associates that just want to bad mouth our company, I stood behind it, welcomed change and embraced it. I am dedicated, strong, and positive associate. I'm not saying that I have bad days, but it never shows at work. I am a hard, independent worker. I take pride in this company, it's my company. Nothing has ever been handed to me and I worked hard to get where I've been and where I am currently within the company. I feel as though I am an asset to ANY facility and getting told that I could get terminated without any reason - is difficult to swallow.
It has been a super stressful time with all this uncertainty. One thing was certain - I HAVE to have a job. There is no way we could survive on one paycheck. No way at all. The fact is we are struggling now, things need payed, things need done. Groceries or bills? What do you pay first? Arg! It's been stressful. We never thought I'd still be without a paycheck one month after I was able to return to work. Even though the stress is there, Jerry and I have gotten everything taken care of. When we think there is no way to get all the bills payed - we do. When we think there is no way to stock up on groceries - we can. When birthdays and school picture days come - everybody gets what they need. I am so proud of Jerry and I - these days of struggling are hard and I can see how they pull marriages apart. Jerry and I have taken life by the horns and pushed on. Stress is there, all the time. But the kids don't see it, it doesn't get in the way of life. We went on living. And I'm SO happy to say that it's paid off. There isn't anyone else I'd like by my side though all of this.
After giving the DC a month to find me a position, Tuesday I put in a transfer request back to a store. Basically, I'll take ANY position to keep me from termination. After hearing nothing, I went to Raymore Walmart and found Shawn (co-mgr) and straight up asked if he had a position for me. He laughed and playing said yes. Then his jaw dropped and an evil grin crossed over his face when he realized I was serious. He was like a kid Christmas morning. After explaining to him that I had to have something by Tuesday or I'd be terminated for failure to return off LOA. He said he'd put me in any position to keep that from happening. But he had Department Manager positions opening up and he wanted to make sure that I'd still be able to qualify for them (normally there is a 6-month wait after accepting a position).
While I was there, the store manager returned from lunch and told me that the manager from Harrisonville Walmart called asking about me wanting to know if I'd be a good HBA Department Manager. Of course, he said nothing but good things about me and then told him that he didn't want to share me and that Raymore wanted me back. Now I haven't been officially offered the HBA Department Manager yet. But Harrisonville is closer to home and a guaranteed Department Manager. Both pros!! However, Raymore pays more and can't offer me a department manager department manager yet. There are some opening soon, just not opened yet. Raymore did hint that it wouldn't be long before Departments came open and they are lacking in experience.
So basically, I have a big decision to make. I went from pending termination to more than one option!! I think I'm leaning towards Raymore, even though they could only give me a cashier/sales floor position as of now, there are promises for department manager with more pay than Harrisonville. And I KNOW, that if a kid has an appointment and needed to come in late/leave early they would let me. I don't like shopping the Harrisonville store, the people are rude and the store is trash. Even though it's closer and a Department Manager position, I'd be stuck for at least 6-months and I like Raymore so much better. I have friends in Raymore, and Management is willing to take me back without a second thought. And they'll reinstate me all my time in and pay if the DC does in fact terminate me. Raymore is like home and I feel they have my back 100%.
Management was super excited and before it was all said and done I had 5 member's of management in there telling me not to worry. No matter what the DC does come Tuesday, the store can reinstate me and give me a position. So I am to enjoy my holiday weekend and we will figure it all out next week!
Oh the stress - thanks for visiting but go away! I am so thankful for everyone and their positive words to me. I really have great friends and some wonderful angels looking over me.
Saturday, June 23, 2012
10 days
10 days.
Tyler's been in our lives for 10 days.
It's been a rocky 10 days.
It's been a struggle to figure out our new 'normal' schedule.
Jaxen is EXTREMELY hands-on, he loves to give Tyler kisses and hugs.
Jacob and Chloe want to help, but their version of help isn't always true 'help'.
Chloe's learning to change diapers, and she is still grossed out with the poop.
No matter how crazy it gets, it's wonderful having everyone together while Jerry is on leave with us.
I am truly enjoying my last go-round with an infant in the house.
Tyler can sleep through almost everything - Jax screaming, Chloe and Jake playing/fighting.
Tyler is also a good eater, he loves to lock eyes with you when he's being fed.
However, he likes to be WIDE awake from around 10p-2a every night. :-\
We are working at getting his awake time in the evening, so that all babies are in bed by 10ish.
I am healing good.
I can finally pickup Jaxen without any strain on my incision.
I have been medicine free {not even Tylenol or Motrin} since Wednesday {1 week after surgery}.
I have been extremely thirsty and craving sweets.
My milk supply has finally given up hope of being used and has eased up - THANKFULLY!
I'm finally getting my energy back, I can cook my family dinner without having to sit-down.
At first, I was getting frequent headaches - but I think I'm getting use to the craziness now.
Tyler's next doctors appointment is Monday, June 25th - for a weight & color check.
My next appointment is Friday, June 29th - for my 2 week post partem checkup. {Hopefully, the doctor will give me the all clear to drive!!}
Tyler's been in our lives for 10 days.
It's been a rocky 10 days.
It's been a struggle to figure out our new 'normal' schedule.
Jaxen is EXTREMELY hands-on, he loves to give Tyler kisses and hugs.
Jacob and Chloe want to help, but their version of help isn't always true 'help'.
Chloe's learning to change diapers, and she is still grossed out with the poop.
No matter how crazy it gets, it's wonderful having everyone together while Jerry is on leave with us.
I am truly enjoying my last go-round with an infant in the house.
Tyler can sleep through almost everything - Jax screaming, Chloe and Jake playing/fighting.
Tyler is also a good eater, he loves to lock eyes with you when he's being fed.
However, he likes to be WIDE awake from around 10p-2a every night. :-\
We are working at getting his awake time in the evening, so that all babies are in bed by 10ish.
I am healing good.
I can finally pickup Jaxen without any strain on my incision.
I have been medicine free {not even Tylenol or Motrin} since Wednesday {1 week after surgery}.
I have been extremely thirsty and craving sweets.
My milk supply has finally given up hope of being used and has eased up - THANKFULLY!
I'm finally getting my energy back, I can cook my family dinner without having to sit-down.
At first, I was getting frequent headaches - but I think I'm getting use to the craziness now.
Tyler's next doctors appointment is Monday, June 25th - for a weight & color check.
My next appointment is Friday, June 29th - for my 2 week post partem checkup. {Hopefully, the doctor will give me the all clear to drive!!}
Thursday, June 14, 2012
June 14th - Day 1
3:30am - Tyler throw up all his formula from his 12:30am feeding. =(
6:00am - I woke Tyler up to eat. He's a super fast, inhaler of food!
6:45am - Clear liquid diet ordered for Breakfast. Hoping to be moved up to solids by lunchtime!
7:30am - Daytime nurses came on shift and took out my IV, Catheter, AND up'ed my diet to whatever I want! :-) I get to get up and walk around after breakfast!! So exciting!
0:00am - More to come. . .
6:00am - I woke Tyler up to eat. He's a super fast, inhaler of food!
6:45am - Clear liquid diet ordered for Breakfast. Hoping to be moved up to solids by lunchtime!
7:30am - Daytime nurses came on shift and took out my IV, Catheter, AND up'ed my diet to whatever I want! :-) I get to get up and walk around after breakfast!! So exciting!
0:00am - More to come. . .
June 13th - Birth Story
It's official. Jerry and I are proud parents of four! Tyler Grayson arrived in his OWN way in true Daily fashion!
6:30am - I woke up after not being able to sleep to well. Jaxen ran a pretty high fever all night and I was regularly getting up to check on him and get him is Tylenol/Motrin on time.
I remember the time because I was so hot and thirsty. I got up and went to the kitchen to get me a glass of ice water - which is super weird because water is not my drink of choice, especially with a fully stocked refrigerator of Mtn Dew!
I went in to check on Jaxen before heading back to bed and he woke when I touched him. I scooped him up and brought him to bed with me. Jerry cuddled with him while I got him some ice cold apple juice and a dose of Motrin. Mr. Jax would not settle down and thought it was play time in mommy and daddy's bed so I took him out to the living room where we could lay down and watch cartoons.
10:00am - After getting Jaxen to fall back asleep, I dosed off too. Jacob was the next kid I saw around 10am, followed shortly by Jerry. Jaxen was still sleeping on me and had me pinned to where I could not move.
Trying to get a head start on my To-Do List, Jerry got up and around and was headed out to the KC Pet Project to deliver our foster dog. . . she was ready to go back and we didn't want to have to deal with her while I was at the hospital. Jerry was also going to stop by Lowe's and get a few materials that he needed for his balloon pump that he was making.
11:00am - Jaxen brought me some trail mix that Jerry had left out. There wasn't much, just a couple cashews, 5-6 almonds, and a bunch of raisins left in the bag. I ate the almonds and a couple of raisins while Jax ate the rest.
11:15am - While still laying on the couch, I felt Tyler adjust - so I adjusted. As I did so, I felt a leaking sensation, like he bumped my bladder. So like every pregnant woman knows, you go to the bathroom so that you don't wait too long and accidentally wet yourself.
I sat up - it leaked a little more. {FYI - vaginal leakage or discharge is normal this late in pregnancy. It's your bodies way of lubricating the birth canal - preparing it for delivery} I stood up with a little more urgency to make it to the bathroom, when I thought - "OMG!"
11:20am - Jacob brought be the phone and I called Jerry. These were my words and my voice was shaky. "Jer, I really need you to believe me when I tell you this, but I think my water just broke." Jerry was on his way to me and the kids.
11:30am - I called Amanda - she's the first person I thought of that had her water break at home.
11:31am - Amanda calls me back! :-)
I can't tell you every detail. But I do know that Jacob and Chloe were awesome. Jake crawled under my bed to unplug my cell phone charger. He crawled under the crib to unplug my tablet charger. Chloe got her brothers dressed, shoes on them, AND packed Jaxen's diaper bag with diapers, wipes, and a sippy cup for me.
12:10pm - Kids were dropped off with Jerry's sister in Harrisonville and we were on the road to the hospital. I called the doctor's office to let them know that I was headed to the hospital because my water broke. They then let the maternity ward know that I am coming. It's a locked ward and if they know we are on the way, it speeds up the process. They had my chart made and my room ready to go when we got here.
1:22pm - I was fully admitted and prepped for surgery. I finally had details {and the time} to call my mom at work.
3:05pm - I was taken to the operating room for surgery.
3:32pm - Tyler made his grand entrance into the world!
4:10pm - I was back in my room, recovering - before I could see any guests.
6:00pm - Tyler had had his bath and I could finally feel my legs. Grandma, Grandpa, Aunt Joanna, Uncle Caleb, Aunt Amanda, Jeremy and Carter all got to come back and oogle baby Tyler!!
8:00pm - All my visitors had left and Jerry was getting ready to head home for the evening. He took the camera - loaded with tons of pictures - for Chloe, Jacob and Jaxen to see. {I can't wait until I get to see my babies tomorrow!}
After everyone left and it was just me and Tyler, we were able to get a little rest. Tyler is on a strict 3 hour feeding schedule for the first 12 hours because he is considered a BIG baby and gets his blood sugar tested before every meal to make sure his body is doing the work that I was doing for him.
Besides 20 minute cat naps here and there, I haven't been able to sleep. Tyler is a spit upper and he's freaked me out a couple of times choking on his own spit up. So while I'm on duty, I feel obligated to stay awake and make sure nothing crazy happens.
6:30am - I woke up after not being able to sleep to well. Jaxen ran a pretty high fever all night and I was regularly getting up to check on him and get him is Tylenol/Motrin on time.
I remember the time because I was so hot and thirsty. I got up and went to the kitchen to get me a glass of ice water - which is super weird because water is not my drink of choice, especially with a fully stocked refrigerator of Mtn Dew!
I went in to check on Jaxen before heading back to bed and he woke when I touched him. I scooped him up and brought him to bed with me. Jerry cuddled with him while I got him some ice cold apple juice and a dose of Motrin. Mr. Jax would not settle down and thought it was play time in mommy and daddy's bed so I took him out to the living room where we could lay down and watch cartoons.
10:00am - After getting Jaxen to fall back asleep, I dosed off too. Jacob was the next kid I saw around 10am, followed shortly by Jerry. Jaxen was still sleeping on me and had me pinned to where I could not move.
Trying to get a head start on my To-Do List, Jerry got up and around and was headed out to the KC Pet Project to deliver our foster dog. . . she was ready to go back and we didn't want to have to deal with her while I was at the hospital. Jerry was also going to stop by Lowe's and get a few materials that he needed for his balloon pump that he was making.
11:00am - Jaxen brought me some trail mix that Jerry had left out. There wasn't much, just a couple cashews, 5-6 almonds, and a bunch of raisins left in the bag. I ate the almonds and a couple of raisins while Jax ate the rest.
11:15am - While still laying on the couch, I felt Tyler adjust - so I adjusted. As I did so, I felt a leaking sensation, like he bumped my bladder. So like every pregnant woman knows, you go to the bathroom so that you don't wait too long and accidentally wet yourself.
I sat up - it leaked a little more. {FYI - vaginal leakage or discharge is normal this late in pregnancy. It's your bodies way of lubricating the birth canal - preparing it for delivery} I stood up with a little more urgency to make it to the bathroom, when I thought - "OMG!"
11:20am - Jacob brought be the phone and I called Jerry. These were my words and my voice was shaky. "Jer, I really need you to believe me when I tell you this, but I think my water just broke." Jerry was on his way to me and the kids.
11:30am - I called Amanda - she's the first person I thought of that had her water break at home.
11:31am - Amanda calls me back! :-)
I can't tell you every detail. But I do know that Jacob and Chloe were awesome. Jake crawled under my bed to unplug my cell phone charger. He crawled under the crib to unplug my tablet charger. Chloe got her brothers dressed, shoes on them, AND packed Jaxen's diaper bag with diapers, wipes, and a sippy cup for me.
12:10pm - Kids were dropped off with Jerry's sister in Harrisonville and we were on the road to the hospital. I called the doctor's office to let them know that I was headed to the hospital because my water broke. They then let the maternity ward know that I am coming. It's a locked ward and if they know we are on the way, it speeds up the process. They had my chart made and my room ready to go when we got here.
1:22pm - I was fully admitted and prepped for surgery. I finally had details {and the time} to call my mom at work.
3:05pm - I was taken to the operating room for surgery.
3:32pm - Tyler made his grand entrance into the world!
4:10pm - I was back in my room, recovering - before I could see any guests.
6:00pm - Tyler had had his bath and I could finally feel my legs. Grandma, Grandpa, Aunt Joanna, Uncle Caleb, Aunt Amanda, Jeremy and Carter all got to come back and oogle baby Tyler!!
8:00pm - All my visitors had left and Jerry was getting ready to head home for the evening. He took the camera - loaded with tons of pictures - for Chloe, Jacob and Jaxen to see. {I can't wait until I get to see my babies tomorrow!}
After everyone left and it was just me and Tyler, we were able to get a little rest. Tyler is on a strict 3 hour feeding schedule for the first 12 hours because he is considered a BIG baby and gets his blood sugar tested before every meal to make sure his body is doing the work that I was doing for him.
Besides 20 minute cat naps here and there, I haven't been able to sleep. Tyler is a spit upper and he's freaked me out a couple of times choking on his own spit up. So while I'm on duty, I feel obligated to stay awake and make sure nothing crazy happens.
Wednesday, June 13, 2012
It's A Boy!
Introducing Our Newest Addition!!
Tyler Grayson Daily
Born on Wednesday,
June 13, 2012 at 3:32pm
8 pounds, 9 ounces
19 1/4 inches long
Sunday, June 10, 2012
Making a break for it. . .
After 3 kids, you'd think that I'd be use to the belly movements - especially this late in the game. But Tyler is by far the most active at this point. Jaxen never stayed still and was constantly moving, BUT Tyler gets his legs going and you can SEE them. I can grab them, I can instigate him, he interacts with me ALL the time. He takes my breath away, he makes me remember that he is constantly with me. . . not that I can forget him!
Video #1
I live in constant fear that he is going to break my water! Let's hope this isn't a sign of what's to come in his toddler years. . . he might try to give Jaxen a run for his money! :-)
Video #2 - my favorite
Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, Friday, Saturday and Sunday. . . Count them!
7 MORE DAYS!!! :-)
Friday, June 8, 2012
Another one bites the dust
My doctor's appointment went well this afternoon. Blood pressure - good, weight gain - good, measuring - good, position - head down, heartbeat - amazing!
I did find out that I am tipping the scales and this is officially my BIGGEST weight gain during a pregnancy. But I'll take it because Mr. Tyler is measuring ahead of schedule!! :-) Which after Jaxen, is a HUGE relief. I think I seen a sigh of relief on Jerry's face when we got the good news!!
So see, with all that I am doing throughout the day, I am really taking it easy and behaving myself!! Now, the rest is up to Tyler. Next Thursday is my LAST prenatal appointment. :-)
Getting everything lined up, babysitters are confirmed for the older three, Jerry's got all his scheduling all figured out with coming home to feed animals and see the kids, and I am packed and ready to go. . . ready to run when the time comes!
10 MORE DAYS!!
I did find out that I am tipping the scales and this is officially my BIGGEST weight gain during a pregnancy. But I'll take it because Mr. Tyler is measuring ahead of schedule!! :-) Which after Jaxen, is a HUGE relief. I think I seen a sigh of relief on Jerry's face when we got the good news!!
So see, with all that I am doing throughout the day, I am really taking it easy and behaving myself!! Now, the rest is up to Tyler. Next Thursday is my LAST prenatal appointment. :-)
Getting everything lined up, babysitters are confirmed for the older three, Jerry's got all his scheduling all figured out with coming home to feed animals and see the kids, and I am packed and ready to go. . . ready to run when the time comes!
10 MORE DAYS!!
Tuesday, June 5, 2012
37 Weeks
** 37 weeks Pregnant --- OR otherwise know as . . . Jaxen +8 days **
Wow, I am topping the scales and this is by far my biggest pregnancy weight gain. . .
But before everyone starts yelling and screaming at me, I am grateful for the weight gain. Last time I struggled to gain weight, now it's piling on - hopefully, in 13 days - I am rewarded with a perfectly healthy baby boy! After all, that is my main priority right now!!!!
With that being said, I can't wait to get my body back. Once I get recovered and the okay from my doctor, I am going on a strict weight loss / body toning regiment. I am dying to get back to my pre-kids figure and I know that it will take time, but I am determined!!
I am feeling horrible. I suffer from heartburn, rib and pelvic pain 24/7. I can't sleep. I can't eat or drink what I want. I am clumsy. I am exhausted. I am irritable. I am short tempered. I am emotional. But of course, it's all worth it. . .
Arriving in 13 days!
Tyler is definitely running out of room. This morning Chloe and I sat on the couch for about 90 minutes watching my tummy go crazy. We think he got stuck. Chloe and I definitely could see and feel an arm or leg protruding from my belly. The arm/leg was about 5 inches long, hard and was stuck on my left side. On the right side of my tummy, he was completely wigging out and going crazy. It took about an hour and a half and I was finally able to move around without pain and the arm/leg was back in the normal parameters of my tummy! It was weird and ackward feeling. He definitely doesn't like being confined to a small space.
Saturday, June 2, 2012
Hospital / Doctor's Appointment
During the past week, Jerry and I have gotten a lot of little things taken care of for the pending arrival of Tyler. We've gotten another doctor's appointment over with -- leaving on two more!! -- and we've pre-registered with St. Luke's East Lee's Summit Hospital. If you remember correctly, we pre-registered with St. Luke's the last time around but we were shipped off to St. Joseph Medical Center to deliver Jaxen. So hopefully, things work out for us this time and we get to deliver at our hospital of choice! :-)
Since the last time, St. Luke's has added more rooms to their maternity center. The newly expanded NICU opened in December 2011 and is the only one of its kind in the KC area. Designed with the needs of families in mind, it includes all-private rooms with room-in space for parents to stay overnight, at the bedside. Parents also have access to luxurious bathrooms and a large nutrition area. So this means that for some crazy chance that Tyler has to go to the NICU, he will have his own private room with a bed for Mom and Dad. And since the NICU has private rooms, he will be allowed visitors!! Not like Jaxen where you'll have to look through the glass to see -- so no matter what, family can come get up close and personal with our newest arrival. AND Chloe and Jacob and Jaxen won't have to wait until Tyler gets discharged from the NICU to meet their brother. {Not that we are planning to have to use the NICU this time around!}
The Maternity Center is a full lock down unit and all visitors are buzzed in before the elevator even moves. The babies are monitored with ankle bracelets that will put the unit into full lock down mode if the baby gets too close to an exit or if the ankle bracelet is removed. A full lock down means that no one enters or exits - this includes the doctor's and nurses. So even if someone steals there badge and has their access codes, it will not do any good because they cannot override the system until all babies are accounted for / away from an exits / ankle bracelets re-attached.
Visiting hours are from 9am until 9pm, only exception is going to be the morning of delivery. However, my surgery is scheduled at 8am and I will have to go through recovery before anyone will be allowed back to see me. . . so it looks like I can't even see family until close to 11am. Not sure if you all want to wait that long in the waiting room! Visitors will be asked to provide the full name of the patient they are visiting (ME!!) and sign in and out of the log book at the front desk. Visitors are allowed in to see Mom before the c-section or during active labor and are allowed in to visit Mom and Baby shortly after the first hour of life. The waiting room is stocked with vending machines, coffee, TV, chairs, and couches. . .
And it looks like I am going to be admitted Monday morning at 6am and I will get discharged sometime Thursday. Mandatory 3 nights stay - Monday night, Tuesday night, and Wednesday night. Jerry and I are still working out the details of shuffling the older kids around. :-\
If you want to read all about the last visit we had -- not much has changed except the new NICU. The post for Jaxen's Hospital Tour is here: Tour of Labor & Delivery and if we actually deliver at St. Luke's we are going to try the Cord Blood Banking again.
Everything is set up at the hospital. All my paperwork is filled out and ready for delivery.
Everything is set up and approved with Walmart and my Short Term Disability Claim. Just waiting for the checks to arrive!!
Doctor's appointment had me measuring 37 weeks and still gaining weight. Heart rate was good and unlike any of the other kids, he reacts to our voices. And the biggest change/surprise is that Tyler is head down/butt up ready to go. I actually got to push and feel where his head was sitting. . . super, super low. Next Thursday I see my regular doctor and I'm pretty sure they will start checking for dilation and effacement. {Yuck!}
Only thing left is to finish packing and figure out a game plan with the kids. I'm kind of hoping Tyler decides to come a week early. . . Chloe's missing out on her final baseball game {and they are only playing 4 games this year} where she receives her trophy because of my surgery. I'm bummed about that, but she seems to be okay with it.
Lastly, I will leave you with this photo. My very oddly shaped, uncomfortable belly - all because Tyler has his butt sticking up. . .
Since the last time, St. Luke's has added more rooms to their maternity center. The newly expanded NICU opened in December 2011 and is the only one of its kind in the KC area. Designed with the needs of families in mind, it includes all-private rooms with room-in space for parents to stay overnight, at the bedside. Parents also have access to luxurious bathrooms and a large nutrition area. So this means that for some crazy chance that Tyler has to go to the NICU, he will have his own private room with a bed for Mom and Dad. And since the NICU has private rooms, he will be allowed visitors!! Not like Jaxen where you'll have to look through the glass to see -- so no matter what, family can come get up close and personal with our newest arrival. AND Chloe and Jacob and Jaxen won't have to wait until Tyler gets discharged from the NICU to meet their brother. {Not that we are planning to have to use the NICU this time around!}
The Maternity Center is a full lock down unit and all visitors are buzzed in before the elevator even moves. The babies are monitored with ankle bracelets that will put the unit into full lock down mode if the baby gets too close to an exit or if the ankle bracelet is removed. A full lock down means that no one enters or exits - this includes the doctor's and nurses. So even if someone steals there badge and has their access codes, it will not do any good because they cannot override the system until all babies are accounted for / away from an exits / ankle bracelets re-attached.
Visiting hours are from 9am until 9pm, only exception is going to be the morning of delivery. However, my surgery is scheduled at 8am and I will have to go through recovery before anyone will be allowed back to see me. . . so it looks like I can't even see family until close to 11am. Not sure if you all want to wait that long in the waiting room! Visitors will be asked to provide the full name of the patient they are visiting (ME!!) and sign in and out of the log book at the front desk. Visitors are allowed in to see Mom before the c-section or during active labor and are allowed in to visit Mom and Baby shortly after the first hour of life. The waiting room is stocked with vending machines, coffee, TV, chairs, and couches. . .
And it looks like I am going to be admitted Monday morning at 6am and I will get discharged sometime Thursday. Mandatory 3 nights stay - Monday night, Tuesday night, and Wednesday night. Jerry and I are still working out the details of shuffling the older kids around. :-\
If you want to read all about the last visit we had -- not much has changed except the new NICU. The post for Jaxen's Hospital Tour is here: Tour of Labor & Delivery and if we actually deliver at St. Luke's we are going to try the Cord Blood Banking again.
Everything is set up at the hospital. All my paperwork is filled out and ready for delivery.
Everything is set up and approved with Walmart and my Short Term Disability Claim. Just waiting for the checks to arrive!!
Doctor's appointment had me measuring 37 weeks and still gaining weight. Heart rate was good and unlike any of the other kids, he reacts to our voices. And the biggest change/surprise is that Tyler is head down/butt up ready to go. I actually got to push and feel where his head was sitting. . . super, super low. Next Thursday I see my regular doctor and I'm pretty sure they will start checking for dilation and effacement. {Yuck!}
Only thing left is to finish packing and figure out a game plan with the kids. I'm kind of hoping Tyler decides to come a week early. . . Chloe's missing out on her final baseball game {and they are only playing 4 games this year} where she receives her trophy because of my surgery. I'm bummed about that, but she seems to be okay with it.
Lastly, I will leave you with this photo. My very oddly shaped, uncomfortable belly - all because Tyler has his butt sticking up. . .
Friday, June 1, 2012
Monday, May 21, 2012
9th Month
So far, my 9th and FINAL month of pregnancy isn't playing very nice. I cannot even imagine having to go 4 more weeks feeling like this!
I woke up this morning with a huge toothache and headache. After literally lying around on the couch for most of the day, the toothache is gone but my headache is still there. I'm drinking tons of water and apple juice - trying to keep my fluids up. I even had a Mt. Dew this afternoon, thinking that I was caffeine deprived - I've really backed off the Mt. Dew because it was giving me major heartburn.
Chloe and Jacob watched cartoons and played with the bunnies downstairs for a good part of the day. They are pretty good entertaining themselves - as long as you feed them regularly!! :-) Jaxen on the other hand was my little buddy. . . he was always bringing me his toys and throwing {soft} balls at me! He needed a lot of entertainment from me, but I got through the day.
One more day parenting by myself. Jerry comes home tomorrow morning and he'll have to sleep a little bit - but then he will be awake enough to help me out. The weekends are tough for me, because Jerry still has to go to work and Jaxen is so needy / doesn't understand "not using Mom's belly as a playground"! Just that alone is making this the hardest pregnancy by far! I am beginning to believe that Jaxen is the main reason for most of my hard contractions and why I have such a harder time on the weekends verses the weekdays when Jerry is home.
Four. more. weeks. That's what I have to keep telling myself. 27 Days or 657 Hours until c-section! =)
I woke up this morning with a huge toothache and headache. After literally lying around on the couch for most of the day, the toothache is gone but my headache is still there. I'm drinking tons of water and apple juice - trying to keep my fluids up. I even had a Mt. Dew this afternoon, thinking that I was caffeine deprived - I've really backed off the Mt. Dew because it was giving me major heartburn.
Chloe and Jacob watched cartoons and played with the bunnies downstairs for a good part of the day. They are pretty good entertaining themselves - as long as you feed them regularly!! :-) Jaxen on the other hand was my little buddy. . . he was always bringing me his toys and throwing {soft} balls at me! He needed a lot of entertainment from me, but I got through the day.
One more day parenting by myself. Jerry comes home tomorrow morning and he'll have to sleep a little bit - but then he will be awake enough to help me out. The weekends are tough for me, because Jerry still has to go to work and Jaxen is so needy / doesn't understand "not using Mom's belly as a playground"! Just that alone is making this the hardest pregnancy by far! I am beginning to believe that Jaxen is the main reason for most of my hard contractions and why I have such a harder time on the weekends verses the weekdays when Jerry is home.
Four. more. weeks. That's what I have to keep telling myself. 27 Days or 657 Hours until c-section! =)
Sunday, May 20, 2012
Counting Contractions. . .
Sunday, May 20th
9:00PM -
9:00PM -
- Contraction strong enough to make me stop what I was doing and hold my breath.
- Laid down, relaxed with feet up.
- Lower back pain began, left leg feels like it's going to fall off at my hip.
- Lots of crazy moments, C-R-A-Z-Y stuff.
- Tyler must not like contractions because he goes nuts during the time I'm not contracting.
- Contractions calmed, Baby calmed, left hip is still feeling weird.
- Called Jerry, let him know what was going on.
- Getting in the shower - in case we end up at Labor & Delivery tonight, I will be clean! LOL
- {I doubt things will start back up again tonight. . . maybe L&D is just wishful thinking!}
35 weeks. . . J & T
Last side-by-side to compare Jaxen & Tyler.
On the left, 35 weeks was the last pregnant picture I have of Jaxen. . . he was delivered 7 days later via emergency c-section and spent 6 days in the NICU.
I took the picture on the right tonight. . . which officially marks the 35 week mark with Tyler. Let's just hope I have longer than 7 days before he is delivered.
I'm trying really hard not to get nervous -- and I'm trying not to compare the two pregnancies -- but it's hard. SO many things on my to-do list before Tyler arrives. . . and my personal deadline is 7 days! In 7 days, I hope to be all packed and ready -- something I wasn't with Jaxen.
Saturday, April 21, 2012
Less than 2 months. . .
It's hard to believe we are so close!!
Thursday, April 19, 2012
Doctor's Appointment - 30w4d
Anyways!! On a positive note, I am NOT dilating yet -- we got the joy of checking today, just to make sure that the contractions weren't doing anything yet. The moment I start dilating it's almost game over for me because of the added risk going into labor provides! The baby's heartbeat and measurements are right on track. At this point, there are no signs of anything going the way Jaxen did. . . but everything can change in the matter of hours. . . such a horrible game to be playing. Blood Pressure and weight gain are good.
C-section is being scheduled and they should call me with the time and date by Monday at the latest. At that point we will schedule a visit to the maternity ward to check things out, pre-register, and get our questions asked. Ideally, the c-section will be scheduled in my 39th week -- leaving only 8 weeks and 4 days to go!!
May 3rd is my next appointment.
Thursday, March 22, 2012
26w3d - Here we go. . .
Well - I can't say I'm surprised. I was really hoping this pregnancy would be easy and simple. . . But the doctor's office called me on Wednesday. My heart sunk as I read the caller ID. . . automatically fearing the worse, hoping for the best.
My glucose test came back good. But along with the diabetes check they run my hemoglobin to check for an iron deficiency. The test came back anemic. Grr! No biggie for most pregnant mommas - after all, I was anemic with Chloe, too - but this time around it could spell trouble ahead. The biggest reason to be worried is because the extra iron is needed for the placenta - which is what eventually failed during my pregnancy with Jaxen and is the one thing we are watching so closely! Low iron is taken seriously because it increases the risk of preterm delivery, low birth weight and a higher risk of stillbirth or newborn death. I had a higher chance of anemia this time around because of the two pregnancies being so close together. My body hasn't had the time to replenish everything it lost the last time.
With all that being said - after visiting two pharmacies and getting help from a super nice pharmacist this morning, I finally found and picked up my iron supplement. . . I have to take it twice a day, along with my prenatal. {Now with Chloe, I only had to take one iron supplement a day and it was a tiny little pill. This time, I have to take a Slow release iron twice a day. You can only imagine how much iron I am taking now! Only ONE of the slow release iron pills is 264% of the Daily Value. . . times that by 2 and then add the 150% my prenatal vitamin is giving me!}
The doctor said that this will explain why I am so tired, weak, and dizzy lately. Along with the other issues I've been complaining of: rapid heartbeat, shortness of breath, headache, irritability, and trouble concentrating. The last couple of days I have been feeling absolutely horrible, like I'm living in a fog. Here's to hoping this iron supplement is miracle pill and will help me feel better.
Counting my blessings - only about 87 more days to go and we hit our first snag in the road! AND this snag was found fairly early enough to be corrected before we get to that point of no return.
My glucose test came back good. But along with the diabetes check they run my hemoglobin to check for an iron deficiency. The test came back anemic. Grr! No biggie for most pregnant mommas - after all, I was anemic with Chloe, too - but this time around it could spell trouble ahead. The biggest reason to be worried is because the extra iron is needed for the placenta - which is what eventually failed during my pregnancy with Jaxen and is the one thing we are watching so closely! Low iron is taken seriously because it increases the risk of preterm delivery, low birth weight and a higher risk of stillbirth or newborn death. I had a higher chance of anemia this time around because of the two pregnancies being so close together. My body hasn't had the time to replenish everything it lost the last time.
With all that being said - after visiting two pharmacies and getting help from a super nice pharmacist this morning, I finally found and picked up my iron supplement. . . I have to take it twice a day, along with my prenatal. {Now with Chloe, I only had to take one iron supplement a day and it was a tiny little pill. This time, I have to take a Slow release iron twice a day. You can only imagine how much iron I am taking now! Only ONE of the slow release iron pills is 264% of the Daily Value. . . times that by 2 and then add the 150% my prenatal vitamin is giving me!}
The doctor said that this will explain why I am so tired, weak, and dizzy lately. Along with the other issues I've been complaining of: rapid heartbeat, shortness of breath, headache, irritability, and trouble concentrating. The last couple of days I have been feeling absolutely horrible, like I'm living in a fog. Here's to hoping this iron supplement is miracle pill and will help me feel better.
Counting my blessings - only about 87 more days to go and we hit our first snag in the road! AND this snag was found fairly early enough to be corrected before we get to that point of no return.
Sunday, March 4, 2012
Hopes & Fears
Here I am. Today officially marks exactly four weeks until the beginning of the third trimester. I've been in the position 3 times before, each pregnancy different - but yet the same. I should be used to this. I am used to this. But this time, it's so very different. Milestones are sad, knowing that this is the last. Milestones are sweeter, knowing I'm one step closer without complication. Milestones are difficult - feeling my body giving out faster. Heck it should be tired, it's done it 3 times before!
I do find myself wishing this pregnancy would go faster or be over already. Which is sad. I'm going to miss this chapter in my life. I know I am. It's a miracle each time it happens. It's lovely, it's fun. I should enjoy it. But the truth is, as much as I want to sit back and enjoy everything like I did before - I can't. My life doesn't stand still. . . I have a super active schedule that revolves around the kids. And truth is, I LOVE THAT! This baby is just going to have to come out and go with the punches!!
Right now, I am in full swing with school activities - Cass-Midway Elementary & Kinder Kastle Preschool, Girl Scouts - Daisy Troop, Brownie Troop, Junior Troop, & Cadette Troop, Parents As Teachers with Jaxen, and Library Story & Craft Time with the boys. Not to mention all the fun things we get to do this month - such as, Disney On Ice, Girl Scouts 100th Anniversary Celebration and Field Trips! Summer should calm some things down but then we start up with Summer Ball with Chloe.
The milestones of this pregnancy are coming and going faster than I can slow down and enjoy it. And I think that's the way I am suppose to enjoy pregnancy #4. Right now, milestones are the greatest joy and time to pause and reflect on this journey.
My biggest fears are associated with complications. And milestones are getting me through this. . . a few "milestones" that I would like to reach before any complications arise and baby is born would be:
Next biggest stress factor -- finding a NAME for baby boy!! :-)
I do find myself wishing this pregnancy would go faster or be over already. Which is sad. I'm going to miss this chapter in my life. I know I am. It's a miracle each time it happens. It's lovely, it's fun. I should enjoy it. But the truth is, as much as I want to sit back and enjoy everything like I did before - I can't. My life doesn't stand still. . . I have a super active schedule that revolves around the kids. And truth is, I LOVE THAT! This baby is just going to have to come out and go with the punches!!
Right now, I am in full swing with school activities - Cass-Midway Elementary & Kinder Kastle Preschool, Girl Scouts - Daisy Troop, Brownie Troop, Junior Troop, & Cadette Troop, Parents As Teachers with Jaxen, and Library Story & Craft Time with the boys. Not to mention all the fun things we get to do this month - such as, Disney On Ice, Girl Scouts 100th Anniversary Celebration and Field Trips! Summer should calm some things down but then we start up with Summer Ball with Chloe.
The milestones of this pregnancy are coming and going faster than I can slow down and enjoy it. And I think that's the way I am suppose to enjoy pregnancy #4. Right now, milestones are the greatest joy and time to pause and reflect on this journey.
My biggest fears are associated with complications. And milestones are getting me through this. . . a few "milestones" that I would like to reach before any complications arise and baby is born would be:
- Getting to the 3rd Trimester (April 1st!)
- Getting through my Girl Scout Camp Out (April 27th, 28th, & 29th)
- Getting out of school for the summer. (Jacob - May 11th, Chloe - May 15th)
- Just getting to JUNE. The 1st will make 36 weeks, 5 days -- Meaning I would be pregnant 5 days longer than I was with Jaxen.
- Every day I stay pregnant in June will be a milestone and blessing by itself!!
- Getting to June 17th -- Father's Day -- 39 weeks pregnant, baby can officially come out!!
Next biggest stress factor -- finding a NAME for baby boy!! :-)
Saturday, January 28, 2012
19w0d Update
I can't believe Wednesday will mark half-way for me on this fourth and final journey. {Half-way is determined by a c-section delivery at 39 weeks - remember, this is the latest that they will let me go. So in all reality, I could of been half-way last week! = )} The time is just flying by and up until this point I {besides the morning sickness, in the beginning} I haven't felt really "pregnant". I can't say that I really "feel" pregnant, I guess it's more that I can feel my body slowing down. I get tired and irritated a lot easier. Simple things can set me off in a snap. . . I'm trying really hard to control it but it seems to be in control before I realize it. I'm thinking that I just need a day off. . . a day to sleep in, a day to relax, a day with Daddy in charge. Jerry's starting to feel a lot better. In fact, he's been able to wean himself down off the medicine, taking more than anything an anti-inflammatory drug to keep the swelling down. And once our work week is over, Jerry's promised me a much needed day of rest.
Work is an added stress lately. I'm still doing my normal duties, which is what I want, but I am slowing down. I think it's only a matter of weeks now before my secret is out at work. . . = / Jerry and I are both keeping our eyes out for an open office position or another position with limited lifting. I would LOVE to stay on the same shift that I am currently on, working the same days as Jerry and home by 3ish. All I can say is thank goodness I only have to work three days. This time around I am worried about not being able to work up until delivery. Jerry and I are starting to look into our benefits to see what is available to us, in case I cannot make it until June.
Hopefully, this week I will get a belly picture up. My butt's been dragging lately, so you will have to bare with me! I promise to get with the program soon!
Work is an added stress lately. I'm still doing my normal duties, which is what I want, but I am slowing down. I think it's only a matter of weeks now before my secret is out at work. . . = / Jerry and I are both keeping our eyes out for an open office position or another position with limited lifting. I would LOVE to stay on the same shift that I am currently on, working the same days as Jerry and home by 3ish. All I can say is thank goodness I only have to work three days. This time around I am worried about not being able to work up until delivery. Jerry and I are starting to look into our benefits to see what is available to us, in case I cannot make it until June.
Hopefully, this week I will get a belly picture up. My butt's been dragging lately, so you will have to bare with me! I promise to get with the program soon!
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