4 Years

Ned and I celebrate 4 years of marriage today.

Last year, I posted about our early days: how we met, became engaged, and had an appendectomy before our wedding.

We've crammed a lot into four years, as I highlighted on Facebook this morning.  In that relatively short amount of time, we've had 2 babies, 3 pets, almost 2 moves and 3 houses, and 8 weeks of bed rest.  Of course, those are just the some of the large milestones; there was and is an awful lot of life squeezed in between and all around.

We don't live a fairy tale and never strive to give the impression that we do.  In each of our years of marriage, there has been good and there has been could be better.  I would certainly say that this last year has been our most defining thus far.  We've been through a lot of stress and tribulation, but ultimately, those struggles have turned into blessings.  Ned has even said that all husbands should have a wife on bed rest.  Of course, we wish that on no one, but those weeks did challenge and help us to appreciate each other more, practice patience, and find humor in the trials.  As we start a new year of marriage, we are proud of ourselves and our relationship and know that we can get through just about anything {not asking the universe to test that, though}.

Tonight it's leftovers, bath and bedtimes, and probably some late-night wake-ups, and that's just fine with us.  We know that it doesn't have to be shiny, fancy, or a little better than everyone else to make it really good.

Week in Review ~ 3/24

We had another pretty good week adjusting to our new normal.  Sam started doing somewhat better at night, but just as his sister did, that made daytime sleep in his bed go out the window.  I'm trying to be much less stressed about it this time around, since stressing did no good with Avery, and she ended up being a good sleeper.  I think he's also definitely battling reflux, so I'm trying to keep him as happy as possible until we see the pediatrician.

On Sunday, I took Avery to church which she seemed to enjoy.  Hopefully my attention span will return one day, as I heard none of the video we're watching in our class.  After Avery's nap, we strolled around the block with Ned and I each pushing a child.  I'm holding off on the double stroller until we're in the house and have a place to store it, but I'm ready to test it out.

Sam and I went to have his pictures done Monday morning.  He was not the happiest at first, and there was a lot of offering the pacifier then pulling it out for a few quick shots.  He finally settled down after an early bottle and actually went to sleep.  Before he drifted off I wondered if I was the only mother to have both children wide awake during newborn portraits.  I think Avery was even more alert than Sam.  Chik-Fil-A was on the menu for lunch and then it was nap time for everyone.

Avery continued to have bathroom problems, so I called the pediatrician on Tuesday.  She said we could pick up the items from her house to get a specimen and wouldn't need to bring Avery in unless she was running fever.  Avery was not complaining at Jennifer's but was not peeing frequently and had some accidents.  She didn't seem to feel the best Tuesday night but she wasn't running any fever.

She still seemed slow Wednesday morning, but she had no fever and said she wanted to go to Jen-Jen's.  Jennifer called just before lunch and said she was running fever.  Our pediatrician was off, but I got an afternoon appointment with the other one in the practice.  I picked Avery up and took her to my parents' to nap before the appointment.  Luckily, I was able to get a specimen at their house, because I doubted she would go in the doctor's office and knew that would result in a catheter.  We had to wait a long time for the doctor, but at that point the nurse had already said she did have a UTI.  It was late when we left, and we still had to take her specimen to the hospital lab to do a culture.  Dropping off lab work involves going through admitting at the hospital, which I feel like I'm a pro at these days.  I was exhausted but Avery was so good.  We picked up dinner on the way home and her prescription.  Mimi was home with Sam, because Ned had gone with other officers in the fire department to see their new fire truck.  After that crazy afternoon, it was my first night getting Avery to bed with Sam.  I still haven't figured out how to work that exactly, but that night I just took Sam in the room in his bouncer since he was quiet.  It's all about making a new normal, which for someone who thrives on routine can be challenging!

In the midst of all that, Sammy the dog had developed stress-induced colitis, and needed diapers worse than Sam the baby.  Tuesday was really bad for him, so he was off to the vet on Wednesday.  He too returned home much better with medicine and special food.  I still think it would be much less stressful {for everyone} if he lived with my in-laws.

I kept Avery at home Thursday but she was back to her old self.  We managed our first day together fairly well, although Sam wasn't napping in his bed much.  We were happy to see Ned return and even happier to learn that he did not have drill that night.  We took a trip to the house to peek in the windows at the floors before bed.

Sam did not have the best night and then did not have a great day Friday.  I finally raised his bed some more and did get an afternoon nap in his bed after we picked Avery up.  All the kids at Jen-Jen's wanted to see him, but I declined due to germs and the fact that he was sleeping quietly in the car.  We ordered pizza for dinner and enjoyed that together.

Saturday morning we enjoyed some time together, then Kristin and Emerson came to meet baby Sam.  I left just before lunch to run and errand and then had a hair appointment.  I was way overdue since my last scheduled appointment was Valentine's Day and I couldn't go.  I went to Lowe's again for lights and then picked up fish from Farm Fresh for dinner.

I've gotten so slack on my pictures, but I've vowed to do better so that Sam won't feel like such a second child.

A happy birthday picture for Poppa Saturday morning.

Construction ~ Week 40

A lot has happened in the last 3 weeks, and with each visit, things look more like a house instead of a construction zone.

The electrician has been working getting all the lights hung and installed, while also wiring plugs and switches.  I had to order all my lights online without seeing anything (no easy feat), and I've only had to make a few changes as I've been able to see them.

The painters have been working away as well.  The upstairs is finished, and the downstairs needs a final coat on everything now that the floors are done.  The floors were sanded and stained this week, and I cringe with each footprint I find on them.  The floors were quite a challenge as I did not consider that different types of wood take stain differently.  I'm happy with how they finally turned out, but if you're considering building and have a particular look in mind, mention it at contract time.

The last bit of work was done on the cabinets and the hardware was installed.  Hardware was something else I had to order online.  I ordered a few that I liked the look of and luckily found something I loved on my first try.  And yes, somebody needs to dust.

The plumbers installed most of our faucets this week.  Our tile backsplash was completed while I was in the hospital 2 weeks ago.

Our storm door was installed, and it's one of my favorite things.  I love an open front door.

My vanity finally arrived after it first came in the wrong size.  Vanity tops have been installed along with faucets.  We're just waiting on the knobs to be installed.

More paint, lights, and floor.

Our sweet girl finally has her pink room.

Just need the globes installed on this one.  Ned is curious as to how he'll change bulbs.

The mantle is almost complete and just needs paint on the sides.

Other news that wasn't as picture worthy:

-gas lines were run to the house

-back step railings were installed

-garage doors were installed

-security completed installation

We missed our closing date of the 21st, but we're hoping to have our certificate of occupancy by Friday.  That will more than likely put us moving Easter weekend, but we should at least have the week in between to start moving things and setting up what we're not using in this house.  We're excited and ready!

Week in Review ~ 3/17

We had a pretty good first week as a family of four.  It was especially nice to be feeling good and up among the living again.

After Sam's tough first night at home, Saturday night was better.  We were still tired Sunday morning, so Ned decided that he and Avery would stay home from church.  My parents came before lunch for a quick visit and to bring some food.  I was not feeling the best but finally got some relief with my first Advil in a long time.  After Avery's nap, she and Ned went to get some of the ceiling fans we needed for the house.  Ned said she was a big help in the store.

Ned took Avery to Jennifer's Monday morning, which we'll continue through the move and then part-time after that.  My mom took the day off and came mid-morning to visit and help where she could.  I'm horrible at getting people to do things around the house for me and turning over baby care.  She did help with laundry and also stayed with Sam for me to run errands for the first time in forever.  It felt so good to drive and be out and get done what I needed to on my own.

We didn't get as much sleep overnight, but Sam and I were out of the house early for his doctor's appointment.  I was proud that we left on time and doubt it will happen when I'm getting two out the door.  I had new paperwork to fill out at the pediatrician's, and of course Sam was hungry and let everyone know.  I gave him part of a bottle to calm him down, then he was happy as could be waiting for and then talking to the doctor.  He was up to 7 pounds 7 ounces, which is an ounce more than his birth weight.  I was also relieved to hear that his circumcision was looking good, because caring for that was zero fun.  We discussed the signs of reflux that we're seeing already, but it's too soon to know if he'll need any treatment.  She assured me that he's getting enough to eat even though at times he appears to be starving.  On the way home, I stopped to pick up food for dinner and remember why I love having a child that can walk.  I hate carrying the car seat!  I was pooped when we got home and laid down on the couch only to be woken up by the preacher.  This is the 3rd time she's shown up unannounced and I don't particularly care for it.  Sam took a good nap in his bed but was fussy while we ate dinner.  So far it doesn't seem to bother Avery when he's crying, so we'll see if that lasts.

Wednesday was spent at home doing odds and ends and resting.  Ned got off at noon, and when it was time to get Avery, I decided I would go.  The day before, she thought I was coming for some reason and was disappointed when Daddy showed up.  She was so excited to see me drive up, and I still tear up thinking about it.  She did so good through bed rest and me being in the hospital, but it's obvious she missed our regular routines.  We had a great time on the ride home, she enjoyed the lemonade I brought her, and then stopped at Peebles to pick up some short sleeve shirts for her since she was a sweaty mess.  Warm weather has come too early, and with a new baby and the house, it looks like more Internet shopping is in order.  We also got a few more newborn items for Sam since his legs were getting all tangled up.

On Thursday I had an appointment to have my blood pressure checked and see the doctor.  I was pretty nervous because I know that sometimes they'll put women back in the hospital and my mind just assumes that's what's going to happen.  It was ok though, not great but the doctor was happy.  I'm staying on the medicine and don't have to go back until my 6-week check.  I went to Lowe's when I was done to get more lights for the house, then I stopped to get Avery.  The doctor had said I could pick her up as long as I wasn't carrying her long distances while I recovered, and it was so great to have her arms around my neck.  That meant I could also put her to bed at night without Ned having to lift her into the crib.  She and I have both missed that as well, and it gives us a chance to listen to the book I recorded for her to have while I was in the hospital.  Sadly, it brought big tears while I wasn't at home but she loves it with me.

Thursday night was tough.  Sam would not settle down for any amount of time until 3:30 or 4 a.m.  Ned was not feeling well so I did it on my own.  I was pretty pooped Friday but couldn't take a nap for some reason.  Avery spent the night with my parents', so Ned picked up Applebee's for us.  I'm not sure what else we did, but we have to start going to bed earlier.  It's just tough to know if Sam will be in agreement with that.

We had a really good night Friday night and were able to get a little extra sleep Saturday morning.  Ned met someone who was buying his lawn mower and then brought us breakfast.  I made a grocery list and made my first Walmart trip since bed rest.  Walmart didn't change a bit.  Sam took a nice, long nap in his bed during the afternoon, so I was able to get some pictures loaded on the computer.  When he woke up, we went to see what had been done at the house.  We were approaching Sam's next feeding, and he let us know as we were leaving the house to go to my parents'.  We finally stopped about halfway for him to eat a little.  Avery was happy to see us but tired after a shorter nap.  She was also showing some signs of pain when she used the bathroom and had two accidents.  We still enjoyed the fish my dad fried and a Pinterest dessert.  Sam cried and fussed all the way home.  Avery just kind of watched him like she wished he would hush, then she rested her head on her seat.  He stopped crying and went to sleep in the seat as soon as we took it out of the car.  Avery went right to bed since she was tired and it was past her bedtime.

Sam's First Days

After Sam's crazy arrival, a little extra sleep, coffee for Ned, and Pepsi for me were needed.  The pediatrician standing in for ours came in and said Sam looked great.  He told us he had little blisters on his hands/wrists from sucking in the womb, but that some had already healed.  Another baby with hands always in his or her face!  I was unfortunately put on magnesium after delivery, so I had to stay in bed, but we were still ready to welcome our families.  My mom brought Avery and Ned's parents came.  My dad had to be at work, so he came that afternoon.  Ned went out and brought Avery in first.  We had Sam in the bassinet so that I could pay attention to just Avery.  She was ready to see him though and give him his Duckie like her Giraffi.  Avery was very excited to see "Baby Sammy" as she calls him.  She was even more excited that he had brought her a birthday cake set to celebrate his happy birthday.  Sam picked a great toy as it entertained her each time she came for a visit.

The grandparents came in and met Sam as well.

While we had extra hands, Avery got to hold Sam.

After a visit everyone left and we had a quiet afternoon.  My mom came back for awhile, and Sam had to spend a little time in the nursery getting warmed back up.  They took me off the magnesium but wanted me to stay in bed because my blood pressure was still up.  My mom brought Avery back that afternoon and met my dad at the hospital.  Avery was most excited to be riding in the alligator {elevator}.  To not disrupt my parents even more, Ned took Avery home for the night.  Sam is bottle-fed but I planned to have him brought to me for each feeding during the night.  I still couldn't get up but I knew the nurses would be able to help.  I forgot the full moon, though, and soon the Women's Suite was hopping.  I was moved to a room further down the hall because so many women were coming in.  Sam stayed with me more because the nursery nurse was having to help with the women in labor.  At one point in the middle of the night he had to stay with me while she went to a c-section.  Luckily he did fine and nurses were able to help me out.  Things were much quieter in the morning so some of those women must have had false alarms.

We were happy to see Daddy return in the morning. 

I was allowed to get up, but I made sure to take it easy after 8 weeks of rest.  It was so nice to put on clothes!

We had another quiet day together, and then we had our special dinner from the hospital that night.  We had asked for Ned's to be boxed, thinking he would be taking Avery home, but my mom brought her dinner so we all ate together.

It was our first taste of dinner as a family of four, even though Lolli was there holding Sam.  Within minutes Avery's lemonade was all over the floor and there was yogurt on Ned's nose.  Our fried shrimp dinner was delicious and the hospital staff took so much pride in serving us.  My mom left as our pediatrician came in.  We hadn't seen her since she had been off the day before, so we got to talk about Sam.  It was only slightly crazy with Avery in the room.  Sam was still checking out great, and we discussed his spit-up since his formula had been changed to sensitive.  The change helped but we were already watching signs of reflux.  After that visit, Ned took Avery home.  Sam stayed with me some during the night, but wouldn't settle down at one point so off to the nursery he went.  Sleep is limited in the hospital anyway, so I accept all the help I can get.

My doctor was in early Friday morning to tell me I could go home, which was great news.  We still had to wait for Sam's blood work to return to check his bilirubin levels.  They had been rising, but not as fast as Avery's had.  The pediatrician came to get Sam for his circumcision and we waited to hear that he was done.  She came back to let us know that he had done well, and she also said his numbers were good so we could go home.

It was still lunchtime before everything was ready for us to leave.  Sam had his hospital pictures done and then had a quick bottle before we hit the road.

It felt great to be out of the hospital after four nights!  Once we got home and got settled, Ned went and got Avery.  She was excited to see me home and moving around.  Sam did not have a great first night at home and was not interested in sleeping in his pack-n-play.  Since he's in our room, no one got much rest.  Around 3:30 we finally put him in his bouncer and he slept for several hours.

Saturday morning with Avery came early.  We enjoyed some time at home, and Avery spent some time at Mimi's house while Ned ran errands.  I don't really remember what else we did but we were happy to be home together.

Sam's Arrival

This post should probably be called Things Change...Again!  I planned to go in for my induction Tuesday, March 6, but my doctor called Monday morning and told me there was an opening in the Women's Suite if I wanted to come in and start that night.  We scrambled and rearranged...again, but I was glad to be getting started at night.  I was just sure that would speed things along even more.  My mom picked Avery up, Ned and I had dinner, he got me settled, then he took Avery home.  The doctor started the Cervidil at 7 p.m.  They basically left me alone, but I just couldn't sleep.  My blood pressure was up, and I think I was just anxious.  Around 2 a.m. they let me have an Ambien, and I slept until about 6.

At 7 a.m. I was only 1 centimeter dilated.  I ate breakfast, Ned arrived, and they started Pitocin at 8:30.  It was increased every 30 minutes while Ned and I just hung out.  By 11 a.m. I was having contractions every 3 minutes or so, and they were getting longer.  By 1:15 p.m. they were every 2 minutes and stronger.  The doctor came and checked and I was 2 cm.  I was kind of disappointed, but she said she would be back shortly to break my water and that would really get things going.

For some reason, the nurse stopped increasing the Pitocin, and things started slowing down.  When the doctor came to break my water, my contractions weren't close enough together to do it.  They never really got back into a good pattern, so at 5:30 they stopped the Pitocin so I could eat dinner.  The doctor said she would use Cytotec through the night at 3-hour increments and that it should have good results.  Ned stayed since we didn't know what would happen, and the Cytotec was started at 9 p.m.

Things started to get interesting at that point.  Even though Ned was there and nothing was wrong, I was anxious.  I was worried about how long things would take, which would increase my BP, which would make me worry more.  I finally asked for another Ambian, and they gave it to me.  When the doctor returned at midnight on the 7th, I was 3 cm.  At some point after that, I told the nurse I was starting to feel pain and asked when I could get my epidural.  She said the doctor would want to wait awhile longer, but I could have the IV medicine they had offered all day.  I've heard how out of it that makes you, but I felt like at night it wouldn't matter.  So that was started and got all mixed with the Ambian!

I don't think we made it to the 3 a.m. dose.  I just remember waking up at some point in excruciating pain, especially in my back.  I don't know how the nurse ended up in there, but she checked me and said the baby was right there.  She had to yell for the nursery nurse so the room could be prepped for labor, and the doctor had to be called.  With each contraction, I felt more and more pressure and pain.  Between the pain and the effects of the medicine, I felt kind of out of control, almost like I couldn't wake up good, which I hate.  I DO remember them informing me that there was no hope for an epidural.  I don't remember everything, but I remember asking for somebody to help me.

The urge to push increased dramatically, and it didn't matter how many times the two nurses told me not to push, I pushed.  I knew the doctor wasn't there, but that didn't matter to my body.  Finally she arrived and broke my water, which she said was the only thing  that kept Sam from being delivered without her.  I pushed once to get his head out, stopped because the cord was wrapped twice around his neck, and with one more little push he was out.  Ned didn't get to cut the cord since it had been around his neck, since he had been born so quickly, and because the pain medicine can make the babies sleepy.  They usually won't give it to someone too dilated because of this, but they had no way of knowing I would go so quickly.  Sam checked out great though.  We got to snuggle with him and I called my mom.  Sam went off to the nursery after that, and Ned and I got a little rest.  Once the sun was up, we were ready to see our sweet baby again and introduce him to our families.

I'll do a separate post with pictures and details of our hospital stay.  Hopefully that one won't take another week to get done.

Introducing....

...Sam! I'm attempting a post from my phone with Instagram photos, so ignore any layout issues. These are all pictures from yesterday. Enjoy!

He's Here!

Samuel Vincent Lankford (Sam) arrived this morning at 3:30 a.m. after a very slow then very fast induction! He weighed 7 lbs 6 oz and was 21 inches long. We are both doing well, Ned continues to be wonderful, and Avery seems to think her new brother is a keeper so far! Sam arrived with quite a fanfare that included no epidural and almost no doctor! I'll post the whole story soon. We are blessed and in love!

Construction ~ Week 37

Here are the highlights of the week.

Countertops

Most of the missing pieces to the cabinets were installed

Hardwood floors need to be sanded and stained.  We finally found a stain that was pretty close to what I wanted, only to find out that it had been discontinued.  Luckily Ned was able to find it easily while I was in the doctor Tuesday.

The painters continued painting trim, doors, and closets.  I'm so ready to see color, but this needs to be done as well.