Mixed Feelings

I got into the doctor yesterday and my blood pressure was still elevated. It's not in the dangerous range but not in the healthy range either. It's pretty much the same as it was in the hospital so that is good because it hasn't gotten any worse. Laying low has helped my BP and also my swelling which has significantly decreased. He also said he doesn't feel I have preeclampsia either. And he said it wouldn't be in the best interest of the baby or me to return to work after the holiday break. He felt continued limited activity would be most beneficial. They also did a non-stress test on the baby yesterday and she looks great! From now on, I'll visit the doctor twice a week for a NST and blood pressure readings. So, I have mixed feelings because I'm so thankful they don't have to take the baby early and she is showing no signs of distress. But, I'm bummed that I have to be off work and use my days when she's not here. Of course I am willing to do what is best for the both of us so this is well worth it. However, I'm still trying to wrap my head around it. I was planning on returning for a few weeks to get my classroom and students ready for my long-term sub. Fortunately, she has already shadowed me and subbed for me a few times so the kids are aware of who she is and she's had a chance to briefly get to know them. This is God's way of telling me I need to be flexible and I can't always control the situation. Welcome to parenthood! I continue to pray that baby can grow to be healthy and strong enough for birth.

Unexpected Christmas in Kansas City

In my previous post I had mentioned my blood pressure was a little high. Well, I went to my appointment Wednesday morning and my blood pressure was still high and the doctor figured out I am dilated to 2cm and 50% effaced. Since my blood pressure was high, she said it was protocol to admit me so they could monitor my BP for a while and do some blood work. Initially, it seemed that I would only have to stay for a few hours. My blood work was fairly good except for my liver enzyme levels. Those were somewhat elevated and my blood pressure hadn't changed. Because of the liver levels, the blood pressure, and the swelling, the doctor on call came in and told me I had a mild case of preeclampsia and that no matter what, they would have to induce me, it was just a matter of when. She guessed it would probably be a few days and then baby would be here. I held it together pretty well and then just before she left my room, I broke down. I was in complete shock and totally unprepared to have a baby this soon. She would be 5 weeks early! I asked the doctor if there was anything I could have done to prevent this and she said no. They're not sure why some women develop this disease. On top of all this, Steve was at home with the stomach flu and we have no family in town. I'm so grateful my friend Natalie was in the room when the doctor shared this news. The doctor made it seem like there was no question and this was a definite thing. The only way to cure preeclampsia is to deliver the baby. After a few hours, I became more comfortable with the idea of officially becoming a parent at any moment. They decided to keep me overnight so they could continue to monitor my Bp and do more blood work in the morning. They also wanted to do a 24 hr urine collection to see if I released any protein. I had several visitors that evening which was so thoughtful since Steve couldn't be with me. That helped to pass the time. Thanks Nat, Liz, April, Kate, and Brenda! After an "okay" night's sleep, they did lab work again. My levels were better than the day before. A different doctor was on call and he said he doesn't think I have preeclampsia because there was no protein in my urine from my initial doctor's visit. He also said I have labile BP because it fluctuates between normal and high. He said the 24 hr urine results would give us more information but at that point, he thought there wasn't anything major to worry about and he saw no reason to take the baby. I was relieved to hear that baby wouldn't need to come early but very confused about the different opinions from the doctors. Soon after that, Steve was able to come up to the hospital. My mom came shortly after him (she took an early flight out from Minnesota b/c we were all under the impression that baby would be here soon). We had to stay a few more hours so they could test my urine and take blood one last time. Again, my lab results were better and there was no sign of protein in my urine. I guess that's a huge factor in diagnosing someone with preeclampsia. There was a third doctor on-call yesterday afternoon and she said I could go home on limited activity. It's not bed rest but I can't do housework or strenuous activities. Basically, I have to lay-low at home. Before we left, the nurse said they'll monitor me more closely from now on. My next appointment is on the 30th so we'll see how my BP is then. One of the doctors made it seem like there is a chance I could return to work after the holiday break. That's something to be discussed on Wed. Right now, I still feel like I don't know what to think, and I wish there were more answers. I trust in God that he'll do whatever is best for baby. I pray that he gives her a few more weeks to grow so she's developed enough to be healthy at birth. Steve and I had to cancel our plans to travel to Iowa and Minnesota to spend Christmas with family. Thankfully, my mom is here to spend it with us. Steve and she have been so amazing. Steve has been cooking the meals, he did the laundry, and my mom cleaned most of the house (with a little help from Steve). It's difficult to sit back and watch them take over things I normally do (minus the cooking). But I am so blessed to be surrounded by such remarkable people! Love you! For now, baby and I are doing well and I pray we continue that way. Hope you all have a merry Christmas and Happy New year! :)

35 Weeks

Here are some bare belly shots at 35 weeks. This afternoon, our school nurse took my blood pressure because I wasn't feeling quite right and the numbers were a little high. My feet and hands were pretty swollen and constantly sweaty. I go to the doctor tomorrow morning so we'll see what they say. Hopefully the 13 day holiday break will give little girl and I some much needed rest. Maybe, just maybe my puffiness will decrease. I've never been through this before so I have no idea what to expect. I pray that nothing happens that will cause her to come early.

'Tis the Season for Swelling

Right around Thanksgiving, I began to notice that my feet were slowly expanding like a cookie in the oven. They have continued this way ever since. Only two pairs of fake Uggs are wide enough to hold these babies. I attempted to squeeze them into a pair of tennis shoes this morning and was unsuccessful. Guiltily, I sit as much as possible at work but I'm still unable to elevate my feet. I've mentioned the swelling at two different doctor's appointments and they aren't concerned. My blood pressure is good (for now) and there hasn't been any protein in the samples I've left. I'm hoping the swelling won't lead to anything serious. My pregnancy has been amazing otherwise and I'm so thankful for that. I'm just not sure how much more fluids my poor calves, ankles, and feet can take.

Couples Baby Shower

Our dear friends, Natalie, Scott, Jenny, Gerald, Katie, and Andrew threw us a couples baby shower yesterday. It was nothing less than amazing! We were showered with delicious food, hilarious games, and gifts. We appreciate all the time and effort they put in to it. Steve and I feel very spoiled and so grateful for wonderful friends. Our experiences and memories in Kansas City wouldn't be possible without them. Also, a big thanks to everyone who came!

The cake says, "Lil Bean." Too cute!

Who has the better looking belly?

Pregnancy and Nursery Update

I went to the doctor last Tuesday and everything is going really well. The doctor wasn't worried about my swollen ankles and feet because my blood pressure was good and so were my protein and sugar levels. I guess I'm just one of the lucky ones who's prone to swollen hands and feet. Baby's heart rate was 146 and her measurements on are track. I'm becoming very anxious to meet her although I want her to keep growing until she's ready. I can't believe Steve and I will officially be parents in 7 weeks!

Steve and I spent a good chunk of yesterday working on the nursery. I began by cleaning out the top rack of her closet to allow more room for her things that won't be used for a while. I also unpacked, cut tags off, and washed all the recent baby clothes we've received. Then, Steve was determined to unload and move the second dresser into the room all by himself. I was praying that he didn't hurt himself as I'm not much help with lifting. He got it into the room safely and without injury. Thank goodness! Then was the task of arranging the furniture. After rearranging three times, it's complete! We think it looks pretty good and now all the room needs is some wall decor. We're going to stay away from painted designs so we don't have to repaint the room in a few years. Now we have to decide what we'll hang on the walls to add to the room. If you have any ideas, please share! Here are some photos of what it looks like thus far. Enjoy!

And another one!

It's safe to say we've been spoiled with four baby showers thus far and another one was added to our count this past Wednesday! Steve's coworkers organized and hosted an amazing shower...I was completely blown away. Luckily, I was able to leave work early to be part of this special event. The shower consisted of:

1. An adorable diaper cake. 2. A delicious cake and punch.

3. A hilarious game. Steve was blind folded and had to taste eight jars of baby food and guess what they were. The entire game he thought I was blind folded as well and was tasting the food but little did he know, he was going it alone! There were several moments of gagging...it was pretty funny and he was a good sport about it.

4. Gifts. I couldn't believe how generous everyone was. One of the best gifts was our travel system! It feels comforting to know we have a car seat and stroller if anything were to happen early.

Thanks again to all Plaza staff members! Steve and I are so grateful for the time and effort you put into this. We appreciate you!

Minnesota Baby Shower

My mom hosted a baby shower the day after Thanksgiving. Even though it's not customary for the grandmother-to-be to organize and host the baby shower, she wanted to show off her beautiful new home she and my step-dad moved into at the beginning of November. It was wonderful seeing my dear family members and a few friends. Bean and I felt very special. Mom~we appreciate the time and effort you put into this special day. LOVE YOU!

Grandma is excited to meet Bean!

A Crib Made with Love

Soon after we found out we were expecting, Steve's dad offered to make the crib for the nursery. We gladly accepted his offer and after several months of hard work, the project was complete! We saw the finished product over Thanksgiving and were at a loss for words. Keith did an amazing job and this is a gift that will be cherished forever. Thank you so much!!! One day, we hope our grandchildren will sleep in it. Check out the detailed craftsmanship. He is one talented man!

KC Baby Shower

My dear friend Angela hosted a baby shower for Bean and me today. Everything was fabulous! We are so appreciative of the time and effort she put forth and everyone who made it. Here are a few pictures...enjoy! Thanks Ang!!!

How cute is this cake????

Where Oh Where Can Little Rose Be?

Can you spot Rose in Steve's pile of clothes?

Dirty clothes are definitely more comfortable than carpet alone. :) When she curls up like this we call her "shrimp." She's too cute! (Don't worry...the rest of our house isn't this messy.)

30 Weeks

Here is a pic of little Bean at 30 weeks. You can definitely tell she (and I) are growing. :) The last week and a half I've been EXTREMELY irritable/moody. The smallest, most insignificant thing can trigger my fury. I feel so guilty because I have everything to be thankful for and nothing to be upset about. I haven't had any patience at home or at work. I've been a bear to my students so they're probably wondering where their real teacher has gone and if she is coming back. I've read and heard this is normal in the third trimester. Hopefully my body will get used to the hormonal surge so I can be Jenny again. In the midst of all this, Steve has been wonderful and I'm positive he misses his happy wife. Send positive thoughts my way!

New Members

I can't believe I forgot to blog about this last week. Over the past eight weeks, Steve and I went through the New Member program at Good Shepherd United Methodist Church, which is right down the road from our house. We have been attending the church since we moved to Kansas City and decided it was time to make it official and take the next step in our faith journey. The group met every Sunday evening for an hour (sometimes two). We wrapped things up by volunteering at Hill Crest ministries. This organization helps less fortunate families get back on their feet by providing a place to stay for 90 days and teaching them how to manage their finances. Half of our group painted an entire two bedroom apartment and the other half, cleaned and reorganized the main office. We accomplished all this in 4 hours...wow! Then, last Sunday our new member group was presented to the congregation. Of the members, one adult and five children were baptized. The entire process was so amazing and we're both glad we decided to take that next step. It feels wonderful to be part of the Good Shepherd family. :)

Early "Nesting"

The past few weeks I've had bouts of nesting. I can't imagine what I'll be like in 2 1/2 months! Three weeks ago, I painted a second coat in the nursery, and washed all the clothes we have for Bean at this point. Two weeks ago, I washed both guest bedroom blinds in the tub and SCRUBBED until I was blue in the face! They were filthy. This past weekend, I DEEP cleaned the entire house. I even got down on my hands and knees to scrub the floor in our master bathroom. Steve was also recruited to help dust the ceiling fans I couldn't reach. I also washed all Bean's wash cloths, bath towels, sheets, changing pad covers, and burp cloths. Next weekend, I'm hoping to clean the windows (inside and out), mop the kitchen floor, and wash all of Bean's bedding. I'm certain many more things will be added to my "to do" list. :)

Trick or Treat!

Not one trick or treater came to our house this year. I was so disappointed! Luckily, we went to our friends house later on and their neighborhood was full of kids so we were still able to pass out candy. Check out our costumes. Steve picked them out!

Can you tell what Steve is? Don't worry, he put on black shorts before we headed over to Scott and Natalie's. :)

Birthday Brunch

We knew this week was busy with conferences and all...and our weekend is booked, so Steve and I decided to celebrate my birthday early. We had the Granite City Sunday brunch and it was delicious! This year, my longest conference day is on the 29th. Go figure! At least we get Friday off...wahoo!

Fall Fun

Last Saturday, Steve and I were invited to a pumpkin carving/bonfire party! I can't remember the last time I actually carved a pumpkin. I chose to mark mine with a scarecrow design. To my surprise, it actually looked pretty good. I think I may have even out-done Steve, the art teacher. :) He decided to carve the score of the ISU/Nebraska game into his pumpkin. I love fall activities like this and we don't get to partake very often because we're usually on the go traveling out of state.

Steve was so proud of his "bonfire" attire. He had on Carhart pants, and his grandpa's jean coat that's insulated with flannel. Perfect.

And There's More!

Steve and I elected to pay extra to have a 4D sonogram session with little Bean. She was pretty cooperative so that was fabulous. The sonogram technician gave us literally 50 pictures! At one point, Bean had both legs and arms up by her face. We're not sure where she gets her flexibility. :) It was so amazing to see her move around and grimace. It makes everything much more real. Enjoy these few pictures of our special girl. You can see more in person the next time I see you! The photo book is always in my purse. Look at her sweet little face.

Her hand is up by her face. Precious!

You can see her legs, elbow, and then her hand on top of her knee.

The technician said she's measuring at 26 weeks which is right on track. As of yesterday, she was 1 lb. 15 oz. The woman said she also has some LONG legs! :) AND...the umbilical cord isn't around her neck anymore. I was so relieved to hear that!

More Pics of Little Bean

We had another sonogram yesterday because the doctor wanted to follow up on a few things. Everything looked great and you can tell she's grown since our last sonogram 5 weeks ago. We were lucky enough to get some 4-D pictures from yesterday's appointment. You can actually see her face! Steve and I decided we'd like formal 3-D/4-D (whatever they do) pictures of her so we go back next Tuesday to get those done. Hopefully she cooperates so we can share more wonderful pictures of her! What a little miracle...I can't stop staring at the pictures. :)

You can see the umbilical cord is wrapped around the backside of her neck. Neither the technician or doctor were concerned.

40th Wedding Anniversary

My mother and father-in-law celebrated their 40th wedding anniversary this past June. We wanted to do something special for them and weren't able to do so until this past Sunday. We pulled off a surprise gathering at Steve's oldest brother's restaurant. We had them believing they were attending an immediate family birthday party for Maddie, Zach, and Brian. Neither Keith or Linda suspected anything and were stunned when they walked in the door to see their good friends, family members, and decorations galore! We celebrated with sandwiches from Hickory Park, homemade desserts, a trivia game, and a slideshow of Keith and Linda's journey together over the years. The party was a success!

Can you tell Linda is shocked?

A hug from good friends along with a few happy tears.

Maddie and Me

Baby Shower in Iowa

My mother-in-law's good friends: Sue, Linda, Leslie, and Laura hosted a baby shower for Steve, me, and Bean this past Saturday. How thoughtful of them!?!?! The shower was graciously held at Sue's house in Norwalk. A wonderful group of attendees were present including a very special friend of mine, KRYSTAL! We've known each other since the 2nd grade and I was so thrilled she could make it. She is studying to be a physician's assistant in Des Moines so the close proximity made it easy for her to come. Steve, Bean, and I were spoiled with generous, thoughtful gifts from everyone. Now we just have to get everything organized. Thank you, thank you to everyone who made this event so special for us! We appreciate and love you! Laura, Linda, Sue, Me, Leslie, and Linda (mother-in-law)

Laura is due three weeks after me and we're both having girls!

Krystal and Me!

First Baby Shower

The staff at Shoal Creek put on a baby shower for four women, including me! There was a yummy cake and we were each given a giftcard to Babies R Us. What a treat!

Me, Michelle, Kate, and Sarah

ISU Family Weekend

While I love living in KC, I do wish I was closer to my family. Six hours is a bit of a drive just for a weekend. Soooo...my mom and step-dad met Steve and I in Johnston, IA, where we stayed with my great aunt Jan, her husband Steve, and their dog Auggie. We had a wonderful time catching up and my mom was able to feel little Bean move! Mom, Ted, Steve, and I headed to Ames, Saturday night for the Army game. We love being back in the stadium, sitting in the stands. It brings back great memories! Fortunately, the Cyclones performed well and came out with a big W!

Ted, Mom, Me, and Steve. Do you see the random lady in the back? :)

Oh the Joys of Registering!

We're officially registered at Babies R Us! I had no idea it would take over three hours to get the job done. My dear friend Angela offered to go with me since Steve nor I had a clue what we needed, I don't have a sister who has gone through this before, and my mom lives 6 hours away. Angela had amazing advice that really helped me choose the essentials. She's the best!!! After three hours of roaming a little over half the store, we decided it was time to leave and nourish ourselves with some lunch. When I got home, I went online and edited and added a few things here and there. It seems like it'll be a work in progress but it feels good to have it mostly done. Things are starting to come together. Our next big task is to move all the furniture out of the nursery and get it baby ready. We also need to pick a wall color and get the darn thing painted. Hopefully within the next month, that'll be finished. :)

You Were Correct If...

...you voted GIRL!!! We found out the news Thursday, early evening. I have to admit, I was a little shocked because deep down, I thought it was a boy. I didn't realize this until the woman said, "it looks like a girl." That feeling was short lived and I couldn't stop thinking what a miracle she is as we watched her on the sonogram. She moved around quite a bit and looks just precious. She wasn't in the best position so the woman couldn't get a read on everything she had hoped to. SO...they want to do another sonogram at our next appointment in 4 weeks. They don't have to twist my arm! I'll gladly see our girl again. :) Here are a few pictures they gave us. Here is a shot of her private parts. You're looking at the bottom of her butt cheeks and legs. The arrow is pointing to her privates. :) The woman said when you see the three lines like that, it means "girl."Here is her little foot. It looks enormous because the woman zoomed in. But she may have big feet because Steve and I are both tall.

Profile shot. You can see her little face and belly. So cute!

Another profile shot.

In this pic, her arm and hand are up next to her face. She was quite the mover.

I'll post more pics after our next sonogram on October 13th. Stay tuned!!!

Visit to Iowa

Bright and early on Sunday, Steve and I headed to West Des Moines. He needed to use some of his dad's tools to put the finishing touches on the toy box he was making. We were also able to see Steve's brother Brian, his wife, Marcia and their three girls. Their youngest daughter Allison was born June 1st, and we haven't seen her since then. As you can see from the picture, she has grown quite a bit and is a beautiful little girl. We were also able to see Steve's sister and Holly, and visit our friend's Jason and Laura for a Labor Day bbq. It was a quick, fun trip. :)

Little Allison.

A few pictures of the adorable toy box! I'm so lucky to have such a creative, handy husband! He came up with this project idea and I fell in love with it. You can see the letters, H, B, S, and M. He chose these to represent the different last names of our family members. S for Schmidt (his mom's side) and Sheriff (his dad's side, and our last name), B for Broz (my mom's side), M for Maro (my mom and Ted), and H for Holter (my dad's side). How thoughtful. Everything was made from scratch except for the letters. We chose to stick with gender neutral colors so it can be used by our next child and will hopefully match the nursery color scheme. I haven't decided on a bedding set but I have it narrowed down to a few choices.