My "Xtra" Perfect World

How Different We are in just 1 Year

2012-03-13T21:01:00.000-04:00

On Feb 16, 2011 we had 2 little embryos transferred! Do you remember this pic I posted.....
"SIMPLY AMAZING"

http://christieccarter.blogspot.com/2011/02/simply-amazing.html

Little did we know what GOD had already planned!

CADE & CASE

At 21 weeks I was admitted into the hospital. I was having pre-term labor and didn't know it. I was dilated to 3 cm and scared to death that I would never see my boys faces. I was there until the day they were born. We made it to 32 weeks. I was going to delete the pics below, but for some odd reason I felt the need to keep them. Maybe to show my boys what I went through! Ha!

I was in the hospital for 73 days and had alot of these days!

I had alot of good days too. I am so thankful for all my doctors, nurses, family and friends that thought of me, came by to see me and sent me yummy and beautiful things to encourage me and kept me positive. It was all of you and of course my Faith in God that helped me achieve what I have now!

Colt @ 18mths!

Colt is into everything. He loves being in the kitchen with his mama, getting into all the drawers and cabinets. He is saying a few words, mama, dada, bite-bite, bye bye and sometimes when you ask him "what kind of noise does a cow make?" He will say moooooo! or at least make his lips pucker that looks like mooooo! When you ask him to give his brothers love. He will say "awwwww". I'm so proud of him. He also will try to do the hand motions when you sing "itsy bitsy spider".

It took us three years to achieve Colt!
The last 3 years was a roller coaster of emotions. UP's and Downs, lots of tears shed and I felt heartache that I never experienced.......

I would do it all over again to have these 3 precious boys!

He loves bouncing on his pony his Aunt T got him for Christmas

More to come soon! Living and Loving the Best we know how! :)

My 3 C's: COLT, CADE, & CASE

2011-12-30T15:32:00.004-05:00

Picture done by Rachael Miller Photograpy

As you can imagine, things are pretty busy at "the Carter household". I am now back to work, trying to get caught up with that and manage a house, plus take care of my 3 C's, Colt, Cade and Case! I wouldn't want it any other way! It's so funny, when I think about my previous life! I actually thought I was busy then! Ha! We are nonstop! It's a blur most days, I'm trying to take pics, movies and all that to capture my little growing boys, but I will tell you, it's tough. I just wanted to give all and update and let you know we are all doing great! I'm actually starting to feel like me again, and ready to get back to the working world. My little boys are growing so much and they are starting to loose all of that precious hair, smile and goo! Colt is doing excellent! He is the best big brother! He gives them love and so far hasn't clawed their eyes out! He is pulling up onto everything and could walk if he wanted, but doesn't really think he has to. He jabbers up a storm! Even though, things are crazy and sometimes I feel overwhelmed with everything, we are enjoying every single minute.
I promise to post pics and movies soon.
Our 1st THANKSGIVING WITH ALL OF OUR BOYS

Happy 2nd Thanksgiving Colt!

U were so worth all that bedrest CASE & CADE! SO MUCH TO BE THANKFUL FOR THIS THANKSGIVING

Trying to get all the boys in a picture smiling is not going to happen for awhile!

Happy 1st THANKSGIVING 2011

Hope all had a Very Merry Christmas and a HAPPY NEW YEAR 2012!

Here are some of our Christmas pics taken by Tracy Alvarez DeAtley
The boys outfits was done by MOMMA! MOMMA! CREATIONS (look her up on FB she is quick and does excellent work)

The Carter's Christmas 2011

Our 3 C's Cade Case & Colt

Cade & Case

One of my fav's Colt Matthew

Colt Matthew 2011

Our little Case started rolling over the day after Thanksgiving

Giving Brother Case a kiss

Wild Hair Case! It's gotten so much lighter and thinner

CADE Followed little brother the previous day! He rolled over the 2nd day after Thanksgiving!

CADE & CASE 1st CHRISTMAS

SO EXCITED THIS YEAR------LOVED THE PAPER AND BOXES

FISH FACE

MERRY CHRISTMAS COLT!

His little pony his AUNT T Got him!

Feeding CADE

Colt is like his mama---Loves the GREEN PAPER $$$$

CADE and PAPAW

So excited this year

Mamaw & Papaw with 3 GRANDSONS

Merry 1st Christmas CADE & CASE

Licking the beaters like his Mamaw taught him!

Playing with Carter and Great Granny Carter

Colt opening his first chair his Mamaw & Pappel Carter got him

Where's cousin Carter? Colt and Carter playing in the large box

So funny! Telling and pointing to Carter!

Loving the box

Colt's 1st chair of his own

ooops! a little spit up

HAPPY NEW YEAR EVERYONE!

"GRATEFUL" GOD IS GREAT

2011-11-04T05:23:00.001-04:00

Case Michael & Stephen Cade 3lbs 11oz and 3lbs 14 oz
Case & Cade Welcome to this World!

After 73 days in the hospital on complete bed rest we delivered our twins Sept. 9 (32 weeks gestation) by c-section @ 12:53 &12:54. We stayed in the NICU a little less than 3 weeks, the twins came home Oct. 1st. We are all healthy and adjusting. I do apologize for not updating my blog sooner, but shortly after my"Shaken"post, I was placed back on "mag" literally until the day I delivered the twins. It was a long emotional & painful physical experience, but with a Happy Ending and I promise I will share soon. Even though, it was an experience I wouldn't wish on anyone, I developed life long relationships with nurses and doctors. Relationships I will cherish for the rest of my life. So many prayers, and so many of my friends, people I haven't seen in years, came by to visit, sent food, sent gifts and cards. I was humbled and amazed at all the thoughtfulness and kindness I was given by all. Words can not describe how much all of this meant to me.
This entire experience has changed me a little. I mean, I have always valued life, but I value life in so many different ways now. I realize how quick everything you know can change in a blink of an eye. I have always thought God sends certain people to you in a time of need. All my family, friends, nurses and doctors were those people God sent to help me. It was all of you that motivated me to stay positive and look what we achieved!
I also realized the power of LOVE! It was also the LOVE that I have for my children that kept me from not losing my mind. The magnesium sulfate was the only med that kept me from not going into labor, I knew staying on it was the only way I was going to get them here as healthy as possible. I will later describe the bittersweet effect this drug has on a person. You do whatever you have to for the sake of your children and that's what I did!
I have so much to be thankful and grateful for! My little 15 month old and my 2 lil 8 weekers!! Today was my due date, Nov. 4! Ha!
Things are very, very busy, very, very crazy and at times we all cry at once (including mama), but we are living a Good life!

As I laid in the hospital this was the "time frame" I dreamed about! The pregnancy journey being over, my twins being healthy and being with Colt! Being his Mama again!

Colt took this pic of himself! He loves playing with his mamaw's phone and we didn't realize it until later.

Colt @ Pumpkin Patch 2011

Cade 5 weeks

Cade & Case 5weeks--Already wearing Big Brother's size Newborn clothes--No more Preemie!

Cade 6 weeks

Case 6 weeks (Aunt T fixed his hair)

My family is now complete! Living Xtra, Xtra, Xtra Perfect!

"SHAKEN"

2011-07-25T19:13:00.003-04:00

All smiles on Mama when she sees her little boy!

Well, we were back from vacation and I was looking forward to a long 4th of July weekend! Not counting the BiG Birthday I had planned for Colt on July 9th.   The 4th of July has always been a special holiday for Matt and I.   We always go to the lake, normally stay on the boat and just have fun with friends.   One of my favorite things to do is watching the fireworks burst into the sky and fizzle into the water from the top of our friends houseboat. I did it last year while pregnant with Colt and every "boom" sound, he would move about inside my belly (like he knew what was going on). He wasn't due until July 28th, so I think this is what made him decide to come on July 7th. I think he wanted to get in on the action! Ha! As I laid on top of our friends houseboat in a lounger, I dreamed of how this 4th of July would be. I have this almost 1-year-old beautiful baby boy run around on top of the houseboat with me, watching the fireworks and hearing them fizzle downward until they meet water. I was so anxious!
On Wednesday, June 29th, I decided to call my doctor to see if she would see me.   I had back pain the previous night and a little during vacation. I wanted to make sure all was okay.   I had done a lot of walking on vacation and had a gut feeling that I shouldn't wait until July 5th, which was my next ultrasound appointment.   I wore heels the previous day, so I kept thinking to myself that was all it was. I needed to put up the heels and go with flats. It was time!
So, I called and they worked me in. I just love Lexington OB, I see Dr. Tracey Slone, who I highly recommend to everyone that is going to have a baby. She is awesome and works closely with Dr. Barton (The Prenatal Specialist) who recommended her to me.
I worked close that day and my appointment was at 3:00 (I think), it was towards the end of the day. When I got there I didn't wait long in the waiting room, they took me straight back to the ultrasound room. I could tell by the ultrasound technicians expression things were not right. I asked her if everything was okay with the babies?   She said, "your babies are excellent, it's your cervix lining that is concerning." I had told her I had just seen Dr. Barton on June 6 and my cervix was 4.3 cm--better than average.   Average is between 2-4 cm. For those of you wondering why this is so important, apparently the cervix lining is what helps hold the baby or babies inside. You want this wall (or lining) thick until closer to full term. Within just 26 days I went from having a better than average thickness to .8cm, which is almost gone! Remind you, I was only 21.5 weeks! A long way still to go!
I knew this wasn't good. I saw the doctor (my doctor was doing a c-section) and he immediately admitted me to Central Baptist, which is a wheel chair ride over.
The bad thing was my phone was completely dead! I was crying because I overheard them say I was going to labor/delivery. I thought I was going to lose my boys. The kind NP, Denise wheeled me over and let me use her phone to call my husband. I also, called my sister before my phone had died and told her I needed her to help Matt with Colt. I didn't know what to expect.
I couldn't stop the tears from falling, My heart was beating out of my chest and every bad, scary thought entered my mind. That's when your feel your world "SHAKEN". It's the same feeling I had when I was told of the possibility of Colt's diagnosis. My heart beating so loud, you feel everyone can hear. Having to make myself swallow because my throat is so tight you feel like you can't breath. You world is rocked and you are left "SHAKEN" in fear of whats to come. All is out of your control, and all you can do is pray to God for everything to settle and be alright.
They placed me in a room, hooked me to IV's and started a medicine called magnesium sulfate "mag". I've heard of this from friends, never would I had dreamt it would be so bad. It's amazing how your life is so on schedule and within a blink, you are left shaken--simply left in fear of the unknown.
This medicine stops any contractions and doctors are able to adjust it if need be. As soon as they started the iv, I felt the medicine burn through my veins and the nurses were putting cold (dipped in ice) washcloths all over my face and neck. My face felt as if my skin was melting off. It was terrible! I mean, the worse I have ever felt. Apparently, I was given the maximum dose of this.   Matt had arrived, and now I was puking my guts out.   I was on this drug for 2 days, I puked for 2 days. Even ice chips made me puke. My lips, inside my mouth and down my throat was so dry. Ice chips helped me continue to talk, which was hard for me to do. I can remember just circling ice on my lips to help me to talk.
The doctors had discussed a cerclage. This is when they place a stitch to keep the cervix from further thining, but with twins, there is more of a risk of breaking my water. Plus, we now know, I basically have pre-term labor and a cerclage really would be more risky than benefit. So it was ruled out!
I finally became stable and little to no contractions, the bad thing is, I don't feel them. I mean at all! So, I don't know if I am having them or not to tell the nurses. I am wearing what they call a toco and this monitors contractions, so if they start, they can be stopped.
I was moved from labor/delivery to the antepartum unit.   I was doing good, I was on oral meds and stable. My ultrasound on June 6th was such great news. My cervix had thicken! Nothing to be able to go home on, but at least I wasn't going backwards. I went from .8cm to 1.2cm. All was well.
Needless to say I had to cancel Colt's birthday party. I had planned to have a bash! Pony rides, petting zoo, games and a cookout for family and friends.  I know, a little over the top, but we have so much to celebrate. He is healthy and we survived as new parents! I wanted to celebrate all the joys within the past year. I had gotten his invitations they day I was admitted. I didn't know this, but Matt told me he saw them once he got home.   He didn't want to bring it up, because he new how hard I had planned and looked forward to it. I will post them later to show how cute they are!!!

I have weekly ultrasounds to check cervical change. On June 13th, we didn't hear good news. Again, SHAKEN!!!   My cervix had thinned even more--now .2cm and I had not had any contractions. So, some people have contractions and then start dilating, I am one of those people who dilates, then have contractions.   Frustrating!!!   So, since I was only 23 weeks and 5 days, they needed to give the babies steroids.  A side effect of steroids is "contractions".    I was moved to labor/delivery and I had to go back on "mag".   This time I warned the nurses how much I throw-up and they gave me zofran prior. We had our ice dipped washcloths ready. My sis-n-law came on her lunch break to take care of me, until my mother-in- law got here. Mom and Trenda had just went home that Sunday and so they were coming back the following Friday.
So again, felt the medicine burn in my veins, didn't throw-up right away. I thought I was handling things a lot better, but the steroids "did" make me contract so I had to be given a bolus dose in addition. That's when I started puking and from then on I didn't stop. Matt came and stayed with me the first night and I think he said I had puked over 37 times.  I was now throwing up blood. All I know I was so non-functional I couldn't even open my eyes. I couldn't move on my own. My sis n law had to brush my teeth cause my muscles were so weak I couldn't left my arms. She was a great nurse! She brushed my teeth like she does her boys, she said. I was so thankful she was there!   This "mag" is like a huge muscle relaxer too.  That's why it works so well. It calms the uterus which is a smooth muscle.  It does effect speech, eye lids and any other muscle you can think of . Nurses had to pick me up to turn me from side to side. Have you ever had a dream where you wanted to run or move, but couldn't? That's exactly how you feel. Your mind is still thinking, but physically you can't move or do anything. It was BAAD!
I have to give my sis and husband props too! My sis came on Thursday and has stayed with me everyday. How lucky I am to have her. I know she has to be exhausted, she has been doing everything for me. I hate being so dependent, but she is so caring and kind, she never complains. Trenda and my mom has helped out so much with Colt too. Mom comes down every weekend to help Matt with Colt, so he can cut hay and keep up the farm. We are so lucky to have them.   Matt's mom and dad help us out taking Colt to daycare and picking him up when Matt has to work late. It has been such an adjustment, but everyone is helping out and I'm sure they are loving Colt's company. He is such an easy baby to watch and keep. I don't think I could ever thank everyone enough for all they are doing. We so appreciate all the help and are so blessed to have them all. It's a good feeling knowing little Colt is in good hands. Matt is just amazing with him too.
So that brings you up to my current state! I'm stable! I'm on oral meds and they left me on labor/delivery until I make it to 28 weeks so they can monitor me a little closer. At 28 weeks, my babies will have to have steroids again. I haven't been told the actual game plan yet, but as aggressive as Dr. Slone and Barton are, I'm assuming I will have to go on "mag" again. So please pray. Its rough and exhausting! Not to mention the mental toll of not seeing your baby, husband, home, or work in almost 4 weeks. For the sake of these babies, and being off work for so long, I pray I'm here for 10 more weeks.  I know we are doing the best thing for our twins!  Like any mother, you do what is best for your children. I would love to leave here with both boys, due to not having as much time off work after delivery.   I would of never of dreamed that I would be on bed rest for so long. I had prepared myself for the month of Sept. Taking only 4 weeks of Short term Disability and allowing myself 10weeks off with the twins after they arrive. Definitely not my "xtra" perfect plan!
I know there is a reason for all of this, and I feel positive God is watching over all my boys. I feel confident that I will make it to 28 weeks, and then I will ask God for a little more time.   These twins have came so far, I just know all will be okay. Matt, has really impressed me with all the things he has done.  Colt literally eats him up.   Mama is just a little jealous. I'm glad Colt will not remember any of this. I realize this is harder on me than him, and I wouldn't want it any other way.   I know when I get home with the twins, I will need Matt helping me all I can with Colt. There is a reason and I am staying positive.

I will be here 4 weeks on Wednesday, July 27th! In one way it has went by so fast, but another I feel like I should be 28 weeks along. I have had excellent care here at Central Baptist. I am building relationships with Doctors and nurses who are taking such Outstanding care of me.  I haven't had 1 BAD nurse yet, they all are extremely caring, they come by to check on me, even if they are not my nurse that day! It is Simply Amazing how wonderful they are!!! I'm so glad to be here. I feel like I am in the Best of Hands!   Such outstanding people. Blessed to have so many come into my life at a time that is so needed.

I'm eating good here too!  Doctors and Nurses showering me with gifts! Just eating for the TWINS, helping them get bigger! ha!

Dr Barton brought me corn from his farm (ambrosia corn) YUM!

Orea Balls--Delish!!! Nurse Erin made them for me! BEST I've ever had!!!

Please continue to Pray for us!

I will post July 4th pics and Colt's birthday in a separte post! Just wanted to update you on what has been going on with me.
Taking it Day by Day!

DESTIN 2011

2011-07-24T01:20:00.005-04:00

Destin 2011 Colt's 1st vaca

So, my sis n law and I started planning our family vacation around the 1st of April, so we had to find something fast for the month of June. Not really our month we like to go, just because of the heat, but we wanted to plan early due to my pregnancy. She actually found the perfect house for us, I will share the link for those interested.   Matt and I have been looking so forward to vacation. Work for the both of us has been so crazy. We really have been living like robots. So finally after all the Cincy apts for Colt and I had a two day meeting that week in Lexington, Friday, after work we were off to Destin!
http://www.vrbo.com/25588
This one did not have a private pool, but the two in between us did, the community pool was super nice and only like 3 houses down from the house we stayed. I honestly didn't have to pack hardly any baby stuff cause this house had so much already!

I think we drove to Birmingham, AL that night or past it. I just know we didn't leave until 6 that evening and it was like 1 am and we couldn't find a hotel due to all the tornado destruction. All the hotels were full. Finally we found one! Trust me, it wasn't anything to brag about, but we needed sleep!   I have to brag! My little boy is the perfect travel buddy! I was so proud of him. I just turn on Artsee Smartsee DVD and he is under some spell and loves watching it!

The next day we take our time and off to DESTIN!   I guess we get there around 2:30/3:00 and from then on we have an awesome time.

NOTICE____ALL THE STUFF REQUIRED FOR BABY < 1 year!!!

1st icecream

loved it

I know I had told you the house was perfect and it was, if I wasn't 20weeks pregnant with Twins. We could see the ocean, it was ocean view, and we had access to a pool, but having a 11 month old who isn't walking yet, was a lot of work. But so worth it!!!

BABY BUGGY is an awesome float and we carried it every day!!

STAYING COOL in Cousin PARKER"S pool! THX P!

Playing with Cousin Carter and sucking his lips due to the saltwater

This was our first vaca as parents! Boy oh Boy was it different! I mean it was all good, but a baby require a lot! I mean a lot--to make it convenient for you that is!!! Anyways, it would of been no big deal, but we had to walk, not far, but I don't walk anymore. I waddle to and from! It was a lot of work for Mama!

Dada taking Colt out in the ocean to cool him down

Colt loved the ocean, (only on overcast days) he doesn't like to be hot! I mean at all! So we didn't get to hang at the beach as much as we would of liked! We wanted to keep Colt happy and that was keeping him cool, in the water, at the pool. I have to admit, Mama liked the pool too! Mama got hot too!

loved the soft sand

The wind was blowing and he loved the texture of the sand

He was cracking himself up!

This just shows you how my little man loves water---even cold from the hose

Everything to try to keep him happy

Matt and I established rules during this vacation!
Rule #1. No more vacations pregnant!   (Which this will be my last)
Rule #2. No more vacations with little ones June-August---it's just too hot
Rule #3. No more vacations until the boys can walk
Rule #4 No more ocean view houses or community pools with little ones < 1 year where you have to walk to-just convenient to be oceanfront when little ones want to nap or pregnant mama has to pee

We had a blast! Mama was just tired and in bed by 10 pm almost every night! :)
We ate really good and did some fun things with the kids.   I'm very lucky to have such an awesome family! It was really nice spending it with Colt's Great grandparents too! We made some awesome memories that I will always cherish!

Dewy Destin Restaurant

Down by the Harbor at some of the Restaurants

Carter loving this pirate after his mama confirmed "its fake"!

Great Grandparents and Colt chillin by the pool

The Grandchildren 2011

Close Cousins!

Meanwhile, back at Triple C farm, my mom and sister stayed and watched over things. Trenda, my sis, became a little cowgirl or a calf watcher! We had a couple of cows expecting to give birth any day while we were away and Trenda took care of all that! How lucky we are! It's very hard to have such farm responsibilities and be able to go on vacation. We are grateful for all our family and Matt and I thank God for them all!

Skip, Bo, Gunner and Shooter

Cows

Pepper

Kate

Having Fun in the Sun Summer 2011

GROWING IN JUNE

2011-07-23T22:49:00.001-04:00

WATCH OUT! HERE COMES COLT!

MAMA CATCHING SOME LOVE

SITTING ON THE PORCH EARLY MORNING!!

Well, I'm making this non-blogging a habit, so having to do a lot of catch-up! Where did June even go? In a blink it was gone. Do you feel that way? We went to do Douglas Lake, TN , Matt's aunt and uncle's cabin over Memorial Day and after that time has seemed to have disappeared. My little Colt is just growing to fast! He started saying "mama" around the weekend of Memorial Day. Matt didn't believe me until one morning while we all sat down to eat breakfast, Colt started saying "mama mama" in front of everyone, so I wasn't making it up. Music to my ears! Of course, Matt saying it with a huge smile said he was trying to say "Matt". He always has a wise comeback! Anyways, Colt did great while we visited and it was good to get away from all the "busy" for a couple of days. Due to my pregnancy and really all the rain we had had, this was the first weekend I had been out on the lake in our boat. We had a lot of fun!

GOING FOR A BOAT RIDE ON DOUGLAS LAKE

LOVES HIS MAMAW TOO!

So Colt saying "mama" first I was determined to help him say "dada" before father's day. So we started working on that.   We had planned our family vacation for June 17-24 at one of my favorite places, Destin, FL.   I have to admit. I'm spoiled when it comes to travel. I love this beach because the Gulf sand is soft, fluffy, and it doesn't seem to stick to you like Atlantic coast sand. It's white and it looks so clean. Don't get me wrong a beach is a beach and I'm happy & blessed we can go, but if I'm going to a beach I want it to be a fav! You can go out into the ocean up to your neck and still see your toes.   Now, ST. John, is still my all time favorite, even over Hawaii (St John is 3.5hrs flight from Cincy--that helps) and I hope when all our boys become mobile, we can take them to St. John!
Well Colt started saying "dada" after just a week of working with him, around the 2nd week of June.   He would say "dada" so much and so loud, Mama was getting jealous. He wasn't saying "mama" anymore, it was all "dada dada dada" and he would scream it! Matt of course ate this up! It's so fun being a parent! "Was our life so boring before?" I mean, what on earth did we do?

http://www.facebook.com/#!/video/video.php?v=2177350116929

You can click on the link and hear Colt saying "dada'   --to turn off the music go to the playlist on the right hand side and click pause button so you can hear!   It's precious!

COLT VISITING PIKEVILLE, GREAT GRANDMA DORIS

LOOKING LIKE DADA IN THIS PIC--- SNEAKY SMILE!!

His Aunt T bought him tons of beach clothes!!!

Aunt T bought him sunglasses! Colt is WAaaay COOOOL!

BIG BOY DRINKING WHOLE MILK USING HIS SIPPY CUP

LOVE THIS FACE

HAPPY HAPPY BOY

YES!!! AUNT T BOUGHT HIM HIS FIRST PAIR OF SPERRY'S

Also in June, Colt had his 11 month evaluation and a hearing test at Cincy Children's. I purposely scheduled these apts. back to back. The hearing test just needed to be done, we know Colt can hear, it was never confirmed just how good he can hear. I always get so nervous with the evaluations. How can a team of 8, doctors and therapists, see all I see in just a couple of hours. Well, they (docs and therapists) were very impressed with my little man and he is right on schedule. He also passed his hearing test! I thank God everyday for my little man and his health. We all face challenges in life and when it comes to our children's health (no matter what the diagnosis or issue may me) we are vulnerable. I would be lying if I said I don't worry anymore. I think it is just being a parent. You always worry. I love my son more than I knew I could ever love. I just pray everyday and give thanks. As I've said before, I'm stronger. It's parenthood that has made be stronger. ~~I feel capable of anything~~. My child has made me stronger and capable of anything, not me! He inspires me-and I want him to inspire you too! I'm stronger in my faith because of him.

"I can do all things through Christ who gives me strength (Phil. 4:13)

THIS SMILE LIGHTS UP MY WORLD

One of my fav pics!

My sister had went with me to help me during the hearing test and evaluation. It's very hard to walk with a 24 pounder and being pregnant with twins. I so appreciated her company and we had so much fun. Colt absolutely loves her so much. I'm very lucky and blessed to have such a wonderful sister!

LOVES AUNT T

LIVING AND LOVING ALL WE CAN!!!

FOR SALE!!!

2011-06-04T09:29:00.000-04:00

http://thepinkpelican.com/catalog.php?item=2361

I purchased this dress end of Feb, 1st of March, before I knew I was having TWINS for our awards banquet! This year our banquet was casual (first time in 11 years), but I have came to realize I need the $$$ vs the Lilly dress! If interested please email me. The dress is new with tags, never been wore and is in the color JEWEL GREEN! Sz 8. Dress retails for $328.00--I'm asking $275.00 and will ship!! It's a beautiful dress! Perfect for weddings this summer! My friend from http://daveandbritplusone.blogspot.com/ wore this dress to the Derby and it was just beautiful!! Please let me know!

HAPPY TIMES!

2011-05-21T20:05:00.002-04:00

Well I have some more "xtra" Perfect news to share, but before I do I must catch you up with what has been going on.
   On March 14, just 2 weeks after I announced my pregnancy to our family, I woke up in the middle of the night to make my nightly trip to the bathroom. I then saw every pregnant woman's nightmare. It was a horrific site. This may be TMI, but I want to share this, in case anyone is ever going through the same experience. There was blood... and there was alot of it. As you may recall, I lost my 1st pregnancy, but not this way. Our baby had stopped growing and we had a D&C, so I assumed this is what it was like having a miscarriage. I immediately called my doctor, it was just 3:oo am! He answered and it took him a while to figure out who I was. I was supposed to go in Wednesday March 16, for our first ultrasound. He kept asking if I was in any pain and I said "No" and he wanted to see me today as soon as we could be there.
   Well, I really didn't know what to do after I hung up the phone. I was afraid if I didn't wake Matt up and tell him what was going on, if some sorta pain started he wouldn't know what to do. So, I woke him up and explained what had happened.
   Neither of us went back to sleep. I tried to stay positive. God does have a plan, maybe now just isn't it, was my thoughts. While I was laying there in bed, I realized even more so, how blessed I am to already have my precious baby boy, Colt. When Colt woke up that morning I held him a little tighter. I can't imagine my life without him. I love him so. Throughout this entire process, I prayed for whatever is best for our family and again, I was just trying to stay positive.
   I kept it together on the drive to Cincy. It was a long 2 hour drive, but Matt and talked about our little guy and how well he is doing at everything. I remember telling Matt, I still felt nauseas. I have been sick with this pregnancy, but it gets worse at night, it's the same way I was with Colt. Well---let's just say I really don't ever feel great, but compared to the evenings, my mornings are so much better.
   I keep it together until we go in the room, a couple of tears, but I was still good. When Dr. Schieber came in, he was very positive and we started the ultrasound immediately. As I laid there, I was trying to think about Colt and happy thoughts, fighting back my breaking heart. Then, Dr Schieber said, "No", "Your still Pregnant", "VERY Pregnant! I looked at the screen and there I saw 2 little bubbles of seahorses with fast beating hearts! We were STILL Pregnant with Twins!
   I looked at Matt and he had a smile on his face from ear to ear! We were so happy! Happy to Hear Good News!

The First photo of our "blastocysts"--our Twins!

THIS WAS the image we saw on March 14 6 weeks preggers! It's not clear, but you can see 2 little sacs with lil embryos in the making! :)

I have forgotten what settings my camera needs to be on for up close images, maybe it will come back to me in time!

So, a lot has been going on and I'm now 16 weeks preggers and my little man is 10 months old! If you see me, you would probably think I'm 26 weeks pregnant, I started showing very very early! I can't believe how fast time is going!
This pregnancy really hasn't been that different from Colt. I have had more headaches with the twins, (hope that isn't a sign) and heartburn started with Colt at 8 weeks, but didn't really start with the twins until 14 weeks. I'm still sick at night, at least 1 puke a night and I'm good after that! In the beginning of my pregnancy with the twins, all I wanted was meat, meat, meat--but, only during the daytime hours. I drink lots of milk, which isn't like me at all!
WE do know the sex of the twins! We are having twin BOYS! We are very, very happy! We honestly did not care what the gender would be with any of our pregnancies. I just want to continue to have Healthy babies and easy delivery! :)

Me telling COLT He is going to have TWO Siblings!!!

I'm not a fan of pregnancy pics of myself--that being said here is one, my mom did take at my nephew's B-day party April 23- 12-13 weeks!

HAPPY 1ST EASTER TO MY BABY BOY!!! COLT MATTHEW --WE LOVE U SO!!!

Our 1st EASTER

I have some really cute EASTER pics of Colt with a "live" bunny, but I haven't purchased them yet, so I will post soon.

This was Colt's reaction when I showed him he was going to be a BIG BROTHER to TWO little BROTHERS!!!

This entire process has been very emotional, but with "xtra" efforts, lots of prayers and support ===things are going really good so far. Please continue to pray all continues to go "xtra" perfect for our family!

Today is World Down Syndrome Awareness Day.

2011-03-21T18:41:00.005-04:00

Today is World Down Syndrome Awareness Day. I feel horrible because I didn't know this until I had to take Colt in to see his doctor, Dr. Brandy Fouch and Shasta Kessler. He's okay. It is just a cold, but he coughs horrible and he ran a fever all weekend so I was just being cautious. Neither of us slept last night, he coughed nonstop. He is feeling much better. We are very lucky because he really hasn't been that sick this winter. (knock on wood) He had a really high fever once from shots, but this was probably the first high fever he has had not related to shots, so we have been pretty lucky. I think a lot of that is because we had tubes put in his ears at 4months. The tubes were put in by Dr Sally Shott, of Cincinnati Children's Hospital, who our docs referred Colt to when we received the results from his diagnosis. So let's discuss Colt diagnosis DOWN SYNDROME.
   It's funny because I think so differently now when I say DOWN SYNDROME. My throat doesn't get tight, making it hard for me to swallow. I don't feel like everyone is hearing how hard my heart is pounding out of my chest. Everything is GOOD! I have to thank Colt's pediatrician's, Mount Sterling Pediatrics, Dr Brandy Fouch and Shasta Kessler and all of the staff for all they have done for my handsome little guy. I used to sell pharmaceuticals and I know Shasta very well, so when his diagnosis was questionable I thought WHY don't we go see her. So we did!
   He was a week old and I didn't tell her on FB why I wanted her medical opinion, I was curious to see what she would say when she saw him. I could tell as she looked at his little lowerd ears, saw the Palmer's crease on his Left hand, so I told her a chromosomal test had been ordered but we hadn't heard anything from it. She told me she would have ordered the same test and I think at that point I started to realize --my new baby boy has down syndrome. Shasta and Dr Fouch both are AMazing! They were on the phone with the laboratory at University of Kentucky Hospital while I was still there searching for Colt's results.
   We found out, the test was ordered, but no blood was ever drawn. So, we had to take our baby to UK (1 week old) to have his blood drawn so we could just move on. I was outraged! Not at my pediatricians, but at the hospital where Colt was born, because the test was ordered, but the nurses failed to take his blood. I realize mistakes happen everyday, but I know this was questionable in the hospital too, and I'm sure doctors and nurses discussed the possibility of the DS diagnosis. The test was ordered at shift change, so I realize things happen, but it doesn't (still) change how I felt. I was taking my little healthy baby to a hospital where a lot of sickness can easily be picked up. I was so angry and that's all I remember about that day.
   5 days later, July 21st, Shasta and Dr Fouch call me and tell my husband and I to come into the office. I had already started googling everything on DS. Let me just tell you, never google anything when it comes to stuff like this. You will only find the worse of the worst. (Is that how that saying goes?) You never hear the positives of it all! ---I could tell on their faces the answer, but they were so positive and telling me that things will be okay. "He seems perfectly healthy", I remember them both saying. Of course tears falling from my face, holding my baby as tight as I could to my chest. It was like I wanted him to know that I loved him no matter what and WE will do whatever it takes to make this work!
   They left us alone a bit, after explaining DS and giving us our game plan for next steps! All I remember is Matt holding Colt and me telling us everything will be fine. "He is strong Christie", "Look at him". Colt was a mover, he was already trying to lift that tiny little head! I knew my son was perfect. I think more than anything, I doubted myself. I couldn't believe God trusted me with a child with DS. I was terrified. What if there is something wrong with him? What is his life going to be like? Dr Fouch and Shasta came back in to tell us about Cincinnati Children's Hospital and The Thomas Moore Center for Down Syndrome. They will fully examine Colt and everything is under one umbrella. I like the plan, they truly put themselves in our shoes and even said this is where I would go. That's all I needed to hear.
   I remember this day very well. It was July 23rd and off we go to Cincinnati Children's hospital. We were going to the Cardiology dept. to see Dr Kimball, a cardiologist. We went back into the ultrasound room where they hooked all kinds of equipment to my tiny baby's little chest. They performed an eeg, ekg, and we watched as the techs watched the flow of Colt's blood going in and out of the heart. The techs talking and using a lot of acronyms and I was trying to remember my Coreg days of drug repping (heart drug) and biology days to try and keep up, but couldn't! We were back there over an hour. Colt had fallen asleep and did a great job through it all.
We then went back to a little room and waited for Dr Kimball to come in and go over the results. I really liked Dr Kimball. He didn't talk down to you. He sat next to you in a chair and went into the results in detail. HIS HEART IS AS PERFECT AS YOURS! "He is fine, we saw no structure or bloodflow abnormalities." You can only imagine the relief! From that moment on, Matt and I agreed Colt will do whatever he wants! He will never say "Can't" because of his "xtra" chromosome if he truly wants to do something.
   I guess I want people to know that Down Syndrome is not a BAD thing. It's a BEAUTIFUL thing! I want Colt to inspire all of you like he has us! I am so proud of him. His little personality is showing through everyday. He does have a temper! Remember he is red headed! Don't let that little smile fool you! lol At the same time he is very sweet and loving. When he wants something or tries to do something you can see nothing but determination in his eyes. He watches everything and you can tell he is taking it all in. I don't talk about DS a lot, because when I look at Colt that isn't what I see. I don't see an 'xtra" chromosome. I see US! Matt and me! I love what I see and honestly would not change a thing!

Just Born JULY 7, 2010

During that first week of Colt's life, when we didn't know his diagnosis. I started finding blogs on DS and how families would say they wouldn't change their child. I can remember thinking, "of course you would", "no one wants anything to be wrong with their child"--Well, how wrong and uneducated I was! Colt has Down Syndrome and I would not change one thing about him. He is now 8 months old, he understands everything we say, he plays pat a cake (claps his hands), he jumps in his jumparoo, he babbles, he eats (can you tell from his pics), he is sitting up, he has been rolling over since he was 4 weeks old, he is an 8 month old HAPPY little boy!
Now, saying all of that, some "xtra" effort has been made. We have been doing physical therapy since he was 2 months old. His physical therapist PT, Danielle Mains, and his Developmental Intervenionist DI, Sherri Fulks has always pushed Colt. They are amazing and I thank them for all they do! They have taught us little techniques when we play with Colt to help him. So it's all basically playing and interacting with him to get his attention and make him respond. As you know, from my previous post, we are expecting again. Everything Danielle and Sherri has taught me to help Colt, I plan to use these techniques to help the next Carter baby. As parents, we can do so much to help motivate our children and help them learn things quickly. When they are young the mind is like a sponge. I watched my sister, Trenda, who is a kindergarten teacher work with Colt. Trenda only gets to see Colt on the weekends. This past weekend Colt had a terrible cold and he still wanted to learn. I will try to post the video below.

July 9, 2010 (3 days old)

5 days old

7months

8 months

Video this weekend of my sister, Trenda, a kindergarten teacher (she only sees Colt on the weekends) Only 2 weekends and look at my little man!

For the record, I can remember getting Colt's results of the nuchal translucency (fluid around the base of neck) when I was 12 weeks pregnant. The result was 2.6 and normal I think is 2.5. He was growing perfectly. His bones were normal, his nasal bone present, no indication of DS. The doctor gave me a choice of an amniocentesis. He said our chances was 3% of having a child with DS. My question to him was, "Why would I"? My doctor, being the Christian man he is, agreed! Will it affect the outcome, he asked? Absolutely not! I had no clue that my baby had (has) DS, and look how "xtra" perfect things have turned out. I have learned so much these past 8 months. I look at things so different, but I think a lot of that comes with motherhood. I feel STRONGER! I feel like I am CAPABLE of anything! My Faith is stronger. I realize "things happen", not what you planned, but there is a reason. I can honestly say, My Life is far better than I could of ever planned. I have accepted things and moved forward with a positive outlook. Life is definitely what you make of it! All anyone wants is Happiness and for their children to be HAPPY!

Living HAPPY As MUCH As we CAN!

MOST OF THE TIME!

NEW LIFE = SPRING

2011-03-19T13:04:00.001-04:00

THINGS ARE GETTING GREEN ON THE FARM!

Our pastures are getting so green--in the far right you should see 4 dots, those are our horses. Our cows are down in the hollow grazing new grass.

   The weather is really shaping up here on Triple C Farm. Things are getting a little greener and the cow scent getting a little stronger. Pretty soon when the cows are out, we should see tiny little black dots laying in the pastures, that would be our new baby calves. New baby calves is the official sign of SPRING on our farm.

   Well I know you all are wondering if I have NEWS to share and.................I DO! I actually cheated and took a pregnancy test on Saturday, Feb 26. I got a BFP! That would be a BIG FAT POSITIVE for those who don't know!
   For those of you trying to conceive, I order my pregnancy tests online, www.early-pregnancy-tests.com.
They haven't failed me yet! I also order my ovulation tests from them too, it's the cheapest and it works! These test pick up Hcg has low has 10 miu/ml, I think this is the extra sensitive. The regular tests pick up Hcg of 20 (I think). I have found out at least 5-7 days before you are supposed to, so I highly recommend!

  I went in on Monday, Feb 28, to Cincy for bloodwork then jumped on a plane to Florida for my meeting. As I was waiting in line for a cab outside the airport, I saw the Institute of Reproductive Health calling me. I told the lady waiting behind me to go ahead and take my cab, because I have to answer this call. When I said, "Hello", my nurse Penny, was ecstatic! My Hcg just needed to be at least 100 and it was 1500! Yeeeaaah! Of course, tears filled my eyes, and my heart pounded with joy! I couldn't wait to call my husband and tell him the good news. I know I took a test prior, but this was the confirmation that it DID happen and all was so "xtra" perfect!!!

I had to go back to the doctor to make sure my Hcg number had doubled on Thursday when I returned home. They called that evening and said my Hcg number was so high the machine couldn't read it. I was confused at first, and asked "if that was okay"--the nurse said it was fine, that is a could sign all is doing what is it suppose to, and that's all I needed to hear.

Sorry that I haven't updated my blog sooner, but as some of you know, it's still so early, and such a critical time. I didn't even share the news with Colt until I was 14 weeks, because I was so scared. My first pregnancy, before Colt, stopped growing at 9 weeks, but I was in training with work and didn't find out until we went to hear the heartbeat at 1I.5 weeks. That was horrible time. Being our first pregnancy and being so excited about it, we had already shared the news with everyone. So having to tell everyone "It just wasn't meant" was like reliving the horrible vision of seeing a little precious life, but no heartbeat everytime we had to tell someone. That was such an empty feeling, that we had to deal with. It was horrible and I hope I never have to face that moment again. There are some positives that came about all that horrible time. If it had to have happened, I"m glad it happened the way it did. I wasn't on the road working or 2 hours away from home. I wasn't in any pain, except for a broken heart. I was with my husband, who that day, I saw just how much I actually do mean to him! I know that may sound crazy, but Matt and I really don't show our emotions that well. We Love each other and that's why we are together. That's about as sweet as we get! Going through a D and C the same day and loosing our first child was a moment we came together the first time and we both had to learn to deal with--"things happen" not always the way you want, but we have learned to overcome those moments and that has made our relationship stronger.
   So now you know WHY I was so scared to share our exciting news.   I'm only 7 weeks and so many things still have to continue to go so perfect. It's so amazing how LIFE begins. It's definitely a miracle from GOD and I am so thankful for his wonderful blessings. I can't believe I am already 7 weeks, we just put in the blastocysts Feb 16 and already so much has changed. I don't want to complain at all, because I love what has happened, but I am very sick at night, just like I was with Colt. I think God helps you forget all that, so you will have more! LOL It is so worth it though! Every gag, spit, bad smell, hugging the toilet----it's so WORTH IT!

BEST BIG BROTHER!

BEST BIG BROTHER IN THE WORLD!

8 month pics my friend Rachael took of Colt!

Hoping to have some more Good news Soon

SUNSHINE

2011-02-26T10:21:00.005-05:00

Why does the sunshine make us all feel better? I guess the scientific answer is Vitamin D? I know this past Wednesday was absolutely gorgeous for February in KY! Have you ever noticed while driving on a sunny day how everyone around you is smiling and there seems to be less road rage! I know it makes me feel better and drive better! On the way home from work, I had to take a detour route by the lake. We spend many wonderful days on this piece of water. It's our getaway! It's Cave Run Lake located in Morehead Ky, and the best thing is, it's only 10 minutes away from our house! I needed a getaway! My head was pounding and I think I was just stressed and overwhelmed with the world of BUSY and Anxiety of "Did it Happen"! It was nice, BRIGHT and calm! I pulled over just to hear the wind blow and watch the water move! I think sometimes when you feel like all is coming down on you, I know for me, little things like enjoying the sunshine, makes it all better! It was sooo NICE! Letting the sun heat my pale face that hasn't seen the sun since July 4th weekend 2010 was a MUST Have today. The wind was blowing my blues away for at least 15 minutes! How I love the water and the sun so! I've sure missed it these last couple of days!

(While I was driving, a song called "Sound OF SUNSHINE" came on--it was Perfect for the day) click on the bottom of the playlist to hear!

Cave Run Lake --we love this place!

Well, I apologize, it's been over a week since I have blogged and so much has been going on. I have been trying to keep myself busy so I don't drive myself crazy wondering if one of those little blastocyst's decided to burrow itself somewhere in my uterus! I mean, it's so hard not to think about it! I know something happened! I saw my 2 little embryos. I think the anxiety is even worse than "the old fashion way" this time I know a form of LIFE started, but the question is, --Did it continue? OH HOW Monday can't get here fast enough. I go for blood work that morning, then I have to hop on a plane to go to a meeting in the Sunshine state for 3 days! YES! Sounds like fun! --NO---I mean it's fun seeing all my friends and teammates and I do love my job, but it's work---so no laying in the sun by the pool like you would do on vacation! I promise its all work! It's still fun and we always make the best of it! I work to go on vacation--hopefully we will do that soon! I am excited about seeing some sunshine, even if it's through a window.
This past Wednesday I became really nauseous around 3:00 pm and had a major headache. I had to call my awesome mother-in-law to help me with Colt once I got home. I didn't think much of it, until that evening when I started craving gallons of water. I live on regular Coke, like almost IV hook up--so even my husband questioned by guzzling of water! The next day no headache, (H2O is good) but nauseous the same exact time. Today, the same! 3:00 pm, It's like raining, snowing--it's cold and I had the window almost half down taking deep breaths driving west on I64! This is the exact way I was in the early beginning with Colt, so I'm thinking something is going on. I'm afraid to say! I'm going to be heartbroken and disappointed if nothing happened, but I realize if things don't go my way, God has a better plan for me.

Well let's talk about some ALL THE TIME SUNSHINE___ COLT MATTHEW

Eating up all this SUNSHINE!

I must brag on my little man, MY SUNSHINE! He is doing GREAT! He tries to mimic everything you do. My mother-in-law has taught him to pucker his lips and smooch! It's adorable to watch! Also, he loves to pat-a-cake! My aunt, (that would be Colt's GREAT AUNT) Sharon, bought him a lil bear that sings pat-a-cake while clapping it's hands. He wasn't so sure about it at first, but it didn't take long for him to catch on and now he LOVes it! We play with it every night! Thank you GREAT AUNT SHARON

Wasn't sure about the Pat a cake bear singing Pat a cake while moving it's arms

He Likes it

He also has discovered he can jump in his jumparoo! It's hilarious to watch! I will try to upload a video of it! I'm still new at all this blog stuff! You will have to see, he dances like a leprechaun! LOL

My Mama is coming to watch Colt while I'm away! I know she will so spoil him, but I would do the exact same thing if I was in her shoes!

Have a Wonderful Weekend! Hope you see some SUNSHINE and I Hope I have some xtra good news for all soon!!! :)

SIMPLY AMAZING

2011-02-17T18:04:00.020-05:00

Our invitro journey is now in the dreaded 2 week wait! Before I began telling you how yesterday went, Wednesday. I have to take you back to every phone call that was made. So, on Sat, the day after our egg retrieval, our IVF nurse calls and tells us out of the 29 follicles, they were able to work with 24 of them. Meaning those eggs were of good size. Each egg was injected with my husband's sperm. This is a process called ICSI (icksee). Trust me----Again, NOT my "Perfect Plan" of how we would conceive our next baby, but oh well. You take what you can get! Right? Out of those 24--16 fertilized. So at this point we are working with 16! This was the information we found out on Monday. From this stage is when the cells begin dividing and those that continue to divide will be genetic tested. The #'s, at this point, were so positive our apt for a transfer was made, because odds are we would have something (all we want is 2) to be transferred.
WEDNESDAY--TRANSFER
Well on our way up to Cincinnati, our Nurse calls us with the genetic report. We have 10! 10 embryos so far, had continued dividing.
Before we begin with the transfer, Dr Michael Scheiber informs us of more positive news. He educates us on the cell division stage called "blastocyst'. This is when the cells have divided hundreds and hundreds of times, and he described ours being at the last stage that can sustain outside the human body. He tells us, not every couple achieves this stage in the process and we are very blessed because we have 4 embryos that achieved this stage and we have more dividing!
A blastocyst is a highly developed embryo that has divided many times to a point where it is nearly ready to implant on the walls of the uterus. A blastocyst has come a long way from its beginning as a single cell

Pics of our 2 embryos at the blastocyst stage! And a Petri dish where the Action Happened! Simply Amazing and so taken for granted! You can see "hatching" (the smaller bubble outside the circle)--that means they are ready to implant!!!

So we transferred 2 and we had 2 frozen. I have to say it was Painless, and very quick <15 min :) We were told we have over a 50% chance of being preggers at this point because our lil embryos have made it so far within the process! We will have to wait 2 weeks!
I took off work today, to rest and really try to think positive thoughts! I received a call this morning and the it was our Nurse! She said we had 2 more to make it to the blastocyst stage, and asking me if we wanted to freeze! Absolutely! So now in basic terms....We have 2 in the OVEN and 4 in the FRIDGE! Going to be a loooong 2 weeks!
Here is more info on blastocyst and I'm including the link of my AMazing Doctor!
http://www.ivf.com/blastocyst.html

http://www.cincinnatifertility.com/

Thanks for praying for us and hoping to share "xtra" good news with you soon!

Some HAPPY until next time!

LIVING XTRA HAPPY-----

"HUMBLED"

2011-02-17T17:09:00.006-05:00

I would like to thank all of those who shared your own challenges with me. I am humbled, what more can I say. It seems we all have our own challenges in life. BIG and small, but when it comes to our own life--no matter what--It's a BIG deal. I think it takes time to find courage to share those challenges we face and I am so humbled you shared. I have to say, it's very out of character for me to share any of this with you, but you inspire me too. I think we all need to hear (no matter what the challenge we face is)--It's okay and everything will work out. YOU can Handle this! You are CAPABLE!
So, Here is a little quote I found for all of us,----------
Life's challenges are not supposed to paralyze you, they're supposed to help you discover who you are.” --- Bernice Johnson Reagon

When I see my baby's blue eyes---I'm humbled of a LOVE so GREAT and I'm humbled that the Lord made me his MAMA! I'm so thankful and I wouldn't change a thing!

I wish I could turn off my green light on my camera--he stares right at it until it goes away! lol

LIVING AND LOVING AS MUCH AS I CAN

A New Journey......

2011-02-12T00:58:00.003-05:00

Since this is my first post, you will have to stop and read "About this blog" so you will know what exactly is going on with me. This blog is a work in progress so bare with me! I can't spell and I know I don't use correct grammar, but, I'll try!
Well, eventually, in the (Invitro Journey tab) I will go into detail about the physical and emotions going through invitro (IVF). It honestly hasn't been that bad. Which I have been so busy taking care of Colt, taking care of 2 dogs, housework, and trying to keep my head above water with work (if that is possible)! Matt and I always said once we have children, we want them close in age. Some people think we are crazy! I don't! We have friends that have twins, triplets, 17 months apart and 5-7 years apart. They all do a fantastic job of managing daily activites. I think whatever happens is what is best for you! We are all different and love to share our opinions! No one is right or wrong. You may want to share because you may feel your experience is simply the best.. You know no other way for life to be, so we share! Well--I'm 33, going on 34 this year and it took us 3 years to get Colt, so we are in the process of another. I say I want a total of 4, but Matt will say 3 is the limit! Again, I'm trying to plan, but I guess we will see.
We have been so very blessed to have the love and support from our families and friends that it just feels right to have another so close. Plus, I have to brag! My baby has slept through the night since he was 4 weeks old and my labor and delivery was super easy! My husband is great at taking care of C. There are times when I'm gone for days, sometimes a week for work and we just do it.
I think that is what you do. You know no other way of life. You learn to adjust to whatever situation and that becomes your routine. I crack up when people say "Oh, I couldn't have another little one, it's just too much"! Well, your situation is different from mine, and I want my little ones all running around at the same time! It will be all that I know to do, plus we already have every single thing we need. Colt has gotten so much stuff, he hasn't even used half of it. Why not just get use out of everything. If you wait too long, everything is outdated! Oh well--just again, my opinion! We all have our different logic's of why we do the things we do.
Today was Egg Retrieval for us! Long story short, I've been taking injections since Jan 28th. (If you are interested in my treatment regimen and all that stuff, just contact me.) We have been patiently waiting for my follicles to mature. Mature, means within a size that will sustain conception. We needed a lot because we are going through PGD (genetic testing) as well. So the embryos have to reach a certain cell division called blastocyst in order to be tested and then transferred back to me hopefully on Wednesday! WE had Good news today --- we had 29 Mature follicles! The more we have the higher our chances! I find out tomorrow how many actually fertilized, so we will see.
No matter the outcome of this journey, I know there is a reason! It amazes me how anybody can get pregnant so easily. Every tiny detail has got to go just right, be the correct size, the exact amount and timing! It makes me appreciate even more how we conceived Colt on our own! So after sharing some GOOD news with my very BF this week. She replies this............
.....So the Lord said, "If you have faith as a mustard seed, you can say to this mulberry tree, 'Be pulled up by the roots and be planted in the sea,' and it would obey you." (Luke 17:6)

She knows me waaay to well----EXACTLY WHAT I NEEDED TO HEAR AND BE REMINDED OF :)