This week we had an appointment with our OB. Baby girl was so squirmy so it took the doctor a while to find the heart beat. I just love the sound of the steady rhythm of a growing baby's heart. Our surrogate is starting to feel better, not quite as nauseous. She is such a trooper!
Next week marks the 1 year mark of loosing our baby and nearly my life. It is so weird to think that it has really been 1 year. At this last Doctor's visit, my OB, who as become a close confidant said that it takes most people 4 years to get to where we are now. I think this a testament to my amazing support system, my faith and our surrogate. There are still moments when I feel emotional, sad and confused about the ordeal went through last year. Just thinking about it, takes me right back to the recovery room and ICU. After 1 full year though, I feel strong, empowered and hopeful. Time really does heal all wounds.
I know that I have expressed my thanks and gratitude over the last year but I am taking the opportunity to do it one more time. Life is so precious and it is important to give thanks for those that impact our journey. Here are just a few of the amazing people who have helped me get to where I am today:
-Our surrogate, you have given me the greatest gift I could have ever asked for. Your sacrifice and dedication are remarkable. I am still in awe that you are doing this for our family. You will always hold a special place in my heart.
-My husband, you are my true life partner. There are times that I wonder how we got through the last year. Our bond and devotion is unique and I cherish it every day. You are an amazing father, husband and man. I know the last year was equally as rough for you. I know that there will be bright days in our future.
-My parents, you were such steady and reliable support to our family. I can't imagine what you went through last year, as I know the extreme love I feel for my own children. You are our rocks and I love you both so much.
-Dr. E, you are an amazing physician. I credit so much of my outlook and healing to you. Your skill, bedside manner and friendship is something I cherish. I am so glad you have been there every step of the way with us.
-My siblings, you stepped up in so many ways while I was recovering. Taking care of my children without any hesitation showed me that I can always count on you in good times and bad.
-Andrea, you are truly the kind of friend that comes along once in a lifetime. Your kindness, understanding and love is amazing. From organizing meal drop offs to making yourself available for my phone calls, you are the best!
-Yalith and Alanna, your help last year was incredible. You treated my children so wonderfully. We could not have managed without your help!
-Jamie and Jan, two long time friends of my mom, your heartfelt letters were so moving. I have them saved in a special place and read them whenever I need comfort. Thank you!
-Chanda, It took a year but you got me to feel like myself again. You are an amazing trainer and friend and I am grateful that you are in my life. I credit so much of my physical and emotional healing to you.
-Jennifer H., through my whole ordeal, I found a a life long friend in you. Your respect and genuine concern will never be forgotten.
-Alisa, the ultimate matchmaker! Thank you for bringing our surrogate and myself together!
-Laurie, Thank you for being my mentor, guide and friend. Without your continuing guidance I wouldn't be where I am now.
-Lorie, Thank you for the kindness you showed my mom and Todd while I was at the hospital. You were the first one there with food and waters.
-Annie, the fact that you were going through your own ordeal and you still dropped off bags and bags of groceries is truly remarkable. You are a strong and amazing woman.
-Caryl, Thank you for your effots in trying to find me a surrogate. Your willingness to give so much of yourself is incredible.
For all of my other friends and family, I eternally grateful to you. I would not be expecting my baby girl in December if it wasn't for your support.
There are many other people that dropped off meals and sent cards. Thank you for your help and I can't wait for you to meet our new addition!
Thursday, June 24, 2010
Friday, June 18, 2010
A Lot of Pink in The Future
We are having a GIRL! Yesterday we went to Peekabo Ultrasound, where you can see the sex of the baby at 14 weeks. We had a quite a party in the room as the technician declared that the baby is a girl. My husband, my mom, my sister, my brother, my two sons and our surrogate's two children were all in attendance for this magical day.
I felt such a sense of joy that we could all share in this experience together. Our surrogate's daughter kept saying,"oh isn't the baby cute!" She is such a precious little girl, so enthusiastic about life. The images were projected onto a big screen so we could see the active baby girl moving around. She even gave us a little wave. The technician even commented on how active she was.
One other fun tidbit was that the technician could tell that our little girl is going to have chubby cheeks by the way they are developing. I just love chubby babes.
Every day that goes by, my excitement increases. I can just envision holding our new little baby and smelling the delicious new baby smell. Yesterday was a truly wonderful day for our family!
I felt such a sense of joy that we could all share in this experience together. Our surrogate's daughter kept saying,"oh isn't the baby cute!" She is such a precious little girl, so enthusiastic about life. The images were projected onto a big screen so we could see the active baby girl moving around. She even gave us a little wave. The technician even commented on how active she was.
One other fun tidbit was that the technician could tell that our little girl is going to have chubby cheeks by the way they are developing. I just love chubby babes.
Every day that goes by, my excitement increases. I can just envision holding our new little baby and smelling the delicious new baby smell. Yesterday was a truly wonderful day for our family!
Saturday, June 5, 2010
13 Weeks! Let's Celebrate with a Little Smores.
Today marks the end of the first trimester! It is truly inspiring to see how far we have come in such a short amount of time.
The end of our first trimester also lined up to our family's first camping trip. Along with a few other families, my parents, my sister, my Aunt, our nanny and her husband we set off for a State Beach site, just 20 minutes North.
The preparation was overwhelming at times. Growing up, all of our family vacations were camping. I really don't know how my parents did it with four children. They are amazing! There were definite times that I questioned, "Is all of this prep worth it?" It would have been much easier to pull up to a resort or hotel. All my doubts went away the minute we unloaded and got settled. In no time at all, my boys were covered in dirt. There is something so precious about seeing a 3 year old play in the dirt with his friends. I know that my sons will be bonded with these friends that they have camped with for years to come.
It was so relaxing to sit around the campfire with family and friends, drinking wine and telling stories. It makes me realize how I rely on the tv or computer way too much. The quality time of just talking is priceless. My theory on family trips is that you have to have a balance. Sure, I love staying at resorts and can spa with the best of them but it is also nice to camp. Kids need nature and it adds so much to their development. It is okay for my kids to get dirty and not have toys every second. That being said, I just booked a Hawaii trip for the fall:)
We also celebrated my twin's 3rd Birthday while we were camping. We had an impromptu pinata, that my sister brought. Next year I will probably do a party for them but it was so nice just to have an intimate setting and not have to worry about a big production. I still have to pinch myself that they are 3 years old. It seems like just yesterday, I was juggling feedings, diaper changes and baths. They have grown into active, lovable, good human beings. I love them with all of my heart. I know that they will embrace Eliassen #5 with open arms.
The end of our first trimester also lined up to our family's first camping trip. Along with a few other families, my parents, my sister, my Aunt, our nanny and her husband we set off for a State Beach site, just 20 minutes North.
The preparation was overwhelming at times. Growing up, all of our family vacations were camping. I really don't know how my parents did it with four children. They are amazing! There were definite times that I questioned, "Is all of this prep worth it?" It would have been much easier to pull up to a resort or hotel. All my doubts went away the minute we unloaded and got settled. In no time at all, my boys were covered in dirt. There is something so precious about seeing a 3 year old play in the dirt with his friends. I know that my sons will be bonded with these friends that they have camped with for years to come.
It was so relaxing to sit around the campfire with family and friends, drinking wine and telling stories. It makes me realize how I rely on the tv or computer way too much. The quality time of just talking is priceless. My theory on family trips is that you have to have a balance. Sure, I love staying at resorts and can spa with the best of them but it is also nice to camp. Kids need nature and it adds so much to their development. It is okay for my kids to get dirty and not have toys every second. That being said, I just booked a Hawaii trip for the fall:)
We also celebrated my twin's 3rd Birthday while we were camping. We had an impromptu pinata, that my sister brought. Next year I will probably do a party for them but it was so nice just to have an intimate setting and not have to worry about a big production. I still have to pinch myself that they are 3 years old. It seems like just yesterday, I was juggling feedings, diaper changes and baths. They have grown into active, lovable, good human beings. I love them with all of my heart. I know that they will embrace Eliassen #5 with open arms.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)