The Stanley Family Blog

Happy Fathers Day....

2010-06-20T07:13:00.000-07:00

6 months

2010-06-15T21:31:00.000-07:00

I am playing catch up this month. Connor is thriving. He was 16 pounds at his 6 month check up on the ninth. He had a huge growth spurt from his four month checkup, especially in length. He was 26 3/4 inches. This puts him in the 16th percentile for weight and the 51st percentile for length. We are working hard at getting back to California, we hope by September. We are sooooooo excited. Arizona has been good to us but it's not our home and Tom and I have both felt very lonely out here. It's time to come home(please if you have facebook, do not mention me coming back to CA until I have given my notice at work, thanks). I have a job lined up, but moving out of state takes time and planning, so there you go. Tom is doing great with Connor and they seem to have a great time while I am at work. I miss him like crazy but he doesn't leave my side when I am home. I also know my weaknesses and I think if I were a stay at home mother, I would go a little batty and have a lot less patience. Surprisingly enough, Tom has more patience for the crankiness than I do. I did no expect that and it is wonderful to see your husband become a great father. The following are some of Connor's milestones.
At 6 months he is....

1. Eating about the equivalent of 3 mini jars of baby food a day and 4- 8 oz bottles a day
2. Rolling and scooting all over the living room.
3.Working on sitting up without support, but only lasts about a minute.
4. In 6-9 clothes just this week, finally!
5. On the verge of moving on to size 3 diapers.
6. Sleeping 10-12 hours at night
7. Taking three naps a day(1-2 hours)
8. Loving the pool with mama
9. Still the easiest baby ever, I can take him anywhere.
10 Just starting to cry at strangers if they are too loud or get to close, but only on rare occasion.
11. Looking a LOT like his dad.

I have decided to make Connor's baby food. So far I have had success at applesauce, blueberry applesauce, squash, yams, pears, blackberry pear, green beans, and carrots. He likes it all so far. I freeze the pureed food into silicone ice cube trays and then put them in freezer bags. I posted a picture above. Sorry this update took a while. I promise to do better. If anyone wants to come see us in Arizona we welcome visitors and you only have a few months to do it!

5 months

2010-06-15T21:25:00.000-07:00

This is just a catch up blog for Connor's five month picture, here he is in all his cuteness. Taken just after my first Mother's day.

4 months!

2010-04-20T11:29:00.001-07:00

I waited too long to post this one. Connor was 4 months on the 9th. His 4 month appointment was on the 13th. He weighed 12 lbs and 12 ounces and 23.8 inches long. He is in the 49th percentile for height and the 10th percentile for weight but he is climbing the charts slowly. He is perfectly healthy which I could not be more grateful for. We experimented with cereal today, but I don't believe in pushing solids too early, so we are taking it very slow. He did seem to enjoy the new experience and it looks like he will like solids which is great. I plan to make our own baby food so we shall see how that goes. Work is going well, I miss him like crazy but Tom is a great dad and three days a week is not bad if you have to work full time. Tom and I are getting away this weekend, I am meeting up with family and he is seeing some good friends of ours we don't see often enough. Connor is laughing, babbling, and sleeping 6 hours his first stretch, then another three or so. We love him to pieces and he is the best form of entertainment ever! Enjoy the pics from his first cereal feeding today..too cute!

3 months!

2010-03-21T18:32:00.000-07:00

This is a few weeks late, but what can I say, babies keep you busy! Connor turned three months on the ninth. We happened to be in CA for his blessing that weekend. It was a very beautiful day and I know it was a very special day for Tom. Connor was such a trooper being passed around like a football. We got to visit with most of our family and friends who we have missed so much. Connor got so loved on he came back with a little cold, nothing serious, but we are all battling it now. His doctor visit is not until next month but I got on the scale with him and am guesstimating he is 11.5 pounds. He just moved up to size 2 diapers today, is still in 0-3 month clothes but fits in to 1 or two things from his 3-6 wardrobe. His sleeping is still not regular. Some nights he does six, night before last he did seven and scared me to death. But I would say four in the first stretch is about average, then he is good about going down for another 2-3, sometimes twice. He is growing and changing so much. He can sit up with support and is grasping at his toys. He laughs and coos and mimics. He is a GREAT baby. We couldn't have asked for better. P.S. He LOVES his BUMPO chair, doesn't he look like such a big boy sitting up?

2 months old!

2010-02-09T17:00:00.000-08:00

Connor is the joy we knew he would be. Not a completely content baby, but I wouldn't call him fussy either. Tom and I work great as a team, since I like to go to bed early and get up early and he likes to stay up late and sleep in. Because of this, we both get at least six to eight hours each night. Nursing Connor has finally become like clockwork. But I have found I do not like to nurse all day long, so I pump and bottle feed half the time, this gives Tom a chance to bond with him too. His two month checkup was today and he was 9 pounds 5 ounces and 22 inches long. The doctor called him petite, but growing well and hitting all his milestones. The only little hiccup is that he favors sleeping with his head turned to the right, causing a slight misshape to the back of his head, The doctor says if we are persistent in putting him on his left, it should self correct in a matter of weeks. Their little skulls are still so soft. I go back to work Thursday and I am sooo sad. But nine weeks was a great chunk of time to be at home with my baby and I am so glad I got to do it. Tom is a GREAT dad. Even better than I knew he would be. He is so patient and loves his son so much. He will be a great stay at home dad. The picture above was Sunday all dolled up for church.

Connor's Birth

2009-12-30T16:00:00.000-08:00

So the big day came on December 9th, 7:34 PM and not at all like I had hoped, but we are all well and healthy and for that I am grateful. We had checked in on the 8th at 9 PM to be induced. I was in my room by 10:00 PM. After getting hooked up to monitors, the doctor placed the cervadil around 11:00. PM. I was pre warned some women go into labor with cervadil, but the majority do not and I was encouraged to sleep while I could. Well, that was not in the cards. By midnight I was in labor. It was tolerable like most early labor is, but enough discomfort to keep me awake all night. By 7 AM I was vomiting and wanting an epidural. I tried to hold out, but I was only dilated to a 2-3 and I knew I had a long way to go and the pain was going to get worse before it got better. So by 9 AM after two attempts, my epidural was placed and they broke my water. The epidural was heaven. The only problem was it wore off by 1 PM. Just as it was wearing off, I also started having an excruciating headache which after a visit from anaesthesia was determined to be a spinal headache from the epidural. The anaesthesiologist tried several times injecting more medicine in my epidural to get me some relief, but nothing worked and the pain from the spinal headache made it hard to stay on top of my contractions. All of this led to IV pain medication mostly to control the headache which made me drowsy but very much aware of the contractions. By 4:30 PM I was dilated to a 6 and although in a lot a pain, the progress I had made encouraged me to keep going. At 6:30 the doctor came back and checked me again. I was still a 6, and Connor's head was a minus one station still. He felt that his head was not going to descend and recommended a C-section I was in so much pain and was vomiting off and on that by that point it did not take much convincing, I was so done. From there it was fast and kind of hazy. Once in the OR it took a while to get me numb due to the crappy epidural. But I was able to watch the birth in the reflection of the OR lights. Connor came easily and screamed before they even pulled him out. I cried and Tom rushed over to see him. They brought him to me and let me kiss him and Tom held him, then it was off to nursery to get weighed and measured. He weighed in at 5 lbs 13 oz. and 17 3/4 inches, such a little peanut! I stayed an extra day in the hospital for a fever, but my recovery since has been remarkably fast. I was up and about the day after with minimal pain. It was definitely not the birth experience I had dreamed of and I am still kind of dealing with that. But once I look at my sweet boy who is so healthy it is hard to find much to be sad about. A little update from the last three weeks. Connor is now 6 lbs 13 ounces and thriving. He is a great sleeper and has a very sweet temperament. Below are pictures from the birth and the last one is from Christmas Day. He is our miracle boy and we are thrilled to have him!

Christmas Day!

Week 38

2009-12-02T14:31:00.000-08:00

My last prego pose! We check in on Tuesday night for our induction. In the meantime I am doing everything I can to help nature along so I can possibly avoid being induced. I am already 1 centimeter dilated and 60 percent effaced, so that's better than nothing. Long walks, warm baths, etc. My emotions are a little out of control. I mean with my baby coming any day and Christmas music and commercials, forget it! I cry often and for no reason whatsoever. I am really enjoying pregnancy this last week, but I am ready. I can't wait to hold my little man in my arms. Tom is getting pumped too. He picked out Connor's first stocking today, and can't wait to put him in this Christmas onesie he found(skull in a Santa hat:) There will be no more posts for a little while probably. Once we get settled with our new family member, I will post pictures. My coworkers threw me an impromptu shower which was beyond generous. Those of you who haven't gotten thank yous yet, you are not forgotten, they ARE coming. I am a facebook junkie, so if you are not in my family phone call tree, you can keep up with when Connor arrives that way. This 6 year journey is coming to a close and we couldn't be more thrilled and grateful.

Week 36 and 37

2009-11-24T10:30:00.000-08:00

Sorry for skipping a week. It has as you can imagine been busy here getting ready for the baby. Everything is set up and ready to go. Last minute tidying is the only chore left. The baby has graduated from a crenshaw melon in week 36 to a watermelon this week. My ultrasound last week measured Connor at 5 pounds 7 ounces, so he should be pushing six pounds this week. We completed our birthing classes and got to tour the rooms. Every appointment passes with Connor looking great. My appointment today was quite exciting. I have an induction date scheduled for the 8th of December. Only 2 weeks from today:) That being said we almost headed to the hospital last night. I had contractions for about 4 hours that got to be 5 minutes apart, just as I was considering heading in, they started getting further apart and then eventually went away. The Dr. today said that was a good sign this late in the game and that I could quite possibly have him before the eighth. They didn't check me today for dilation, they tend to be conservative with cervical checks due to increased infection risk. For a Dr.'s office, they do like to let things run their natural course as much as safely possible, which I like. Anyhow, I will post a belly shot next week, and it will probably be the last:(

Week 35 and getting ready for baby.

2009-11-10T10:29:00.001-08:00

Baby boy is about the size of a honeydew melon this week. This was a busy week for us. We picked a pediatrician, installed our car seat, assembled our pack 'n' play, assembled both strollers(travel system and umbrella), had two doctors appointments, and we are going to our second birthing class tonight. A few weeks ago I washed all the clothes and hung them up. The only thing really left to do is pack a hospital bag and wait :) I thought it would be more crowded in our one bedroom apartment, but everything seems to have a place. Still I can't wait to put up the crib in February when we move to our two bedroom. For now we have a beautiful bassinet in the bedroom handed down from my cousin and the pack 'n' play for the living room. The doctor did my beta strep test today and checked for dilation. The baby definitely dropped last week, his head was very low, but my cervix is still high and closed, which is good. We don't want him coming too early :) About 3 more weeks of work and I am off the hook!

Week 34

2009-11-03T14:31:00.000-08:00

The baby is the size of a cantaloupe and boy howdy can I feel it. I am very short waisted, so he spends his time under my ribcage making it hard to sit and especially lean forward. I only have 4-6 weeks left!. Most likely no more than 5 though because my doctor told me today she would like to see me deliver by 40 weeks and not a day over. Although my blood pressure has been perfect throughout, keeping me pregnant past 39 weeks she feels would only be tempting fate with my history of high blood pressure. I had another perfect non stress test today. Tonight is our first birthing class. Next week is my beta strep test and first dilation check. It''s going to fly now! We feel so blessed with how well everything has gone so far and we can't wait to hold him in our arms.

Week 32 and 33

2009-10-27T20:38:00.000-07:00

Wowie, sorry for the delay in posting but It has been a busy few weeks. Last week the baby was this the size of a jicima and this week he is over 4 pounds and the size of a pineapple. Tom and I were in CA for a week and everyday was packed with activities. My shower was the 17th and thank you to my family for making it such a great day. My sister Becky threw it for me at her sister in law's house but it was truly a family effort that made it so nice and relaxing. Below are pictures from the day I never thought I would have :) My cake was awesome and so yummy, it was chocolate with bavarian cream/chocolate chip filling. We hit pay dirt and got lots of really nice and generous things. Thank yous will be arriving soon.

I had my doctors appointment today and the doctor was really impressed with how well everything looked. My urine was perfect(gross I know but I have had ketones in the past so I am always a bit nervous about that). My blood pressure was good. Today was my first non-stress test. The baby looked awesome. He was sleeping when I first got hooked up, but they woke him up with this little buzzer held to my belly and then he couldn't settle down. I almost felt sorry for the little guy. Anyway the tracing was perfect. The doctor actually sat down with me for about ten minutes while I was on the monitor and just kept saying how great the baby looked. I am now on twice a week monitoring, so I go back Friday. We started organizing the apartment today, but it will take a few weeks. Nesting has definitely kicked in and I am anxious to be all ready for his arrival. Any how, I will see ya next week, 5-7 weeks left!!!!

Week 31

2009-10-12T22:01:00.000-07:00

The baby is about the size of four navel oranges this week. A lot of the same. Tired, nauseous, but I love feeling him move and talking to him. I am starting to feel huge. My shower is Saturday and I can't wait to visit with my family and friends in person instead of the internet and phone. I am taking about 8 days off work and relaxing. I really need the break. Next weeks blog should contain baby shower pics!!

Week 30

2009-10-06T14:32:00.000-07:00

3/4 done! He is the size of a cabbage. Sorry I made you wait a day, but yesterday I was exhausted and I promise it's worth it because I have pictures. I had my doctors appointment today and they surprised me with some 3D images. It was a long ultrasound. Baby boy is measuring 3 pounds 5 ounces, right on target. Something the tech saw about his intestines made two doctors come and take a look themselves, but all ended well and there is nothing to be concerned about, he is looking perfect. I am ready for this kid, not much else going on. When I get back from my shower the end of October I will have to go to the doctor twice a week until delivery. Once to measure fluid and once to do a non stress test, I guess that's routine in a high risk office. It should keep me busy at least. 8-10 weeks left, I am hoping more like 8:)

Week 29

2009-09-28T19:12:00.000-07:00

This week the baby is the size of a butternut squash. He should be approaching three pounds soon also. I saw the nurse practitioner last Tuesday. His heart rate was perfect and his movement has picked right back up. I guess he was having a couple of lazy days :) He is getting the hiccups quite often and I am up every 2 hours to pee. My next appointment is the 6th and I will have an ultrasound that day to check his size and to see if he is head down yet. I am looking forward to my shower in October(thank you Becky and family) and to catching up with all the family and friends I have missed sharing this time with. Know I love you all. I am still feeling blah. Even though I am just 7 months, I am ready for it to be over. Pregnancy has been an experience I always wanted and I will always remember, but I am so ready for the next chapter. I am a little nervous being responsible for a newborn, but everyone does it and I guess we will too. Tom has been very strong and confident. He has really stepped it up this pregnancy and been a major support. I am so grateful for him. Until next week.

Week 28

2009-09-21T22:39:00.000-07:00

7 months preggo and the third trimester is finally here! This week the baby is the size of a Chinese cabbage. Tomorrow is my next doctors appointment and should be a routine visit. In two weeks I get another ultrasound to check the baby's growth and position. I pick up a few little things every time I am out and now have enough diapering supplies for about a month. The baby has not been quite as active this week as previously and I am hoping it is just because he is getting bigger and running out of room:) I can't believe it... the countdown until D-day has started!

Week 27

2009-09-14T14:50:00.000-07:00

This week the baby is about the size of a head of cauliflower. My doctors appointment on Tuesday went great. I am still a few pounds below my pre pregnancy weight and the nurse practitioner was very pleased with that. I go every 2 weeks now. My glucose tolerance test was normal, so no gestational diabetes..yay! As difficult as it was for us to conceive, I am very pleased with what an un-eventful pregnancy it has been so far. This little boy's kicks have gotten stronger and he remains very active. Tom and I both were watching TV the other day and saw a commercial for Barbie and the Three Musketeers and we both said aloud at the same time.."thank goodness we are having a boy". It was pretty funny. I recently watched a documentary "The Business of Being Born". If you haven't seen it, it is quite eye opening. I know all documentaries have somewhat of an agenda, but being a nurse I know a lot of what is in that movie to be true. I know I cant have a completely natural birth because of my high risk category, but it has motivated me to try to keep interventions to a minimum if possible. Mostly avoiding pitocin is my goal. I would love my labor to progress naturally. I am going to attempt no epidural, but the world is paved with good intentions and if I can't do it, I can't do it. Next week I hit my third trimester and then the countdown begins :)

Week 26

2009-09-07T21:00:00.000-07:00

I am nearing the end of my second trimester and the baby is the size of an English hothouse cucumber(OK whatever). I am just starting to get a bit uncomfortable, especially at the end of the day after being on my feet. This little boy is still moving around a ton and I still love it! I have my last second trimester appointment tomorrow. We have talked about the birth more and there are a few people we would love to have there, but when you do that, it opens a can of worms. So we have decided to have it just be Tom and myself. This has been such a long painful journey for us and now it is over. I really am excited about the two of us being able to relish the moment together alone. Afterwards, come one come all. Arizona is beautiful in December:)

Week 25

2009-08-31T08:39:00.000-07:00

I am 25 weeks today, only three more weeks until I hit my third trimester! The baby is roughly the size of medium eggplant. He weighs between 1.5-2 pounds. He is still a very active little guy, but tends to settle down when I want to go to bed like a good boy and opposite from what I have been told by other moms. Most say their babies are quiet until they want to rest. I still am dealing with nausea and I think it's just going to be that way until he is born. I have only gained about 4 pounds back and still haven't reached my pre-pregnancy weight which is a good thing. My next OB appointment is next Tuesday. Another glucose tolerance test-yum:( . I have 15 weeks to go and only 3 months until I am considered full term. We can't wait to meet him.

Week 24

2009-08-24T21:53:00.000-07:00

VIABILITY! That's the big milestone this week. The baby is the length of an ear of corn and about 1.3 pounds. If this little one decided to make an entrance today, which I am grateful he hasn't, he might be able to survive outside the womb. Not to sound morbid, but it is a very comforting thought that if something were to happen he has a chance. Nothing really else to report. Work is getting harder and I can't seem to get much else done on my days off except rest up for the next workday. Time will fly. I have already scheduled my week off for my shower. After that I am back at work for a month and a half and then hello maternity leave!!! This little boy is so active and always squirming. Tom felt the baby move this last week. We both laughed, it was such a surreal moment. Until next week :)

Week 23

2009-08-17T20:33:00.000-07:00

Baby boy Stanley is over a pound now and the length of a papaya. Can I just say I love the second trimester so far. I still deal with nausea(controlled with my Zofran) and I have a picky appetite, but everything else is fabulous. I love watching my belly grow. I love feeling him move around in there. What I love most is that in 4 months I will be holding him in my arms. I saw my belly wiggle with a kick for the first time this week. I am registering for our birthing classes next week. I can not believe how fast the time is going. I still am in awe that I am actually pregnant. Like I am really incubating a little human. It is such an incredible feeling after so many years of disappointment. Tom and I did a little baby shopping at the mall last week and I totally started crying. It was a moment I had always imagined and I couldn't believe be were at that point. Tom was just happy. He is really getting into having a boy. My house will be full of Transformers and GI Joes I am sure. I go to the doc tomorrow for my 6 month check up. I think appointments will then increase to every 2-3 weeks. In 7th heaven.

Week 22

2009-08-10T21:43:00.000-07:00

I am officially in my sixth month! Baby boy is almost a foot long, about the size of a spaghetti squash. Things have been going fairly well. As long as I have my Zofran, I can eat pretty well. My biggest problem has been getting enough fluids down. My doctor has sent me a few times over the last couple of months for IV fluids due to ketones in my urine. When I am at work I can't keep water out due it being a treatment area(OSHA guidelines). If I need to drink water I need to leave the floor, and we all know how often nurses get to take breaks. All of this plus the nausea I have been dealing with leads to me getting dehydrated at times. But I try to chug as much water as I can when I can and on my days off. Despite this baby boy Stanley is doing very well. He is moving a ton and started bouncing on my bladder this week, but I love it love it love it. I can not believe how the time is flying. We brought back the crib and bassinet from California we had been handed down that was in storage. It still amazes me we are going to get to use them :) My incredible in-laws got us our car seat and stroller travel system, the picture is below. That is about all for this week. I can not wait for this little boy!

Week 21

2009-08-03T11:42:00.000-07:00

The baby is the length of a carrot this week and nearly a pound now. I have been feeling a ton of movement which I can't even begin to describe the joy that brings me. Still no weight gain, in my case that is OK because the baby measured right on target at the ultrasound. I actually might stay within my 10 pound recommendation, which is great. I have been told I need to register for my birthing classes soon because they fill up....things are moving way too fast! I am feeling much better, still some nausea, but no puking..yay! See you with next weeks update.

Week 20

2009-07-27T20:40:00.000-07:00

The baby is the size of a cantaloupe this week. I am halfway through this thing and I am EXCITED! I felt the baby move this last week which was a moment I have been waiting for for what feels like forever, it was awesome. He gets really bouncy after I eat and feels like a goldfish flopping around. My nausea has been tolerable and I am now beginning to believe I may like being pregnant after all :) We have about three names picked out and we decided we won't decide until we see him. I am still in awe everyday that I have been given this miracle boy...we love him to pieces already.

Ladies and Gentleman...

2009-07-21T13:31:00.001-07:00

Week 19

2009-07-20T19:54:00.000-07:00

The baby is now the size of a mango, and we hopefully find out the sex tomorrow! Last week I had a 24 hour period where I couldn't keep any thing down, so my doctor sent me to the hospital for IV fluids. Luckily I am far enough along that I didn't have to go through ER, they sent me strait up to OB triage. That was not a whole lot of fun, but after being pumped up with 2 liters of fluid and a prescription for Zofran, I am a new woman. I can actually eat and drink and somewhat enjoy it which is awesome. Any woman out there, do not hesitate asking for the drugs. There is no shame. Zofran is completely safe in pregnancy and there is no need to be miserable 24/7. It's not good for you or the baby. I am only sorry I waited so long. Anyhow... yup tomorrow is the big appointment. We plan on going to our ultrasound, making a few calls then lunch and a little baby shopping and registering, it should be a great day. Stay tuned for an announcement tomorrow:)

A few days ago...excuse the frown I was quite nauseous, Tom sure knows how to capture the moment LOL!

Week 18

2009-07-13T20:01:00.000-07:00

I am now in my 5th month...nutso! The baby is now the size of a sweet potato. The only thing I have to report is sick sick and more sick. I don't know how much more of this nausea/vomiting I can handle. Good thing I see the doctor next Tuesday, maybe he will have some suggestions. I have lost the few pounds I gained a few weeks ago, which makes my total loss at about 10-12 pounds. It is concerning me I haven't put on any weight, but the belly is gettin bigger. I think I feel flutters at times, but nothing for sure. Tune in next week for the gender reveal and maybe another prego pic!

Week 17

2009-07-06T19:45:00.000-07:00

The baby is the size of an onion this week. I had a good week last week as far as nausea goes, I hope it's a trend. My belly is feeling much fuller these days and along with that comes slight aches and pains, but I actually love starting to feel pregnant. Two more weeks until the gender reveal! There is not much else going on. I haven't had any recent doctor appointments. I try to rest when I can and naps on my day off are my new best friend. Approaching the halfway point!!!

Week 16

2009-06-29T09:25:00.000-07:00

I am now 16 weeks and the baby is the size of an avocado. Apparently starting this week the baby will be in a major growth spurt until I hit the third trimester. It's amazing how fast the time is starting to go. My next big milestone I can't wait to hit is 24 weeks, at that point if anything were to happen, the baby has a chance of making it outside the womb. I don't anticipate this, but it will be a nice reassurance. Three more weeks until the big ultrasound and the big reveal, pink or blue? What do you think? I am leaning towards boy, but I will be tickled to have a girl. Miracle of miracles we have decided on a boy's name. I debated whether to share it and I figured what the heck. If our baby is a boy his name will be Lucas Quentin. We both really like it and that was half the battle. As for girls names, we are completely deadlocked. I love Regan, but it's a little too different for Tom. I could pull the mommy card and force it, but I don't want him hating his daughter's name, so the search continues. Not much to report, I have not felt the baby move yet. They say anytime between now and 20 weeks, possibly even a little longer since it's my first. I can't wait for that. I know now that I am getting farther along the weekly updates may be getting a little monotonous, but they are more for me as a way of journaling the pregnancy. My good old friends nausea and vomiting are still here and I am beginning to think they plan on staying a while. I can't believe what a miracle this baby is. He/she will be spoiled rotten.

Week 15

2009-06-22T21:04:00.000-07:00

The baby is the size of an orange this week. Not too much too report. I saw my OB this week and the heartbeat was a perfect 155. My blood pressure was good. I have only gained 1 pound of the original 10 I lost. My goal is to gain no more than ten pounds from pre pregnancy weight, so that gives me 19 more pounds to work with. We shall see If I succeed. It was such a successful appointment that my Dr. said he doesn't need to see me until I'm 19 weeks. At that appointment we will hopefully find out the sex-YAY! I am still trying to deal with the nausea and vomiting. People who know me know I love food, so I miss enjoying mealtime. Now it is more of a hassle trying to figure out what I can tolerate. Oh well. I am enjoying watching my belly grow and I am letting myself begin to make plans for the new arrival. P.S. Naming this kid is proving difficult. Tom is more conservative with his choices, while I like something a little more different, not weird, just not ultra common.

Week 14

2009-06-15T16:53:00.000-07:00

Every week that passes is such huge deal to me. I can hardly believe I am one week into my second trimester. The baby is the size of a lemon now. I am posting my first belly pic today. I'm not getting a lot bigger, just changing shape. My tummy is becoming much rounder than it used to be. I passed my glucose tolerance test with flying colors and my NT scan was very normal which means no increased risk of downs syndrome. I see the doc tomorrow for my routine OB appointment, other than that thing have been great. Still having some nausea...blah blah blah...but it is definitely improving. We will find out the sex in 5 weeks! Ta ta for now.

Week 13

2009-06-08T12:53:00.000-07:00

Not only is today our 7th wedding anniversary but I am also breathing a huge sigh of relief today. I have officially made it to my second trimester with everything looking well and healthy. This week the baby is the size in length of a peach. I had my first glucose tolerence test today and that was no fun-yuck. We had our NT scan today. I was amazed at the photo we got below, So much detail and he or she is so developed already. I am still battling nausea and vomiting but if that goes along with this beatiful baby, I'll take it. My next OB appointment is next week at 14 weeks. I should have the NT results then but I am not anticipating anything other than normal results. Thank you to everyone for your continued prayers and support.

Week 12

2009-06-01T19:26:00.000-07:00

Well, I made it to twelve weeks and am so happy, I just can't contain it! The baby is the size(in length) of a plum and this is the last week of my first trimester! My NT scan got postponed until next Monday(our 7th wedding anniversary!), so next week I should have some baby pics. My blood type is O- and since I had an episode of bleeding a few weeks ago, I got my Rogam shot this week. No more weight loss, I have lost a total of 10 pounds, not a lot, but a it's a little perk from being sick. I haven't gained any either, just holding steady the last week and a half or so which is fine with me. I can tell my tummy is poking out a bit more, but no one else would think twice at this point. Maybe next month I will post a belly shot...we shall see. I am so over the first trimester as LOVELY as it was. On to bigger and better things. Still getting sick a couple times a week, hoping that it is gone soon. Peace out.

Week 11

2009-05-25T07:29:00.000-07:00

Not too much to report, a lot of the same. The baby is now the size of a lime. We decided to do the nuchal scan next Tuesday but we declined the blood screening and amnio. The blood test is too often inaccurate for my liking and an amnio is too invasive, so we just went with the scan that measures the thickness of the baby's neck. It is supposed indicate a possibility of downs syndrome if the neck measures thick. It is a standard test that almost all women are offered now and it is one more opportunity to see the baby, so I took it :) I am still getting sick but the days are getting fewer and farther between thank goodness. The second trimester is right around the corner!

P.S. I found this little gem of Tom with our niece Mary, isn't it the best!

For your viewing pleasure...OK mostly mine :)

2009-05-19T14:27:00.000-07:00

He/She was really hopping around today and looking more and more like a baby every week.

Week10

2009-05-18T07:01:00.000-07:00

Well I am officially 1/4 of the way through! The baby is the size of a kumquat and is officially a baby not an embryo anymore. It has all it's organs and moving all arms and legs. There has been no more bleeding since last Wednesday's incident, thank goodness. I am still sick as a dog, which I consider a blessing. I thought perhaps I was getting a bit better until yesterday when I couldn't keep anything down all day. I have another ultrasound tomorrow to check on the baby again. Hopefully I will have another pic to post tomorrow. I am in shock and trilled I have made it to the double digits, about 2 more weeks and I am out of the first trimester :)

Hit a hiccup.

2009-05-14T20:16:00.000-07:00

First off the baby is fine, but we had a scary day yesterday. I was at work and as I was walking to my desk I started bleeding a lot. Luckily I have a very supportive work environment who found me coverage within 20 minutes. A co worker drove me to the doctor where Tom met me. An ultrasound was done and showed the baby looked perfect. They are not sure why I bled because the ultrasound showed nothing unusual. I am off work until the bleeding stops which it almost has and I have a repeat ultrasound on Tuesday. The doctor said it is not uncommon in the first trimester and they will watch me but he is hopeful the pregnancy will continue. Just keep a little prayer for our peanut.

Week 9

2009-05-11T11:27:00.000-07:00

I have ultrasound photos to share today. This week the baby is the size of a green olive. We had our first OB appointment today and I graduated from who-ha ultrasounds to belly ultrasounds, YAY! We heard the heartbeat and I bawled like a baby. I am still extremely nauseated but dealing with it. My doctor sat down with us today for about 30 min and we went over our plan for this pregnancy. While everything is looking good, he will be following me closely. He wants me to only gain 10 pounds from pre pregnancy weight and since I have lost about six, I am on the right track for now. He was very patient and courteous but also very real that this pregnancy carries with it some risks. One day at a time I guess. Since I am in a high risk office, I get a quickie ultrasound every time I go, which is awesome. Our next big decision is whether to do any of the genetic abnormality screening tests. We are leaning toward no for various reasons. I meet with the nurse practitioner next Tuesday for more early pregnancy instruction.

See the arms in the top pic? They are to the left and right in the middle of our blob-baby.

Heart Rate 180!

Week 8

2009-05-03T20:07:00.000-07:00

Here I am 8 weeks pregnant! The baby is now the size of a raspberry. I am so grateful, I have now been pregnant longer than my last pregnancy which is a huge milestone. Another good thing(kinda) is that I have been really sick. I feel like I have the stomach flu from the minute I open my eyes in the morning until I fall asleep at night. I won't lie, it's a little emotionally and physically draining but whatever it takes I can handle it. I have my first OB appointment next Monday when I am nine weeks and I will get another ultrasound then. I am nervous and excited. That's whats going on this week. Can't believe it :)

First Ultrasound

2009-04-28T09:49:00.000-07:00

The big reveal! We are having one perfect looking baby!! We saw the heartbeat today and we couldn't be more thrilled! Thank you for all of your prayers past and present. I will not totally relax until I hit twelve weeks, but this was a very reassuring ultrasound. The sac and baby are measuring right on target.

Week 7

2009-04-27T15:59:00.000-07:00

I have a blueberry baby! I am now seven weeks with a baby the size of a blueberry and my ultrasound is tomorrow. We shall see if one or two little Stanleys will be joining our family. I am a little nervous, it's only natural after losing the heartbeat on a previous pregnancy. But I am very hopeful also. This pregnancy has been 100 percent different. I have not had one piece of bad news so far and I don't anticipate any tomorrow. The morning sickness really picked up this last week and has been pretty bad but I am grateful for it. It's an indicator everything is doing what it should. Look for tomorrow's big reveal!

Week 6

2009-04-19T19:05:00.000-07:00

I am six weeks pregnant today! I now feel officially pregnant and not just "a little pregnant". The baby is the size of a cute little sweet pea this week. I have to wait one more week until my ultrasound, luckily my mom is in town to keep me occupied. I have had a few days of nausea, but also have good days in between. I actually like it when I am nauseous, it reminds me everything is going well. I am stressing about finding an OB now. It can't be just anyone because I am not just your average pregnant lady. I want someone who understands how long this has taken us and how much we have invested. Arizona is not known for their health care, but as a nurse I know a good doctor can be found in any corner of the country if you look hard enough. I am thinking of delivering at Banner Good Samaritan in Phoenix. They have the high level NICU and all that good jazz. Anyway, that's the report for this week. Next weeks will be a whole lot more interesting with the ultrasound photo!

Second HCG level!!!!!

2009-04-16T16:21:00.000-07:00

It took a while to get my beta HCG results but here we go. My level should be above 1600, and my level was 2632!!!!!! I can't believe it. That makes that a doubling time of about 42 hours instead of the normal 48. I am well on my way to being a mommy and I couldn't be more thrilled. FYI-my levels are slightly high, so it could be twins....yikes!

Week 5

2009-04-14T18:37:00.000-07:00

I am now into week five and the baby is now the size of an apple seed ;) Things seem to be going well still. Being the CRAZY pregnant lady I am, I took another home test last week and it was immediately positive and dark, so I know my levels are going up. How much is the question. HCG levels are supposed to double every 48 hours, so if I was 111 last Tuesday when I go in tomorrow they should be around 1600. I am on pins and needles. I won't get the result until Thursday, again more waiting. Such is life. But I feel well, a little tiny bit of nausea/heartburn, nothing I can't handle. I am staying positive and I think that is part of our success so far. Love you all.

Blood draw.

2009-04-07T14:07:00.000-07:00

I got the result from my blood pregnancy test. The level was a perfect 111. I have another HCG level next Wednesday and our first ultrasound on April 28th where we will see the heartbeat or heartbeats(good gosh!). This week the baby is the size of a poppy seed. Stay tuned.

Oh what a beautiful sight.

2009-04-03T19:14:00.000-07:00

Holy Crap!!!

2009-04-03T08:47:00.000-07:00

I got two pink lines yesterday on a pregnancy test. Today it's a little darker but still pretty light. This is great news but only the beginning of about a thousand milestones, so I am still hesitant in getting too excited. The blood work on Tuesday will confirm it and then another recheck to make sure the HCG continues to rise, so until then keep our little baby(s) in your prayers. According to my calander I am 3 weeks and 4 days..... wow that was cool to write :)

Babies are in!

2009-03-28T08:29:00.000-07:00

The two with black arrow's are the one's they transferred:)

Waiting on the doctor.

The day of the transfer went really well. We got to see and keep the pictures of our little babes, which was just awesome! We met with our doctor and decided to follow his suggestion of transferring 2 embryos instead of 3 because of their perfect quality. He said transferring 3 would not increase my chances of getting pregnant, only getting pregnant with multiples. So on to the treatment room we went where I lay in wait with a very FULL bladder. Funny little story, the embryology lab is connected to the treatment room by a tiny little window that opens and closes. While Tom and I were waiting for the doctor, the embryologist kept opening the door and peeking in, It was kinda creepy, but I'm assuming she was checking to see if the doctor was there yet.

The doctor came in and after shooting the breeze with Tom a bit and comparing what applications they had on their I-Phone's(they both had the shotgun.....*sigh*) we got down to business. The two embryos were transferred together(the doc said they were holding hands :) without a hitch and I had to lay another hour before going home. I was on bed rest for two days, which about drove me batty. I am up and about, but taking it very easy and I do not have to go back to work until Tuesday.

I find out later today how many of the other embryos survived until today so they can be frozen. They can not freeze them until the 5th day after fertilization because they would not be strong enough otherwise. My blood pregnancy test is not until 4/7/09, so now some more waiting. I guess I will have to keep myself distracted.

The big day.

2009-03-25T18:55:00.000-07:00

More good news! The nurse called this morning to say all seven embryos are growing and doing what they should. They gave them grades based on their quality. There are 3 A's(the best!) and 4 B's. No "bad" looking embryos!!! I will be on bed rest starting tomorrow after the transfer for three days, so I will not be able to update my blog :( But I can update my status on facebook from my phone, so that's something. I can't believe this day is here. I will post a picture of our little "embies" as soon as I can. We are soooo excited!

Fertilization Report.

2009-03-24T13:51:00.000-07:00

We got the fertilization report today and it's GOOD news! Out of the nine eggs that were retrieved, seven were mature and out of those seven, ALL of them fertilized normally! Many have asked, "Are you going to transfer all 7?" The answer to that is "Are you nuts?" We will decide with our doctor on Thursday morning before the transfer how many to implant. It will depend largely on the quality of the embryos at that time. Most likely 2-3 will be transferred. That's the word for now. Peace out.

We have eggs!

2009-03-23T10:21:00.000-07:00

Nine eggs to be exact! We checked in at 6:45 this morning. I got dolled up in lovley surgical garb. I then got some very nice drugs and the next thing I remember is the nurse practitioner telling me they got nine eggs and going over discharge instructions. I was only there an hour and a half total. Tomorrow we get the fertilization report. I had a great experience and the discomfort has been minimal. Enjoy a few pics we documented from our BIG day! P.S. Blog is back to black, any other color annoys me after a while.

Getting ready!

Nice nurse took a picture.

Yay! 9 eggs~Recovering after.

That Versed is some good stuff.."What's the street name for this?"

Follie Check

2009-03-19T14:17:00.000-07:00

Because I am always so excited and nervous at my ultrasounds, I always forget to ask for a print out. But this is exactly like what I saw on the screen today. My doctor seems to think he will be able to retrieve all 10 eggs on my right ovary and a possible 1-2 on my left. This is fabulous news. I was going to consider myself lucky if I could get 6. I have responded better than anyone expected to the medication. I think it has a lot to do with the DHEA I was on for a few months leading up to this. I am feeling good, I am starting to feel pressure in my lower abdomen. I can definitely tell something is happening. I may even have extra embryos to freeze and save! Retrieval is looking to be a little sooner than expected, possibly Monday! I see the Dr. everyday until the retrieval now, so stay posted. It won't be long now!

Luckiest girl in the world.

2009-03-10T15:46:00.000-07:00

IVF meds $5000, IVF $9000, Insurance covering all of it = PRICELESS

Good first appointment.

2009-03-02T11:13:00.000-08:00

When going through infertility treatments it is a culmination of high highs and low lows. Today was our initial appointment and it was a good day. Things looked great. The nurse practitioner saw me today which was awesome, because I obviously think nurses are awesome. She took the needed cultures to make sure I am not harboring any bacteria that could reduce our chances of conception. She also decided to do an ultrasound to look at my uterus and do an antral count. An antral count is where they count the follicles(which contain the eggs) before they start stimulating them to see about how many we may be working with. They like to see at least seven, well I had a whopping 12 just on my right side. That's the biggest antral count I have ever had. I think the DHEA I have been on may be working. Anyway, they drew blood from Tom and myself and I actually don't need to go back until the 13th for the mock transfer and medication class. I start injections the 14th. I am so glad things went well and we are able to proceed.

Officially insured!

2009-03-01T07:06:00.000-08:00

My blog got a face lift, do you like it? Our active date for our benefits was yesterday. We officially have medical/dental/vision and our health flex account which makes life so much easier. I posted a new ticker for a new phase in our journey. Our first IVF appointment is Monday for cultures and routine blood work. I have one more week on the birth control pills. Then it's the big guns. It will mean about two shots every morning and evening for several weeks. My first ultrasound is March 8th, they will also do a mock transfer that day. This is so the doc knows right where to go on the big day. We anticipate the egg retrieval to be between the 24th and 27th and the embryo transfer three days later. I can't believe the time has come!!!

I thought high school was over?

2009-02-20T18:42:00.000-08:00

Sometimes I think work is just high school grown up. I honestly feel like the only adult in a sea of 40 something co-workers. I have recently been promoted to nurse manager of the clinic I am at. Lets just say the clinic I am at was in big trouble with various issues before I got there and a lot of crap has been dumped for me to clean up. While the clinic is improving, my relationships with my coworkers struggle a bit. What happened to our Grandparent's generation of of suck it up and do the work? I love the Patient Care Techs that I work with but that being aside, they drive me crazy!!!!! You try to be fair, you split work evenly, you accommodate and nothing. All I get is complaints what makes one happy pisses off another. JUST SHUT UP AND DO THE JOB!!!

New York to L.A....ahhh shucks!

2009-02-18T19:06:00.000-08:00

Yes, yes I know he's not going off the air, Conan will be taking over The Tonight Show in June. But I can't help but feel a little sad. We have watched Late night with Conan O'Brien forgoing Letterman and Leno for the most part since we've been married. We love him. His sense of humor coincides nicely with the hour it airs in which almost anything goofy makes you laugh, but on the rare occasion I have taped it and watched it later, he still cracks me up. I just hope his move from east to west coast doesn't mean a total 180 from the late night show we have come to like so much. 3 more shows of Late night With Conan O'Brien left, catch them if you can. If you don't we are now stuck with Colin Farrell....Boo.

Irony

2009-02-04T20:16:00.000-08:00

IVF a go! I find it ironic that our IVF journey starts with me having to be on birth control pills for a few weeks, which I start tomorrow! I think of all the birth control pills I took the first year we were married and it makes me laugh. Really, if I had known it would have saved me a lot of time, stress, and a little money. Anyhow! This is the first step in our IVF cycle, so I guess...yep, we are underway. Can't wait!

Read the fine print...it's not always bad :)

2009-01-23T15:58:00.000-08:00

I am now happily enrolled in my 2009 benefits package. I received an overview of my medical insurance, go ahead and look, I circled the good parts. Fine print is not always bad! I had been told by HR a while ago that IVF is covered, but it brings a huge smile to my face to actually see it in fine print. After years of wishing there were just a way to try, it's hard to believe it's here.

Eye Candy

2009-01-21T19:29:00.000-08:00

Late Birthday Surprise.

2009-01-16T14:51:00.000-08:00

Hubby surprised me with an iPod Nano for my birthday. I honestly never thought I would get one or that I ever actually wanted one. But oh how much fun I have had with it. It's perfect for me because I have commitment issues when it comes to music. I very rarely like whole albums from one artist. I tend to pick and choose a few songs that I like off of a CD and that's all I'll listen too. Now I can just download the songs I like. The only thing I can say about my style of music is that I have no particular style. I like a little of everything. You will find in my collection everything from Soul Asylum to Stevie Wonder to Justin Timberlake to Ben Folds. Thanks hubby, it's a great gift! P. S. I need a name for my new little Nano, any suggestions?

IVF schedule.

2009-01-06T15:22:00.000-08:00

I had my appointment with the IVF coordinator, Cori today. I am officially on the calender for end of March retrieval/transfer. We are super excited and can't wait to see how many embryos I can come up with. I am counting the days and I can't wait to get started. It's about a six week process, so I will be starting meds the middle of February, only 5 weeks from now! I will keep everybody updated as I hit milestones. It is going to be the most thrilling and hardest thing we have ever done. Keep us in your prayers!

Remembering

2009-01-03T17:39:00.000-08:00

It's been a week of mixed emotions. I am gearing up for in vitro in March. I have my first class on Tuesday which I am thrilled about. But I was realizing the other day a year has passed now since my miscarriage. How did a year pass so quickly? I still think about it quite often and I think it will always be with me. Like a bothersome scar that you may go weeks without noticing and then one day it's all you can concentrate on. Parts of the whole ordeal are so hazy and surreal, as if it were a dream. And others are vividly engrained. I am forever changed, but not for the worse, for the better. I am stronger. My husband and I are closer. I have more faith(although that took a bit longer to be honest). As I contemplate this new year, I am excited. I am excited to proceed with IVF and grateful for the opportunities that has enabled us to do so. I am so grateful for my friends and family and their unconditional love and support. Hoping all of you a wonderful 2009!

Cousin update

2008-12-24T19:02:00.000-08:00

Sara is getting better everyday. Here is the most recent photo. Such a cute family!

2008-12-07T19:49:00.000-08:00

Date night!

Twilight and Hot Chocolate.

2008-12-06T13:20:00.000-08:00

Thats what I'm doing this weekend, how about you?

I was bored, but still quite funny.

2008-12-04T06:51:00.001-08:00

Send your own ElfYourself eCards

Update

2008-12-02T03:47:00.000-08:00

After a month, my cousin Sara is just now starting to turn the corner. She has a few more weeks of recovery and nearly another month worth of antibiotics, but I have been told she is starting to feel she is getting her body back, which I am so grateful for. Here are some Thanksgiving pictures to enjoy.

Tis the season.

2008-11-30T21:22:00.001-08:00

We are moving two days after Christmas to our apartment a whole two flights down from where we are living now. I decided if I was to enjoy any Christmas decorations I better get a move on. so the day after Thanksgiving was spent decking the halls. I also thought it would be a good time to show off our new place. It's small but I love it. Happy Holidays everyone!

Something to report.

2008-11-20T16:21:00.000-08:00

I know it's been a while since I've given any updates on our journey to baby. The main reason being there hasn't been much to report, until now. When we decided to move to Arizona, it really didn't make a lot of sense to either one of us other than we knew in our hearts it was the right decision. We took a leap and amazing things have happened. The clinic I have been placed at by my travel company has offered me a full time position. After a call to the company's human resources department I found out they will cover our infertility expenses. I practically fell out of my chair. Ever since we were told we needed to move on to IVF we have been stuck due to the cost. We are now free to pursue our dream and see where it takes us.

My doctor and staff in front of my new clinic.

We had our first IVF consultation today and we are scheduled to proceed in March. It was wonderful getting a second opinion. Dr. Troche seems great. He was very up to date on Turner's Syndrome and even has a Turner's patient who is pregnant right now. He is very much into the latest research but also doesn't jump the gun on new treatments unless they have been well tested. I will start a new and exciting medication in a few weeks that has given promising results of "jump starting" lazy ovaries such as mine. He is very optimistic about me conceiving through IVF, although we may need to use an egg donor if I don't respond well to this fist attempt. I have come to terms with that and I don't care what genes my baby has, I just want him or her here with me. Thank you for all your support. I meet with the IVF coordinator in about a month to get the insurance ball rolling. March is going to be very intense, and I am going to miss having my family nearby, but at the same time it's all very new and exciting. More updates to come as March draws closer.

How did I miss this awesomeness?

2008-11-17T19:39:00.000-08:00

Since we moved we have acquired Netflix. We can instantly stream on our computer a variety of movies and TV. I have currently been starting with the first season of 30 Rock. How I missed this in my prime time lineup I will never know. Now I am desperately trying to catch up so I can enjoy the current season three. Even as I write I am hurrying so I can continue with the hilarity that is Tina Fey and the rest of the cast of 30 Rock. If you haven't watched it yet, do! And for The Office loyalists, I like The Office too, but I have to admit 30 Rock is just as funny without all the uncomfortableness.

Highs and Lows

2008-11-13T11:08:00.000-08:00

Lows: Keep my cousin Sara in your prayers, she is battling a pretty bad infection from the C-section. Highs: Check this kid out, isn't Mary the cutest?!!! She is I tell you!

Overdue

2008-11-07T09:53:00.000-08:00

We have had the same bath towels that we got at our wedding. They have been good to us and we have gotten much use out of them, but it is time for them to move on to towel heaven. We were way overdue for new ones and also a color change. We spent ages picking out the colors and then finding a shower curtain that went with it. Having a husband who wanted kelly green towels because the name they gave the color was Peacock made this a particular challenge. This is what we came up with. I would have gone with a babier blue, but again the husband was not thrilled about wrapping up in a baby blue towel. I still like this combo a lot. We even got some guest towels in the same shades, so come try them out if you would like :)

It's A GIRL!

2008-11-01T21:29:00.000-07:00

Mary Jade Ostler-7 pounds 3 ounces-November 1st at 8:08 PM! Mom and baby doing well after a looooong 24 hours!

Hey Tina called, she wants her glasses back.

2008-10-11T11:38:00.000-07:00

I need reading glasses. Both my parent's vision suck, so I knew this day would come and here it is. Luckily I am still fine on distance but tend to strain a bit when reading or at the computer. Tom has always needed glasses, so we went to the Optometrist right before leaving California. Our doc looked a lot like Sandra Oh, and was awesome, we will probably go back to her next year no matter where we are at. His prescription has been the same for 5 years, but I finally crossed into the land of astigmatism. I am grateful that there are at least some super cute frames to choose from now. I call these my Tina Fey glasses. I am a huge fan, so it works out. My frames are Dolce Gabbana and Tom picked out some very nice and boring Gucci frames, I wanted him to go all Buddy Holly but I couldn't talk him into it. Cute huh!

We Made It!

2008-10-03T21:31:00.000-07:00

We made it safe to Glendale, AZ. We are moved in and settled, but I am already very busy learning the ins and outs of my new job. I will post pictures of our new place later. We love our complex. It is quiet and has all the amenities anyone would want or need. Thanks to all who helped get us here especially my mother in law Mary. We couldn't have done it without you!

I Hate Goodbyes

2008-09-22T23:28:00.000-07:00

After the baby shower craziness Sara and I got dolled up to take some photos. It's the last time I will see her pregnant with little Mary, so I was a little teary. I love this chick a ton!

Sara's Demi Moore pose(you know that vougue cover:)

It's a Bobby Shower!

2008-09-22T22:47:00.000-07:00

Saturday was one of the most surreal days of my life. When did I grow up? When did I become old enough to throw a baby shower? I threw my Sara Bear a baby shower. It was three hours of lovely sandwiched between two days of chaos. I have to say though that all in all I throw a pretty darn good party. Almost all of the cousins were present. For those that don't know I come from a family of 90% females. It makes for a TON of fun. I think the highlight was the cake. Thank you Decroupet in Arcadia for doing it yet again. This cakery bakery is slowly becoming a family tradition. They did my wedding cake, Sara's bridal shower cake, Sara's Wedding cake, and now Sara's baby shower cake. It was beyond adorable and yummy too. For my sisters and step mom who couldn't make it, enjoy the pics, we missed you!

The diaper cake centerpiece
The placesettings(I stole the CD idea from my sis)
Gotta have the punchbowl(Fresca&rasberry lemonade :p)
The showstopper
The parents to be

And Off We Go!

2008-09-11T16:50:00.000-07:00

So we have finally come to a decision and the verdict is....Sun City, Arizona! We are really excited to go on our very own little adventure. Sun City is right outside Glendale and Phoenix, Glendale was home to the 2008 Superbowl, too bad we're a year late. Also the job sounds great. No Sundays, holidays, or on call shifts. I couldn't ask for more. I move out of our house on the 29th. Tom is leaving a few days earlier to store some of our things at my in-laws house in Montana. I will probably leave strait for Arizona and attempt to get settled. I knew it would happen fast and all at once. I can't believe we are doing this...yikes!

30 weeks

2008-09-06T19:48:00.000-07:00

My how the time flys! It seem just yesterday Sara announced her upcoming arrival. Then we found out a liitle girl was on it's way. Now it's only 8-10 weeks from delivery I am getting so excited to meet this litttle one. Isn't my cousin the cutest.

Trish and Dave Did It!

2008-08-19T10:45:00.000-07:00

Sunday evening was a very happy event! My sister Trish and Dave Flinn were married on a boat cruising Newport Harbor. The weather could not have been more perfect, it was a warm day with a cool ocean breeze. Trish looked amazing as usual and couldn't have looked happier. I think the highlight of the ceremony was the new family(Trish, Dave, and their two girls Gracie and Caitlin)symbolizing the union of their family with a sand ceremony. Each member poured a vial of colored sand into a single jar making it one. I am so happy for my sister who if I do say so myself knows how to pick em, Dave is awesome! I love you guys and hope you have a great honeymoon.

Link to their album, awesome pictures for an awesome day!!!!

http://www.trishreda.com/slideshows/ourwedding/

Babies at the Beach

2008-08-17T10:33:00.000-07:00

My sister Trish is getting married today! As a double bonus my other sister Becky is staying with me, along with her three rugrats who I love to pieces. Yesterday we went to the beach and let the kids break olympic records in filthiness. We had a great time and have more activities planned for the upcoming days. Husband Tom is taking off and my mom and my cousin Cheryl are coming to stay with her kids. I really wish these kids lived closer!

Gotta love car trips!
Elena..don't let the adorable face fool you!
Gabby....a princess
Lico...the heartbreaker
Gettin dirty

Come Back Bernie Mac

2008-08-10T18:53:00.000-07:00

I was very sad to hear yesterday of his passing. He was clever and witty and darn funny. I will miss you Mr. Bernie Mac.

25 Weeks or 6 monthes!

2008-07-30T21:36:00.000-07:00

Since my loverly cousin has not posted many belly shots, I will oblige. Sara has officially entered her third trimester. I can not believe how fast the time has gone by. Before we know it we will be meeting this little girl and I can't wait. Sara, you look adorable!

Be a nurse! It hase it's perks.

2008-07-25T20:10:00.000-07:00

So the big reveal.....*drum roll* We are moving! Nursing has oh so many luscious perks. After almost a year of thinking and praying "Can we? Should we? When should we?" The time has come. I have taken a job as a traveling nurse. Tom will of course be traveling with. We can go almost anywhere we want. I will probably start sometime in October and we haven't decided where we should go first. The way it works is the company I hired on with(American Mobile)contracts with hospitals all over the country. Assignments last for about 13 weeks and then you move on to somewhere else. It's another solution for hospitals to deal with the nursing shortage. We will be living rent free plus utilities and travel expenses. It is no way to live permanently, but right now it is right for our family. We can save for our infertility treatments and for a house. Tom will also have more opportunity to find a job in an area that isn't so stagnant. As soon as we decided to do it, it felt so right we don't know why we hadn't done it much earlier. I will miss my current job and the people I work with. I have learned so much and jumped up the career ladder with Davita much more than I ever thought I would. It truly is a company that cares about it's employees. As soon as we know where we are going I will pass on the info. We may not choose anywhere too exotic for my first assignment until I get my feet wet. Love to all.

It's not always about me.

2008-07-19T16:40:00.000-07:00

Ok my last blog just seems trite now. This blog is just to let my cousin Melissa know I love her and am sorry for the horrible week she has had. We love you Lis and Jim(Ashley and Amanda too!), if there anything we can do, let us know!

I'm In A Mood :(

2008-07-18T21:22:00.000-07:00

Maybe it's the heat. Maybe its the stress of making ends meet lately. Maybe it's I miss my cousin and a lot of other family/friends far away. Maybe it's I want to be a mom so bad I can hardly breathe. But I am in a total mood this week and can't find much to be happy or blog about. I will just press forward knowing that life's challenges don't last forever. Tom and I have made a pretty good/big decision that will help a few of our current dilemmas...so stay tuned for future announcements. Oh I did think of something positive...yours truly received an employee recognition award at today's staff meeting :) I guess there is always a silver lining.

Slurpee

2008-07-11T22:33:00.000-07:00

I got my free Slurpee today, did you?

Growing up

2008-07-05T19:03:00.000-07:00

I have been watching TLC's "What Not To Wear" a lot lately. The show rocks and it has inspired me a bit. Stacy and Clinton do their magic by providing a few simple guidelines to good fashion. I will admit I am not a fashion icon, but I am not totally clueless either. It's more my lack of effort and money that has kept me in casual wear. Maybe it's because I am approaching thirty, but I feel like I'm in a fashion rut. T-shirts and jeans aren't doing it for me anymore. I'm craving more of a sophisticated look. So today I walked into Macys. I got a few very nice pieces and never realized how nice their plus size department was. I hope to slowly accumulate a nice wardrobe(since nicer clothes also come with not as nice prices).

Job update.

2008-07-02T21:59:00.000-07:00

Tom got a call today. He has a second interview on Monday! Finger's crossed!

Let Them Eat Cake....

2008-06-29T10:07:00.000-07:00

Me and Leslie that is. I have a dear friend Leslie who is moving to Washington :( I was supposed to go and help her get ready for her upcoming garage sale, but instead we made a fabulous Texas sheet cake. There are many variations of this cake, and I can't seem to find my Mom's recipe, but they are all very close, give this one a try. I also highly recommend this one to my friend Donna because of her love of chocolate.

Lovley Leslie

Stealing A Taste :)
Our Chocolaty Confection

Posing With The Texas Sheet Cake

INGREDIENTS:
2 cups all-purpose flour
2 cups sugar
1 teaspoon baking soda
1/4 teaspoon salt
1 cup butter
1/3 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
2 eggs
1/2 cup buttermilk or sour milk
1 1/2 teaspoons vanilla

Chocolate Frosting:
1/4 cup butter
3 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa
3 tablespoons buttermilk
2 1/4 cups sifted confectioners' sugar
1/2 teaspoon vanilla

PREPARATION:
Cake: Grease a 15X10X1-inch sheet pan and set aside. In a large bowl, combine flour, sugar, baking soda, and salt; set aside. In a medium saucepan combine 1 cup butter, 1/3 cup cocoa, and 1 cup of water. Bring mixture to a boil, stirring constantly. Remove from heat. With an electric hand-held mixer on medium speed, beat chocolate mixture into the dry mixture until thoroughly blended. Add eggs, buttermilk, and vanilla. Beat for 1 minute (batter will be thin). Pour batter into the prepared pan. Bake in a 350° oven about 20 minutes. Pour warm chocolate frosting over the warm cake, spreading evenly. Place cake in pan on a wire rack; cool thoroughly before cutting. Makes 24 servings.

Frosting: In a medium saucepan combine 1/4 cup butter or margarine, 3 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder, and 3 tablespoons buttermilk. Bring to a boil. Remove from heat; add 2 1/4 cups sifted confectioners' sugar and 1/2 teaspoon vanilla. Beat until smooth.

Bragging Rights

2008-06-26T06:51:00.000-07:00

Everyone said it was a boy. The Chinese google calender said it was a boy. The mother insisted it was a boy. But the at end of the day I have a special gift. I told Sara from the start of her pregnancy that I knew what it was, and I was right. It's a GIRL!

Taking Ephraim By Storm

2008-06-24T19:02:00.000-07:00

Pop! When did this happen?Getting all sentimental and girly...bleeh!
The parents to be.
Manti Temple..REALLY beautiful!

I decided to take a quick trip up to Ephraim to visit my very missed cousin. The drive was great. It's only 9 hours from driveway to driveway and much easier than I expected. Sara is now 20 weeks pregnant respectively and starting to show quite a bit. Tomorrow she gets to find out if its a boy or a girl and I am on pins and needles! It was a laid back weekend. Included was a trip to the local Wal-Mart, helping the couple unpack boxes and set up home in their new house, church, and ice cream at the local malt shop. Oh and lots of Jon and Kate Plus 8, Bringing Home Baby, and Birth Day on TLC(making it all a little too real for Sara). We also went to the Mormon Miracle Pageant held on the Manti Temple hillside which was very cool. There was some excitement. While grating cheese, I also grated a chunk out of my finger, which did end up in a trip to the ER, but all is well now. Miss you Sara!

Job Interview

2008-06-24T18:55:00.000-07:00

After many months of applications, resumes, and an all too quiet phone, we got some good news today. Tom has a job interview on Thursday. We don't know much about it yet other than it is some kind of office/clerical job and it is full time. Please keep our family in your prayers this week, we could really use this job.

Life's a beach!

2008-06-17T20:20:00.000-07:00

Tom and I love the beach! Today was 101 degrees in Temecula, so we decided to go where the weather was a little friendlier. For some reason we did not get to go to the beach at all last summer, so we decided that we will try and make up for it this summer. It's cheap fun entertainment if you have the right stuff. We live closest to Oceanside now which we love. The beach is hardly ever packed and there is convenient parking for only $3. We don't just go to lounge either, we love to swim in the surf. Our must haves for going to the beach:

1. An umbrella with a stabilizer so it won't keep falling.
2. A radio-there is just something about the radio at the beach-it just sounds better.
3. If you are a whitey like Tom and myself -SPF 45 sunblock.
4. A cooler with ice and plenty of water-we also pack subway for lunch sometimes.
5. Nice comfy beach chairs-they make all the difference.

Anyone interested in beaching it up with us this summer, just let us know. The more the merrier!

Hoping I'm my Grandmother's Granddaughter.

2008-06-17T09:53:00.000-07:00

New Years-my Gran was a good sport!Not my project but similar

So my Grandma on my dad's side was a big time croche queen. It is how she spent most of her retirement hours. Every grandkid has a Granny blanket or two. By the time I was old enough and interested in wanting to learn, my Granny was already 90 and could not teach me. It was "too taxing to her brain" as she would say. Well last week I got the sudden motivation to learn one way or another. I went into Joannes, bought a beginner book, some yarn, and croche hooks. I was very pleased when after two days I have gotten the basic single croche stitch down. I still have yet to learn the fancy shell patterns or to follow a written pattern for that matter, but I am hoping it will come with time. I am hoping I am my Grandmother's grandaughter.

Belated six years.

2008-06-11T10:46:00.000-07:00

Tom and I celebrated our sixth anniversary on June 8th. I can't believe it's been six years-that's just NUTS! We usually take a two week vacation somewhere, but this one kind of snuck up on us so we decided to stay local and actually had a really good time. On Saturday(the 7th) we had a wonderful sushi lunch followed by a movie. We saw Prince Caspian. Not as good as Narnia, but we tend to like the epic movies, so we enjoyed it a lot. We spent a few hours in the evening at the Pechanga Casino. Not being gamblers, we have lived in Temecula 3 years and never visited the resort right in our back yard. We weren't terribly impressed, and probably won't find a need to return, but it was fun to check it out. On our actual anniversary, we fully intended to get up and go to church, but spontaneously took off for the San Diego Zoo instead. We had a great time. The only disappointment was not seeing the Pandas(it was an hour wait). I had not been there since I was 2 and Tom had never been, so we had a lot of fun. We ended the day with a Korean BBQ dinner and headed home.I can't believe how fast 6 years can go. I love you Tom and am looking forward to many more years together. Below are some pics for your viewing pleasure.

Yummy sushi! Cool bird among the flamingos
The snake was actually moving around
The meerkats
Hello there

We do a lot of self portraits-kinda lame.

Gotta love the Monkeys
It was so hot we cooled off with frozen lemonade
Korean BBQ ended our weekend

BFN

2008-06-06T15:57:00.001-07:00

As in a Big Fat Negative on my blood pregnancy test today. Our latest round of IUI was not a success. On to IVF for sure now-I am satisfied I have exhausted all the cheaper routes of infertility treatments. I will get my medications in October and we will start our round of IVF in January. It is a ways off, but we did conceive on our own not too long ago, so maybe another miracle will find it's way to us before the first of the year and save us the expense. Adoption paperwork is currently being filled out and we expect to start submitting it by August :) I was expecting today's results for a few days now, so I am dealing OK. Just anxious to move on, why does everything have to cost so much money?

Goodbye House

2008-06-01T11:45:00.000-07:00

The best back yard ever.

So my grandparent's house is sold and escrow closes on the 5th. Yesterday we had a final family BBQ at the house we have all grown to love so much. Sorting through the family heirlooms was a bit daunting. I couldn't keep everything, yet I didn't want anything thrown away either. Tom and I packed our little Scion with literally no room to spare. I was lucky enough to inherit my Grandma's china cabinet. It is quite wonderful. I held up pretty well until I did my final walk through the house before leaving. I was alone, kissed a wall and said goodbye. I knew we would not make it back to the house before escrow closes, so it hit me it would be my very last time inside. Life goes on I guess, it just moved on really fast for me.

Gold stars for Dr. Rosen

2008-05-24T10:50:00.000-07:00

Dr. Rosen

Dr. Cassidenti
Dr. Yee
Dr. Rosen did my IUI today. I really like all three doctors in my group, but today Dr. Rosen gets some gold stars from me. First of all before the IUI he did an ultrasound to make sure I ovulated. In the process he found my left ovary. No big deal right? WRONG! In the probably two dozen ultrasounds I have had throughout my treatments my left ovary seldom cooperates. It usually takes a good 2-3 minutes and lots of pressure(they are who-ha ultrasounds, not abdominal-yuck!). Not today however, he points right too it right away-gold star!

He then moved on to the right ovary where all the action is, he confirmed I did ovulate one egg, maybe two-he then states with a grin "I can't be sure, but if you get pregnant with twins, we'll know then." I love a doctor with a sense of humor-another gold star!

After the ultrasound, I walked into the treatment room for the IUI. Here is what he says "Mrs. Stanley we have a little problem". My heart sank thinking it was something awful. "We forgot to have your husband sign the consent before he went out of town. Normally I would not be able to proceed but if you promise he won't get mad at me, I will waive the consent."

We both chuckled. I have been going there for so long, everybody knows Tom and myself very well. I told him if I got pregnant the very last thing Tom would be was mad. So with the promise that I would send Tom in to sign the paperwork upon his return, he completed the IUI for me-gold star!

I really do feel lucky to have a great group of doctors. Dr. Cassidenti is my official doc, she has brought me through 2 surgeries and been there at the lowest moment in my life. Although realistic, she always is very hopeful about my case.

And I can't forget Dr. Yee. He has the best bedside manner of any doctor you are likely to meet. Never have I seen him without a smile. A few cool facts about Dr. Yee. He achieved the first ever pregnancy from a frozen embryo in 1982. He also uses is skills to save lowland gorillas from extinction through IVF.