tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-57933028974186507312024-03-05T00:01:34.414-05:00Preemie-umOur journey into parenthood starts with our preemie and whole lot of love.Shannahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02195407283530444825noreply@blogger.comBlogger29125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5793302897418650731.post-15819070875637557072011-04-06T08:14:00.000-04:002011-04-06T08:14:30.704-04:00Two steps forward...Sam had been having a stellar week. He was down to 2L of high flow oxygen and finally got to eat by mouth! He did great. Until 3AM this morning. He barely took anything from his bottle and had a Bradicardia/desaturation episode that was hard for him to get out of. He also lost 2 ounces. Crap, son. You can't go backward! We're here for you -- you can do it! Let's face it, prematurity sucks.Shannahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02195407283530444825noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5793302897418650731.post-26534105770612261932011-04-05T23:01:00.000-04:002011-04-05T23:01:22.560-04:00Top 2 Tuesday<div style="text-align: center;"><a border="0" href="http://benandtay.blogspot.com/search/label/top%202%20tuesday" target="_blank"><img src="http://i938.photobucket.com/albums/ad230/sarahannroger/blog%20design/top2tuesday.png" /></a></div><br />
All the cool kids are doing it, so I am too now! Linking up with <a href="http://theundomesticmomma.com/">The Undomestic Momma</a> this week to share with you the top two songs on my iPod. iTunes tells me that I have an odd taste in music.<br />
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1. John Lennon - Beautiful Boy<br />
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This one is self explanatory. I've been singing it to Samuel and I love it.<br />
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2. Britney Spears - Till the World Ends<br />
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What's funny about this is... this was JUST released, a week or two ago. I've had it on nonstop while I clean, cook, do laundry, dance around the house... etc. It's perfect dance it up, feeling good music. Who doesn't love some Britney Spears?Shannahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02195407283530444825noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5793302897418650731.post-12588832439139265112011-04-04T00:07:00.002-04:002011-04-04T00:44:30.059-04:00FrugalityNever has $8.00 in CVS Extra Care bucks made me so happy. My husband and I have decided to live frugally now that I am unemployed and off maternity leave. That means finding every way to save every penny we can and giving up our everyday luxuries. My buddy, Mrs. C, over on <a href="http://tosots.blogspot.com/">The Other Side of the Story</a> is amazing at finding a deal, or two, or three. She's inspired me to give it a bigger effort. My husband and I were brainstorming tonight on how we can save money easily. Here's some things we came up with.<br />
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1. <i>DIY oil changes. </i>My husband could easily change our oil and filters instead of going to the local shop. Savings - $12 every three months.<br />
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2. <i>Eat a cheap meal, twice a week. </i>Dinner of spaghetti with sauce and some garlic bread would cost me $2.00 to make a night. Some nights, my hubs and I spend over $20.00 just on take out. Savings - $36.00 a week.<br />
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3. <i>Coupon everything. </i>We aren't the healthiest eaters. I am comfortable saying we eat processed foods and lots of sugary cereal. If I use my coupons better, and follow some fliers, I can get many things cheap. Lots of things free! Savings - endless.<br />
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4. <i>Cut out the gym membership. </i>We have an elliptical, bike and treadmill in our basement. My husband has a full weight bench/rack thing. I can do 30 minutes of step aerobics on Wii Fit plus. I can use my cable's OnDemand option to "Sweat it to the Oldies" with Richard Simmons. We can go for afternoon walks. We can work out without spending $39.98 a month at a gym that sees us once a week, at most. Savings - $39.98.<br />
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5. <i>Cut back on giving</i>. I spend way too much moolah on gifts. Instead of shelling out $100 for a little cousin's birthday this month, I am going to step back and give a more responsible gift. Let's be honest. This cousin's mom will never do that for Samuel, so why am I going to break my back over it? I hit up Carters.com today, and with some codes from Retail Me Not, I got her three outfits for $28.00. Yeah. THAT was awesome. Savings - $72.00 a month, if not more some months!<br />
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6. <i>No weekly blow outs. </i>I have impossible hair. Thick, kinky, crazy, curly, Portuguese frizzy hair. My long time stylist has been blowing it out for me every Saturday morning at 8AM since I was 18. A small expense weekly that feels entirely worth it, since it takes me up to 2.5 hours to do my hair BUT not necessary. Mike agreed to let me keep going once a month (on a weekend we have plans) to get it blown out. Savings - $60 a month.<br />
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7. <i>Once a week golf, no more. </i>If I have to cut out my blow outs, Mike can't be golfing on every Saturday morning. Instead, he'll join my brother for golf once a month and they will go to a public course. Long gone is the country club membership from last year. Savings - huge $$$ I am embarrassed to admit.<br />
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If you look at that, it's $5000 savings a year. It's small things we're talking about here. The impact is not that great of a change to our quality of life. That much money is enough to buy me a new Macbook and iPad and... to put in the bank. I hope I can keep myself accountable. I'll check in often on my progress.Shannahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02195407283530444825noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5793302897418650731.post-40037548153641236562011-04-01T23:52:00.000-04:002011-04-01T23:52:38.363-04:00Pumping woesFor once, I thought something was going well for me. I had been steadily pumping from 600-700mL's a day of breast milk for my little guy. Then I got an infection from a medical procedure which required antibiotics and boom. My supply dipped. It happened seemingly overnight! Yesterday, I didn't even break 500mL. Lovely.<br />
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My stash is large right now. I have <s>about</s> exactly 18930mL or 640 ounces in the deep freezer. That doesn't count the 30 ounces or so in the kitchen freezer. My son is taking in 44mL per feeding, 8 times a day for a total of 352mL or just about 12 ounces a day. This is half of a normal infant's daily intake. The goal is to get him to feed by mouth and take 18 ounces minimum before he goes home. If I can't keep up with him, my stash will quickly dwindle and I'll never have enough to last!<br />
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I am deathly afraid of not being able to provide breast milk for my mini-miracle. The antibodies in my milk provide him with strength and his stomach can easily digest and use what I provide to him. If I can't do that small thing, than I'll feel like I failed him completely. I couldn't provide him a strong home for 40 weeks, might as well feed him the best possible nutrition.<br />
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I need to get my supply up, and quick. I have a script for Reglan. I am going to give it another go. It temporarily boosted my supply before. Might as well give it another shot. After some research, I think I will try to do a few more things: drink more water, eat more food, pump around the clock and drink Mother's Milk tea. My supply had been established and I could get that total amount with just four pumping sessions a day. Today, I pumped six times and was lucky to get 500mL.<br />
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Wish me luck. My boobs will have some explaining to do if they can't keep up!Shannahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02195407283530444825noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5793302897418650731.post-58318942670910911982011-04-01T21:36:00.000-04:002011-04-01T21:36:15.481-04:00New mommy styleSince I gave birth to Samuel, I've been pretty bad about looking my best. My outfit of choice was usually a pair of maternity jeans and sweatshirts with either Ugg boots or mules. Classy, for sure. My mother was increasingly annoyed with my rapper's ass, as she called it. The crotch of my pants would sag, it looked like I had no butt at all. We set off on a classy yet inexpensive wardrobe to mix with my pre-pregnancy clothes.<br />
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Many places we visited didn't carry my size or have anything that flattered my belly. Keep in mind, this belly was not a product of my pregnancy. It was there long before I even met my husband; it's just floppy now. My pre-baby wardrobe includes lots of tanks, bermuda shorts and flip flops. With $160 and a LOT of coupons, I was able to add to my wardrobe substantially at NY & Company. Four pairs of crops, one pair of shorts, one pair of bermudas, three cardigans, four tops and a short trench, and I almost forgot, a pair of peep toe flats. Worth every cent.<br />
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Here are some of my best finds:<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi0ZeyxdqHgVBeGf8Oxl9FC-ngo6Q80tI5nyt3sOd859-Yl4DbXALty7goTXpZYZNaA13xktQf-BQSgN5QPqpn029aLCKlrTRSlb235-37jsyjBkTKUkY7tL8GnjAJW5DVqx3zu390M1i0/s1600/01862510_063.jpg" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi0ZeyxdqHgVBeGf8Oxl9FC-ngo6Q80tI5nyt3sOd859-Yl4DbXALty7goTXpZYZNaA13xktQf-BQSgN5QPqpn029aLCKlrTRSlb235-37jsyjBkTKUkY7tL8GnjAJW5DVqx3zu390M1i0/s320/01862510_063.jpg" width="238" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-bottom: 0.5em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; padding-bottom: 6px; padding-left: 6px; padding-right: 6px; padding-top: 6px; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="padding-top: 4px; text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;">I love this simple v-neck cardigan. I purchased it in this stone color, and once I wore it and LOVED it, I went back and got it in black. Love.</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjNS_qiklKP8VJrX6EuU-HLTA4FLnOOo1braBbcWQ65m7hqbMdrOkZJ-WaOhdg3p03nXBO0TFAlq76-pQOXU7XolkVTnXw5vUbE3kffgiak1m6jEf130gQxbjOlZUo2Vo2dIXx69cjncMw/s1600/04502493_774.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjNS_qiklKP8VJrX6EuU-HLTA4FLnOOo1braBbcWQ65m7hqbMdrOkZJ-WaOhdg3p03nXBO0TFAlq76-pQOXU7XolkVTnXw5vUbE3kffgiak1m6jEf130gQxbjOlZUo2Vo2dIXx69cjncMw/s320/04502493_774.jpg" width="238" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">I live in anything comfortable. These crops, in olive, tan and grey, can easily be dressed up or down. Let me tell you this: NY&Co should have a girl with curves pose in these pants. This stick does them no justice!</div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiWy-54Fmwwu2pjjaCjw44Nb7fzyYub3saEEP8KfDYoMrjFuUODpuO_5H6UD3S-3FLLJjCFvEZDsoz87e3Q78-1a6LFhgVqQMrglnk8S9VWBt6Nyx28at4PvSymNiSw1fu8u7OIc2Wl3tw/s1600/05854022_870.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiWy-54Fmwwu2pjjaCjw44Nb7fzyYub3saEEP8KfDYoMrjFuUODpuO_5H6UD3S-3FLLJjCFvEZDsoz87e3Q78-1a6LFhgVqQMrglnk8S9VWBt6Nyx28at4PvSymNiSw1fu8u7OIc2Wl3tw/s320/05854022_870.jpg" width="238" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">The shirt, pants and jacket are all a part of my new spring summer wardrobe. I love the softness of the top and the spunky, fun peach jacket. I wish I could tolerate a necklace because that looks so put together. Alas, I rip them off within minutes of putting one on.</div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhWyf4J-LoQ5Y3LLJwq3bgz5UUXFMvfXLI_VRlBOsjoxoFMo4wMxHw3cm0o6RAjzYBO4OVO74UW_-JR1ihwgagSEv1DWqje9_CD5rbRcx7H-yyjq2Ty5oE-iAuU1yhBjhzs0g_2_n4UqDY/s1600/09003127_786.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhWyf4J-LoQ5Y3LLJwq3bgz5UUXFMvfXLI_VRlBOsjoxoFMo4wMxHw3cm0o6RAjzYBO4OVO74UW_-JR1ihwgagSEv1DWqje9_CD5rbRcx7H-yyjq2Ty5oE-iAuU1yhBjhzs0g_2_n4UqDY/s320/09003127_786.jpg" width="238" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Love. I can doll these up with heels or throw on flip flops to be comfy, and I'll still look more tailored than I have been. If only it would stop snowing. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">My splurge? Ann Taylor Loft. I got a dress and two tops there. Almost as much as I spent at NY&Co, but worth it for the quality. My favorite new addition:</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgvgfVElKdUV4fSxUrB1jaEhWAwIW1FYgSHMNrgUmBpeOr62-F_Yk0Za1bDiObdRrOaHi1vxW72UOQmnzKnadRKreYxNnrWgrw5GoPFXRvbpGbRg24-0Lm2iOrwbyuEaXQ0yVJJZCqrUmA/s1600/256468_5908_pdlg485x503.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgvgfVElKdUV4fSxUrB1jaEhWAwIW1FYgSHMNrgUmBpeOr62-F_Yk0Za1bDiObdRrOaHi1vxW72UOQmnzKnadRKreYxNnrWgrw5GoPFXRvbpGbRg24-0Lm2iOrwbyuEaXQ0yVJJZCqrUmA/s320/256468_5908_pdlg485x503.jpg" width="308" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Love the color, love the fit, love it all. I can't wait to wear this to one of the many events I have coming up in the next few months. Now I need to look for a new pair of shoes...</div>Shannahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02195407283530444825noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5793302897418650731.post-10646333561334831002011-03-30T22:37:00.000-04:002011-03-30T22:37:42.310-04:00Wee Bit of Me Wednesday...<center style="text-align: left;">I have to start a new tradition on here. I'll be hopping onto the bandwagon and joining other bloggers in sharing a few tidbits about me. So....</center><center style="text-align: left;"><br />
</center><center><a href="http://www.myleighashley.com/"><img height="350" src="http://i616.photobucket.com/albums/tt244/leighbenner/weebitwednesdaysbutton-1.png" width="350" /></a></center><br />
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<center style="font-family: Georgia, Utopia, 'Palatino Linotype', Palatino, serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 22px; text-align: left;"><strong><span style="font-size: medium;">{one}</span> if you won a trip to Disneyland/world, who would you take with you?</strong></center><center style="font-family: Georgia, Utopia, 'Palatino Linotype', Palatino, serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 22px; text-align: left;"><i>My husband, Mike, with our son wrapped in a Moby wrap. I can't pick just one!</i></center><center style="font-family: Georgia, Utopia, 'Palatino Linotype', Palatino, serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 22px; text-align: left;"><i><br />
</i></center><center style="font-family: Georgia, Utopia, 'Palatino Linotype', Palatino, serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 22px; text-align: center;"><em></em></center><center style="font-family: Georgia, Utopia, 'Palatino Linotype', Palatino, serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 22px; text-align: left;"><strong><span style="font-size: medium;">{two}</span> when was the last time you listened to a CD?</strong></center><center style="font-family: Georgia, Utopia, 'Palatino Linotype', Palatino, serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 22px; text-align: left;"><i>My wedding favor was a CD. I listen to that in the car once in a while.</i></center><center style="font-family: Georgia, Utopia, 'Palatino Linotype', Palatino, serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 22px; text-align: left;"><i><br />
</i></center><center style="font-family: Georgia, Utopia, 'Palatino Linotype', Palatino, serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 22px; text-align: center;"><em></em></center><center style="font-family: Georgia, Utopia, 'Palatino Linotype', Palatino, serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 22px; text-align: left;"><strong><span style="font-size: medium;">{three}</span> what spice/seasoning is your favorite?</strong></center><center style="font-family: Georgia, Utopia, 'Palatino Linotype', Palatino, serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 22px; text-align: left;"><em>Cinnamon. Especially on porridge.</em></center><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, Utopia, 'Palatino Linotype', Palatino, serif;"><div style="text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 14px; line-height: 22px;"><br />
</span></div></span><center style="font-family: Georgia, Utopia, 'Palatino Linotype', Palatino, serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 22px; text-align: center;"><em></em></center><center style="font-family: Georgia, Utopia, 'Palatino Linotype', Palatino, serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 22px; text-align: left;"><strong><span style="font-size: medium;">{four}</span> if you were in a band, what kind of music would you play?</strong></center><center style="font-family: Georgia, Utopia, 'Palatino Linotype', Palatino, serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 22px; text-align: left;"><i>Don't judge - Christian Rock.</i></center><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, Utopia, 'Palatino Linotype', Palatino, serif;"><div style="text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 14px; line-height: 22px;"><br />
</span></div></span><center style="font-family: Georgia, Utopia, 'Palatino Linotype', Palatino, serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 22px; text-align: center;"><em></em></center><center style="font-family: Georgia, Utopia, 'Palatino Linotype', Palatino, serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 22px; text-align: left;"><strong><span style="font-size: medium;">{five}</span> if you could have personally witnessed one historical event, which one would it be?</strong></center><center style="font-family: Georgia, Utopia, 'Palatino Linotype', Palatino, serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 22px; text-align: left;"><i>JFK's Inauguration. </i></center><center style="font-family: Georgia, Utopia, 'Palatino Linotype', Palatino, serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 22px; text-align: left;"><i><br />
</i></center><center style="font-family: Georgia, Utopia, 'Palatino Linotype', Palatino, serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 22px; text-align: center;"><em></em></center><center style="font-family: Georgia, Utopia, 'Palatino Linotype', Palatino, serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 22px; text-align: left;"><strong><span style="font-size: medium;">{six}</span> if you could go back to school, what would you study?</strong></center><center style="font-family: Georgia, Utopia, 'Palatino Linotype', Palatino, serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 22px; text-align: left;"><em>Nursing, with a concentration in obstetrics and pediatrics (neonates.)</em></center><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, Utopia, 'Palatino Linotype', Palatino, serif;"><div style="text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 14px; line-height: 22px;"><br />
</span></div></span><center style="font-family: Georgia, Utopia, 'Palatino Linotype', Palatino, serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 22px; text-align: center;"><em></em></center><center style="font-family: Georgia, Utopia, 'Palatino Linotype', Palatino, serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 22px; text-align: left;"><strong><span style="font-size: medium;">{seven}</span> if you could go to one sporting event, all expenses paid, which one would you see?</strong></center><center style="font-family: Georgia, Utopia, 'Palatino Linotype', Palatino, serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 22px; text-align: left;"><em>The UEFA finals. </em></center><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, Utopia, 'Palatino Linotype', Palatino, serif;"><div style="text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 14px; line-height: 22px;"><br />
</span></div></span><center style="font-family: Georgia, Utopia, 'Palatino Linotype', Palatino, serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 22px; text-align: center;"><em></em></center><center style="font-family: Georgia, Utopia, 'Palatino Linotype', Palatino, serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 22px; text-align: left;"><strong><span style="font-size: medium;">{eight}</span> do you drive an automatic or a manual?</strong></center><center style="font-family: Georgia, Utopia, 'Palatino Linotype', Palatino, serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 22px; text-align: left;"><em>Automatic. Ever since I tore my MCL and ACL, I can't handle a clutch.</em></center><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, Utopia, 'Palatino Linotype', Palatino, serif;"><div style="text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 14px; line-height: 22px;"><br />
</span></div></span><center style="font-family: Georgia, Utopia, 'Palatino Linotype', Palatino, serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 22px; text-align: center;"><em></em></center><center style="font-family: Georgia, Utopia, 'Palatino Linotype', Palatino, serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 22px; text-align: left;"><strong><span style="font-size: medium;">{nine}</span> are you comfortable speaking in front of people?</strong></center><center style="font-family: Georgia, Utopia, 'Palatino Linotype', Palatino, serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 22px; text-align: left;"><em>Yes. A little too much so, actually.</em></center><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Georgia, Utopia, 'Palatino Linotype', Palatino, serif;"><div style="text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: 14px; line-height: 22px;"><br />
</span></div></span><center style="font-family: Georgia, Utopia, 'Palatino Linotype', Palatino, serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 22px; text-align: center;"><em></em></center><center style="font-family: Georgia, Utopia, 'Palatino Linotype', Palatino, serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 22px; text-align: left;"><strong><span style="font-size: medium;">{ten}</span> have you ever experienced an earthquake?</strong></center><center style="font-family: Georgia, Utopia, 'Palatino Linotype', Palatino, serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 22px; text-align: left;"><i>Yes. In the Azores when I was . It wasn't huge, but it was enough to keep me from going back the next summer. I got over it eventually, and went back at 13.</i></center>Shannahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02195407283530444825noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5793302897418650731.post-2635081290472951882011-03-29T09:11:00.000-04:002011-03-29T09:11:26.843-04:00Two months old!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJLwgz6FFHPLYaaU-xYSzmfehYnFTWHuaxe8emcCI1sUR6XCotHnNVldOFmFmUB1jywndCFTdtstsvZmJHtZXxcZBVt14I2i_Z4snvzFTbtKQQqM7zGHEZGeLgx8fBEpZkscvab9Tch_I/s1600/P3281446.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJLwgz6FFHPLYaaU-xYSzmfehYnFTWHuaxe8emcCI1sUR6XCotHnNVldOFmFmUB1jywndCFTdtstsvZmJHtZXxcZBVt14I2i_Z4snvzFTbtKQQqM7zGHEZGeLgx8fBEpZkscvab9Tch_I/s320/P3281446.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">I make his bed the way I like it. I completely dismantled the nurses work and made him cozy and comfy.</div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj13y0XomBC2PKz_QBd81EH8oeL7aUmODrIgzEEiO244tDQYORAkP1FJyLyDe3E2maZIOs4oZ2DDGe8BB4kzdtEM9gvthAiSoQWc1_CuovlcOglTnHMnezN0MQsYG4fe039VLCAoP_Sb5I/s1600/P3281447.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="229" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj13y0XomBC2PKz_QBd81EH8oeL7aUmODrIgzEEiO244tDQYORAkP1FJyLyDe3E2maZIOs4oZ2DDGe8BB4kzdtEM9gvthAiSoQWc1_CuovlcOglTnHMnezN0MQsYG4fe039VLCAoP_Sb5I/s320/P3281447.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Doesn't he look peaceful?</div><br />
He was all set with taking pictures with his "I'm two months" onesie. As if putting the onesie over his head didn't piss him off enough, I made him pose for pictures. In this first one, he's smacking my arm out of the way. Feisty little boy!<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiOajFfkc_oefWrdCDW9QKHLNz-PxhNhXlf7bf8NiSR6VKkDI8ZBRFLWPkS_Azd5oOuiaMmhva4bd-wVYFt7XcjKfkxWEPy1ckvQPV4_peouyejRxqZhGE_Uq9Y3OQHmmokKvalhHmd3z0/s1600/P3281454.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiOajFfkc_oefWrdCDW9QKHLNz-PxhNhXlf7bf8NiSR6VKkDI8ZBRFLWPkS_Azd5oOuiaMmhva4bd-wVYFt7XcjKfkxWEPy1ckvQPV4_peouyejRxqZhGE_Uq9Y3OQHmmokKvalhHmd3z0/s320/P3281454.JPG" width="240" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEilUhu_s-sIDj-h1eeuDxyiMAwwT0wYzYWYyxwBDuXHi6NFfaChOnmRSNgUV7wvjhJOtYAf2O0qaq1oe0N7Wln5XvARtMDbbUDS9At7YYufCMVV-GQNs0jPzl8ROHFgJP09-wDEz5yAN0Q/s1600/P3281455.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEilUhu_s-sIDj-h1eeuDxyiMAwwT0wYzYWYyxwBDuXHi6NFfaChOnmRSNgUV7wvjhJOtYAf2O0qaq1oe0N7Wln5XvARtMDbbUDS9At7YYufCMVV-GQNs0jPzl8ROHFgJP09-wDEz5yAN0Q/s320/P3281455.JPG" width="240" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiNccFD-59nGTXIUvcTREqxfkgZtpX3Rzcka3ERnSqKtcP4jtKmnc3a9psN6oFtmD3KT1JEJNuij8o8Vwau2TgPkOywWbbYtHEl2FilUgjjcvb3yxvy_VITDKH9rHAm5zUtwZ3RvGKhz9Q/s1600/P3281456.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiNccFD-59nGTXIUvcTREqxfkgZtpX3Rzcka3ERnSqKtcP4jtKmnc3a9psN6oFtmD3KT1JEJNuij8o8Vwau2TgPkOywWbbYtHEl2FilUgjjcvb3yxvy_VITDKH9rHAm5zUtwZ3RvGKhz9Q/s320/P3281456.JPG" width="255" /></a></div> <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhlJUh1dtua9ZTTpxnKHm13px512xRMBupCOriadXTn__KIIeNfdUpncwBie2lttUz57Kz222WRUBU3u5APzC0U_c4WK8_XGttIPE2kd4owUMbqySGtpTRPZ3K7tj5ze_8C6OL9ctrWTX8/s1600/P3281460.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhlJUh1dtua9ZTTpxnKHm13px512xRMBupCOriadXTn__KIIeNfdUpncwBie2lttUz57Kz222WRUBU3u5APzC0U_c4WK8_XGttIPE2kd4owUMbqySGtpTRPZ3K7tj5ze_8C6OL9ctrWTX8/s320/P3281460.JPG" width="253" /></a></div> <br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEipAq9vFrbBQeDrYu98WlSsOnFnQW70kV9J1_2asNwVNSJerwM2po_ZhDZsmdFp2trcd3vin6sVJShyAwyXw2PhDiKz9gcf94i18-RAXagtHomEK-jUdo57oLIcEbX_XZkHbZkopF_ChUY/s1600/P3281465.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEipAq9vFrbBQeDrYu98WlSsOnFnQW70kV9J1_2asNwVNSJerwM2po_ZhDZsmdFp2trcd3vin6sVJShyAwyXw2PhDiKz9gcf94i18-RAXagtHomEK-jUdo57oLIcEbX_XZkHbZkopF_ChUY/s320/P3281465.JPG" width="255" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">It's been two months. How do you like me now?</td></tr>
</tbody></table><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiiY_rQ4tImeQFuOavCqeXkTZFpPFdVr9e6AqbYdmYOlYenp4G0lk8ESG1JF9o6wRY0Rc_cq7OVXIEICb2Lm8IPDonW6wZSRFKtDMT7sIc8kXXWQpQXeuUFjDz_UdoOdnSosK7-lJgmFV4/s1600/P3281467.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiiY_rQ4tImeQFuOavCqeXkTZFpPFdVr9e6AqbYdmYOlYenp4G0lk8ESG1JF9o6wRY0Rc_cq7OVXIEICb2Lm8IPDonW6wZSRFKtDMT7sIc8kXXWQpQXeuUFjDz_UdoOdnSosK7-lJgmFV4/s320/P3281467.JPG" width="225" /></a></div><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhALyw2O17-EA39y43cIEr4YQb4_ns7a5ZrWkCInj4YIYpru0cPekKvc98ztCCx8XXjzNwd3bOZ_CjLTrzvB07MIYgKSjVk1GIyu5ueEF0XgdDvY9tHWXFPMyfI-kofLymPd3XyFVEmbHc/s1600/P3281469.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhALyw2O17-EA39y43cIEr4YQb4_ns7a5ZrWkCInj4YIYpru0cPekKvc98ztCCx8XXjzNwd3bOZ_CjLTrzvB07MIYgKSjVk1GIyu5ueEF0XgdDvY9tHWXFPMyfI-kofLymPd3XyFVEmbHc/s320/P3281469.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">I'm wiped out, Mommy. Let me sleep!</td></tr>
</tbody></table><div>We had a good day. He's been sleeping comfortably, eating well and doing well with breathing. He hasn't had any changes within the passed few days, but he is going strong. Samuel now weighs 5 pounds 12 ounces. He's huge, comparatively.</div>Shannahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02195407283530444825noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5793302897418650731.post-76302625407921978582011-03-28T00:04:00.001-04:002011-03-28T00:10:39.726-04:00We've moved<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">To a smaller hospital where they can address Samuel's less intensive needs. The Level III nursery he was at was at full capacity, with lots of little, more critical babies. Sam needs help with feeding, growing, breathing. Lots of help with breathing. For the past few weeks, there was talk of Sam stepping down a level so he could be closer to home (literally a five minute WALK away, compared to a thirty-plus minute drive.) We got word that he was healthy enough and a room was available on Saturday, March 26 around noon. That is the best 25th birthday present my husband could ever have! He was transported at 4PM and when the ambulance came by, it was bittersweet. We were happy to move forward but we loved each and every moment with Samuel's care staff. We'd rather not be in that position at all, but his primary nurses and staff were phenomenal. We're forever grateful to them and ever bonded to them for helping us all during this stressful yet happy time.</div><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgu5UvbZ-SlSMuN1GnYzQIBenys5hkc7rLgC02VL3IXs0Ht6h7JHU5mtY7Lw8EzOE28uh9bwLFoO8TNpsXgT7Qt1pIM5F3L01aIaM9wxbCuLASr9GabEvSa49C_UAMVDJqMawCIyVfHmg4/s1600/P3261347.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgu5UvbZ-SlSMuN1GnYzQIBenys5hkc7rLgC02VL3IXs0Ht6h7JHU5mtY7Lw8EzOE28uh9bwLFoO8TNpsXgT7Qt1pIM5F3L01aIaM9wxbCuLASr9GabEvSa49C_UAMVDJqMawCIyVfHmg4/s320/P3261347.JPG" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">This is his "woe is me" look.</td></tr>
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</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">We took a bunch of pictures before we left his home of 8 weeks.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEidmQA5cPVrAbcppFtlCtrTNRNDU0bgXacNl5lKJyOHzlgzsdib399nNzcG-qwk7a-MrmyX5yLP6eDK0919iAiIMHBdCjoABLy5YZCpmarGNVn5gkLagh_f5cr1E_9QvFcBQ8EbkGxbwpo/s1600/P3261348.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEidmQA5cPVrAbcppFtlCtrTNRNDU0bgXacNl5lKJyOHzlgzsdib399nNzcG-qwk7a-MrmyX5yLP6eDK0919iAiIMHBdCjoABLy5YZCpmarGNVn5gkLagh_f5cr1E_9QvFcBQ8EbkGxbwpo/s320/P3261348.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Last "Portuguese Word of the Day: adeus."</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh0ZWVvpj9gbjq-sEbRshS_iVwynRrQOdd29cWKNVaiCZ07wsvEpovaULSSuxDvr9jJhfF5M7uHzcQj-LYnU62pUDs0LYZDUQH37ODxSWPDGFuSOFl_cVvYSrVpA8nqNjzhgjuoTJIo1Go/s1600/P3261377.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh0ZWVvpj9gbjq-sEbRshS_iVwynRrQOdd29cWKNVaiCZ07wsvEpovaULSSuxDvr9jJhfF5M7uHzcQj-LYnU62pUDs0LYZDUQH37ODxSWPDGFuSOFl_cVvYSrVpA8nqNjzhgjuoTJIo1Go/s320/P3261377.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">My beloved Ameda Elite.</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh99xHAUbCUrPlT6p2XHv7xhFj6S_o6khc855D9qZ0T9QNAMNh1DVGFHYPhifFuWigPhShRRfnh1uEMZYw5TEVkmL94y5iSJtuFz3M3XR45XIMnMXiGLkO-WMyAKFI6cdphGssEzlwAMyA/s1600/P3261379.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh99xHAUbCUrPlT6p2XHv7xhFj6S_o6khc855D9qZ0T9QNAMNh1DVGFHYPhifFuWigPhShRRfnh1uEMZYw5TEVkmL94y5iSJtuFz3M3XR45XIMnMXiGLkO-WMyAKFI6cdphGssEzlwAMyA/s320/P3261379.JPG" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The room looks so desolate with all his decorations down.</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgne62k1uufL2S4h8_jqapDnnrRdvAx05xkPUpSmLsSOS5uriZOjxKXfqT8_fowQqsAGxq9WqK0Mkfg29BJRmrfMNBBSNg8REX5OPF2eL9mCx4b5Fdr1uwgpge0dRMn4syp8CGJwL02HO4/s1600/P3261383.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgne62k1uufL2S4h8_jqapDnnrRdvAx05xkPUpSmLsSOS5uriZOjxKXfqT8_fowQqsAGxq9WqK0Mkfg29BJRmrfMNBBSNg8REX5OPF2eL9mCx4b5Fdr1uwgpge0dRMn4syp8CGJwL02HO4/s320/P3261383.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">His primary nurse getting ready to bring him on the ride to the new hospital.</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjTmKaglvCuHkXcihb9BrPL4_o8NPSLhTaIXezMvAHv0pHuyVqrITNkCvd0Omtt_Pa4N2iKXAf_HQslf3lBUJrpxiBWP2w5_ijEvVtEpsd7LsDhIZzN5dstr-mKepIaCdly36-868wueXs/s1600/P3261388.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjTmKaglvCuHkXcihb9BrPL4_o8NPSLhTaIXezMvAHv0pHuyVqrITNkCvd0Omtt_Pa4N2iKXAf_HQslf3lBUJrpxiBWP2w5_ijEvVtEpsd7LsDhIZzN5dstr-mKepIaCdly36-868wueXs/s320/P3261388.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">All buckled up and ready to go!</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjurVUmrjQTZgTmBClLYEwngpINKCWenyEYYV8HvdkG-KqVoLdT0nQUYAieUgSKKaQNbRxFqu3J48BZ7UmkSRcLuQQeLGIfC5GoXFjG37lsU5URElkdyZQ7Gd-h224VP-_sXCZL35a6RDI/s1600/P3261401.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjurVUmrjQTZgTmBClLYEwngpINKCWenyEYYV8HvdkG-KqVoLdT0nQUYAieUgSKKaQNbRxFqu3J48BZ7UmkSRcLuQQeLGIfC5GoXFjG37lsU5URElkdyZQ7Gd-h224VP-_sXCZL35a6RDI/s320/P3261401.JPG" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Getting onto the ambulance.</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiRR3Ew_w7x280-o0cwaa-XfOncpFdx7jwU3pVqT-5_X7ldmLKHYutE73NvgWAM2A6TV9kOQnygFanJ_gOlakBBqhARdtW0ycFWZfJhdmdtp9NHswu7EMOrIhppe_rYDX0naFFvbAe-S5k/s1600/P3261431.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiRR3Ew_w7x280-o0cwaa-XfOncpFdx7jwU3pVqT-5_X7ldmLKHYutE73NvgWAM2A6TV9kOQnygFanJ_gOlakBBqhARdtW0ycFWZfJhdmdtp9NHswu7EMOrIhppe_rYDX0naFFvbAe-S5k/s320/P3261431.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">There's our boy, just a hundred feet ahead of us!</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEggqU_rOyxDBjqkJNvnA0qVJSRU0UafiHQbGE-Bjq25qjsdhIfIrjnZ7Bco-Q6Hunvw9la7wsAIEZMhXIgk78Mh9pNghyphenhyphenF1IJo4FZk0h9YM4jPNLCsKqHm4oTOhssfsim2KwDqrLAW_8JM/s1600/P3261434.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEggqU_rOyxDBjqkJNvnA0qVJSRU0UafiHQbGE-Bjq25qjsdhIfIrjnZ7Bco-Q6Hunvw9la7wsAIEZMhXIgk78Mh9pNghyphenhyphenF1IJo4FZk0h9YM4jPNLCsKqHm4oTOhssfsim2KwDqrLAW_8JM/s320/P3261434.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Arriving at the new Hospital.</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhIwpyXnSDJUvL2Ca-Rz34twV4PUxcrVd88QxrWfH4NbvguOpONJFfn6zttQuFKB6i2b7TkiCUtaJQj0dPnWFcgcKul_BPUKbqO6lyM6KIQmQbHrAl1xeuo5O22R2H6p1VrQwu9tZBsJqY/s1600/P3261432.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhIwpyXnSDJUvL2Ca-Rz34twV4PUxcrVd88QxrWfH4NbvguOpONJFfn6zttQuFKB6i2b7TkiCUtaJQj0dPnWFcgcKul_BPUKbqO6lyM6KIQmQbHrAl1xeuo5O22R2H6p1VrQwu9tZBsJqY/s320/P3261432.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">His Build-a-Bear, ready to take care of him.<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: small;"><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjdBBafytNBr7fqbHrVgdh6o8SclSfX0TYPFfE_V3XblVNK4w2qDwyhFS0LQ3T7paoBEqetifcyxElc5v9AdKL_03iFUb3gW7LGsP6kTVnOsHAfDrr1jRjjD23qA5KJ8BukgIJUf7ZENgg/s1600/P3261365.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjdBBafytNBr7fqbHrVgdh6o8SclSfX0TYPFfE_V3XblVNK4w2qDwyhFS0LQ3T7paoBEqetifcyxElc5v9AdKL_03iFUb3gW7LGsP6kTVnOsHAfDrr1jRjjD23qA5KJ8BukgIJUf7ZENgg/s400/P3261365.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Our last family kiss in room 3442.</td></tr>
</tbody></table></div><div>And so our journey begins with a new environment and a new care team. Our neonatologist also works at the Level III a few weeks out of the year, so I do not doubt the quality of care at all. Our biggest adjustment will be from having a 180 square foot room to ourselves down to a 300 square foot room for 4-8 kids. When Sam got to the hospital, there were 7 babies! It sure was a tight fit. Today, two babies were discharged and the room is far more comfortable with just 5 babies. </div><div><br />
</div><div>They first put him in a small plastic bassinet but they quickly realized that was too small for him. They laid him in a crib just like at his other room! The doctor is thrilled that Mike and I know Samuel so well, and was happy to see how big and strong he is for the hurdles he has jumped. We're proud of him, too. </div>Shannahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02195407283530444825noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5793302897418650731.post-34311674870180188972011-03-27T14:10:00.000-04:002011-03-27T14:10:38.666-04:00Keeping it cleanI come from a family of clean freaks. They are more than just clean freaks, my mother has been diagnosed with OCD. She irons everything, washes her floors twice a day and if you move a vase just a few inches over, she notices. She's the female "Monk."<br />
<br />
I didn't inherit the insanity, but I am also pretty into having a clean house. I cannot handle clutter or mess. I hate to see dishes in the sink waiting to be washed. When my husband showers, he knows the clothes has to go down to the basement to the hamper there. It's a huge change from his previous dwelling, but he's getting used to it.<br />
<br />
Our cleaning routine is pretty easy. Everyday, we make the bed, wash all dishes, sweep floors and dry off the shower after we use it. My husband has also learned to dry off the bottles of body wash and put them back in our linen closet instead of letting them fill up the shower shelves. I wash the floors as needed, which is usually two to three times a week. I hate foot prints. Every Saturday morning, I dust every room, move furniture to sweep behind it, wash the bathroom and kitchen and change the bed sheets. Every few weeks, I'll dust the baseboards, wash windows (as needed) and wipe down the walls. What do I use to clean? Just a wet sheet of bounty and a dry one. It works better than anything else we could think of.<br />
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Despite always keeping up with my house, I feel like it is never complete. I guarantee so many people agree.Shannahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02195407283530444825noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5793302897418650731.post-86610511810077003222011-03-27T10:15:00.000-04:002011-03-27T10:15:40.309-04:00Coming home... ish.Busy days lately. Yesterday was my husband's birthday and he got the best birthday present ever: our son was moved to the Level II nursery right up the street from us. I am heading over to the hospital now to take care of him during his care times... I'll have to post all about our day tonight.<br />
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Good news - he is 5 pounds 6.5 ounces, and in size 1 diapers. Wow.Shannahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02195407283530444825noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5793302897418650731.post-9226289508155534002011-03-23T22:46:00.000-04:002011-03-23T22:46:30.663-04:00Baptism PrepIn our parish church, we are required as parents to attend a Baptism preparation course before our son can receive the Sacrament in the Catholic church. It went well. The leaders of the mini-retreat were two couples, one has been married 35 years and the other 42 years. The focus of the retreat was to ensure that we were ready and willing to raise our children in the church as active members and active in their spiritual growth and faith.<br />
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The leader asked us a bunch of questions to gauge our knowledge of scripture. Sadly, I never raised my hand. I didn't want to be <i>that</i> girl that knows all the answers. My husband is just shy, so he sat quietly beside me. We couldn't get away with silence that long. One of the leaders was my CCD teacher way back when and he knew I knew the questions he asked. He was shocked when my husband was quicker to answer, but he attended Catholic school for 14+ years. I felt like a COMPLETE nerd the entire time, because out of all the couples there, Mike and I were the only ones who knew the answers to the questions.<br />
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Just because I am book smart when it comes to religion (definitely not science), it does not mean squat. I know there are four Gospels, but the girl on the side of me who has no clue who Matthew, Mark, Luke and John are may be stronger spiritually. Mike and I sure do have to grow together in a spiritual sense.<br />
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Since I got pregnant, I only attended mass at most once a month. This is the girl who was at mass every week, singing the psalms and practicing for choir twice a week. It was pretty tragic for me that I couldn't attend. I was just too sick. When all the complications began, I never attended church. Since Sam's been around, I've been three times out of seven weeks. All in all, we know we have to make it a priority to get back into it. The easiest place to learn about the word of God is in his house. Spoken like a true nerd.<br />
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Our plan is to read the bible more, try to interpret it in a way that is relevant to our everyday life and use the lessons learned. Our goal is to raise a spiritually grounded son who likes being involved in his community and gains the emotional security to choose his path for himself.Shannahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02195407283530444825noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5793302897418650731.post-12672204532093419362011-03-23T07:52:00.003-04:002011-03-23T07:56:51.076-04:0034 weeks gestation<div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">We've been keeping track of Samuel's weight and height on the premature baby curve, as well as the actual age curve. He's not yet on the charts for actual age, of course, but he is on the charts for preemies! I've forgotten to discontinue all of the emails I signed up for while pregnant. One told me that by 34 weeks pregnant, my "baby is now 4.7 pounds and just shy of 18 inches long!!" Samuel is 4 pounds 14 ounces and somewhere between seventeen and eighteen inches. </span></div><div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><br />
</span></div><div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">Little boy is perfectly average. His weight is getting to be above average. The Neonatalogist informed us that our son will likely be an average weight at 40 weeks gestation, and fall on the charts for adjusted age right at 50%. </span></div><div style="margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-top: 0px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj8YHyUFBHjb2SjaYnqdHXEf3AjYdWh2OGNfxjSuaXPgSkth3g2uBVmfEY0OQ4tSMWli7e0-XLRefrcMb2HmoLDeLdPWF4cVzIafxKqj0Ex8MGgPMScKjBHKvrdbYiQbO5t4wwX5vsxwbk/s1600/P3221257.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj8YHyUFBHjb2SjaYnqdHXEf3AjYdWh2OGNfxjSuaXPgSkth3g2uBVmfEY0OQ4tSMWli7e0-XLRefrcMb2HmoLDeLdPWF4cVzIafxKqj0Ex8MGgPMScKjBHKvrdbYiQbO5t4wwX5vsxwbk/s640/P3221257.JPG" width="510" /></span></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">Chubby cheek syndrome, Cute baby disease and Momma's Boyopathy</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">Cannot wait to continue to watch him grow!</span><br />
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</span></div>Shannahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02195407283530444825noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5793302897418650731.post-74376448586489120812011-03-21T00:12:00.000-04:002011-03-21T00:12:15.592-04:00Our nursery for SamuelS' nursery is complete-ish right about now. We are missing a few small details, like window treatments of some sort and replacing the frames with pictures of him and not that random model as shown.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhftOdcZfTcDWPXEJGcu8IKVxsNl7P4wwoRTjlcR5Kdm5_2jfHNp4dgc1I0R2ZnXqnEOJTQuuPrTR1yo0geFxqu0s5E1v3PfMF099-QceP0ukXYlyybQ9Q709LXSXk5zVgmVP1CM7dDufo/s1600/P3171040.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhftOdcZfTcDWPXEJGcu8IKVxsNl7P4wwoRTjlcR5Kdm5_2jfHNp4dgc1I0R2ZnXqnEOJTQuuPrTR1yo0geFxqu0s5E1v3PfMF099-QceP0ukXYlyybQ9Q709LXSXk5zVgmVP1CM7dDufo/s400/P3171040.JPG" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Samuel's changer and bookcase.</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgnlHV1SmDMu-oiLD2svL4ZGfXr7H4wrplxenbSayI1uptwPqaM-jHbRhwkc9WRm-LZ3vi4TPuiwq-tMB4qznF2AKnOjJkxYDE3_rjQIvxMrfUu7o7AxHvKldqUcl2eNg-8zbwTsEbZkb0/s1600/P3171041.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgnlHV1SmDMu-oiLD2svL4ZGfXr7H4wrplxenbSayI1uptwPqaM-jHbRhwkc9WRm-LZ3vi4TPuiwq-tMB4qznF2AKnOjJkxYDE3_rjQIvxMrfUu7o7AxHvKldqUcl2eNg-8zbwTsEbZkb0/s400/P3171041.JPG" width="292" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Mr. Giraffe</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj1n1X1PdU5J1bQMwqpuBmhoMW5Hc57wSM1huszrYxeCC9_O3CvZHgl3x-BDCQIqmNjfvsbRPw-SnqXij4qNuy3ndga8Vz58zhABehkW-5E6fuQGnPuqf8afDPlUSrNLTzsiPcXVuC7ljQ/s1600/P3171045.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj1n1X1PdU5J1bQMwqpuBmhoMW5Hc57wSM1huszrYxeCC9_O3CvZHgl3x-BDCQIqmNjfvsbRPw-SnqXij4qNuy3ndga8Vz58zhABehkW-5E6fuQGnPuqf8afDPlUSrNLTzsiPcXVuC7ljQ/s400/P3171045.JPG" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The armoire. This thing is massive (even though it looks small here.)</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZtq24VrscWSGb8qDyCiD_9v65MSzuuTUshgOJ3MYvjnriAB-w6qMwDta2tmHAmnd90OcGKEDvb1nqU0Rk6NSlQlLRJX5C-gnjC37I_upHMuceAPSLLd8jE2qrIIFcoBWn1cDgusiaVrs/s1600/P3171047.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZtq24VrscWSGb8qDyCiD_9v65MSzuuTUshgOJ3MYvjnriAB-w6qMwDta2tmHAmnd90OcGKEDvb1nqU0Rk6NSlQlLRJX5C-gnjC37I_upHMuceAPSLLd8jE2qrIIFcoBWn1cDgusiaVrs/s400/P3171047.JPG" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Baseball pull on the light and my grandmother's plaque from Fatima.<br />
It has been in this room for over 40 years.</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh2R5IdZgdv_F258nXk9gJiuaxP4hvPskMIb9tGjUgl2U0AV9ynQ-QgLg0MyowbLYLI4bX9RyN8kRkstLoHwNDdm3YOvxQ3VSk3EneEbPTL74mBqebN7_mlShfYQDyHbBlMglGY-2Q78ho/s1600/P3171052.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh2R5IdZgdv_F258nXk9gJiuaxP4hvPskMIb9tGjUgl2U0AV9ynQ-QgLg0MyowbLYLI4bX9RyN8kRkstLoHwNDdm3YOvxQ3VSk3EneEbPTL74mBqebN7_mlShfYQDyHbBlMglGY-2Q78ho/s400/P3171052.JPG" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Sam's rosary, given as a shower gift from a friend who visited Fatima, Portugal.</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgvRNtkl_U9x_nNw5m8NlIdpbjt6OzZZ8UrSYIn6dYHPptieVmW9tFI7BdOn59MCJTpDBjBFEFbXYdiQNnyDtlqCoxALxtXhVyLJAAILN4VbAaM2HPspAD2Cc6HjPWDA-yPBuFuiOaUO6s/s1600/P3171053.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgvRNtkl_U9x_nNw5m8NlIdpbjt6OzZZ8UrSYIn6dYHPptieVmW9tFI7BdOn59MCJTpDBjBFEFbXYdiQNnyDtlqCoxALxtXhVyLJAAILN4VbAaM2HPspAD2Cc6HjPWDA-yPBuFuiOaUO6s/s400/P3171053.JPG" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Animals play sports, right?</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiq3Ag9EDe_2jd1hyoFciUrNfGRBho_GTmz2BwNMY53HrM1J-lvZtyrsBvBLGH_xzerQERVLUJFnHHI0yc_kUt3RLhKkh7uGCcI29iyUahlxrClzHwvPrbmjz8wjQlBXJpCcFFc2uOoG_Q/s1600/P3171054.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="298" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiq3Ag9EDe_2jd1hyoFciUrNfGRBho_GTmz2BwNMY53HrM1J-lvZtyrsBvBLGH_xzerQERVLUJFnHHI0yc_kUt3RLhKkh7uGCcI29iyUahlxrClzHwvPrbmjz8wjQlBXJpCcFFc2uOoG_Q/s400/P3171054.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">See. Proof they play sports. Monkeys can dunk!</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg9Jwi50tyKtyEV-8C80KKLiZH4-Z-CioKdsMGvYULm41hy3FnU1BT2NUYCXVB0K3C1GSO-jcxCpVjoJRW2yLRftJiEWSWZFoSLh4zcbvK-O-tmoZVSJlQlEUJojwn92kNsjJF7PeRniYI/s1600/P3171055.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg9Jwi50tyKtyEV-8C80KKLiZH4-Z-CioKdsMGvYULm41hy3FnU1BT2NUYCXVB0K3C1GSO-jcxCpVjoJRW2yLRftJiEWSWZFoSLh4zcbvK-O-tmoZVSJlQlEUJojwn92kNsjJF7PeRniYI/s400/P3171055.JPG" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A soccer ball time out chair!</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiEhT8n2Fry9KzBHFv4B8EFsKsS3sriwyuKVj59_jPyIPv_9wVwSnvghow4o-pIC6jR7UqSdMHznFa7eGWv8pUaTgzlNMXUWT0vP3adBxEWS_jSAHGTUXXW_nf9Fu6wtRNjiKtruuUOZ-g/s1600/P3171058.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiEhT8n2Fry9KzBHFv4B8EFsKsS3sriwyuKVj59_jPyIPv_9wVwSnvghow4o-pIC6jR7UqSdMHznFa7eGWv8pUaTgzlNMXUWT0vP3adBxEWS_jSAHGTUXXW_nf9Fu6wtRNjiKtruuUOZ-g/s400/P3171058.JPG" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Sam's crib that he probably won't use until he's 4. I'm scared to have him so far.</td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQlGouhyphenhyphenVVh4mi8n-NOXgIi9zI3cLz8YRSxoq6Lq14wT0yKDu0r2D1Sz1x6Js0tmYghodvb3YlyXTmh6eU0ECpo2MYrB0xm2kPtWKVZDaCkNhCi5Zot1PPszdCS79YWn-2kQuGWcSoNzo/s1600/P3171062.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQlGouhyphenhyphenVVh4mi8n-NOXgIi9zI3cLz8YRSxoq6Lq14wT0yKDu0r2D1Sz1x6Js0tmYghodvb3YlyXTmh6eU0ECpo2MYrB0xm2kPtWKVZDaCkNhCi5Zot1PPszdCS79YWn-2kQuGWcSoNzo/s400/P3171062.JPG" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">My organization skillz.</td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjr3jvUQzs6MnEvyFbBgaVziahyphenhyphenkraEm97riftrkDDNuhev9nTjc5m4C-8TaGQToUAuA-oaSFHwUc83RjCkUV0TuacIDKf3ZZSUnLCWhkdpLzZ8_AOnDUOD2ycc4ZOO_Wg3Z9ycpGLioV4/s1600/P3171073.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjr3jvUQzs6MnEvyFbBgaVziahyphenhyphenkraEm97riftrkDDNuhev9nTjc5m4C-8TaGQToUAuA-oaSFHwUc83RjCkUV0TuacIDKf3ZZSUnLCWhkdpLzZ8_AOnDUOD2ycc4ZOO_Wg3Z9ycpGLioV4/s400/P3171073.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Sam's block, silver cup and ball bank next to the beginning of his book collection.</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiioxSUX4dwZUwLEqttjtMhdbLvB4LNnd-stlC1Zaxq-SJ0gPnjUSKG73_RL7PCEcrM59ZyP2i0iLhLrCwePfJZ1iEtu5K1TBt3jIl2Bp1R5MK-WtN08CBYOr4UocbCEiz3Ji7TrDTAJGY/s1600/P3171075.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiioxSUX4dwZUwLEqttjtMhdbLvB4LNnd-stlC1Zaxq-SJ0gPnjUSKG73_RL7PCEcrM59ZyP2i0iLhLrCwePfJZ1iEtu5K1TBt3jIl2Bp1R5MK-WtN08CBYOr4UocbCEiz3Ji7TrDTAJGY/s400/P3171075.JPG" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Aww.. a Giraffe seat.<br />
</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjlSAZpv3TIw99QenvOGKOis0s5wMBnJCDb_y7VYbE2hEoZqDBuyRs-0-GUvUH5QQFmCiZtoHwDUSnJGowMzBgVWtD6m6YnCF4UH501KVnRYP2TLDKo2cKHsXNoB70XXk3uqYaMVfKp5r0/s1600/P3171060.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjlSAZpv3TIw99QenvOGKOis0s5wMBnJCDb_y7VYbE2hEoZqDBuyRs-0-GUvUH5QQFmCiZtoHwDUSnJGowMzBgVWtD6m6YnCF4UH501KVnRYP2TLDKo2cKHsXNoB70XXk3uqYaMVfKp5r0/s400/P3171060.JPG" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The boy's walk in closet. Lucky kid, he gets the biggest closet in the house!</td></tr>
</tbody></table><div><br />
We can't wait to show him his room and we sure hope he likes it.</div>Shannahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02195407283530444825noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5793302897418650731.post-71646186826687968762011-03-20T12:20:00.000-04:002011-03-20T12:20:11.443-04:00Visiting policyIs it strange that I want to visit the cemetery every single day but have yet to do so? Part of me is afraid that I will break down again and lose that closure that I felt in my heart. It's unbelievable to me that my son is buried in the ground. It's incomprehensible, really. Will I always feel so afraid of my feelings or will I eventually open up and see with my eyes that it is okay to feel pain?<br />
<br />
It's hard not to come to terms with this as easily as I thought I would. I am sure I shouldn't have to. Healing takes time.Shannahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02195407283530444825noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5793302897418650731.post-35180822923876802572011-03-17T23:14:00.000-04:002011-03-17T23:14:51.681-04:002010I'm not talking about the year, but rather my little boy's weight. At this nights weigh-in, big baby boy got to 2010 grams. That is equivalent to 4 pounds 7 ounces. He was 1010g (2 pounds 4 ounces) at birth. That means he needs to gain only 10 grams to double his birth weight! This is HUGE.<br />
<br />
Some things that are happening in the NICU with S. He is off the CPAP now, and moved onto high flow nasal cannula at 4L per minutes. He went from CPAP of 7 to high flow 4L. That is considered a huge jump with a preemie and while he isn't a superstar at breathing right now, he sure is giving it his best shot.<br />
<br />
Mike, my husband, gave him his first dose of medication by mouth. S really liked it. He looked like he would lick the short syringe it was in for hours if we let him. He's precious. We also got to pick him up and put him down whenever we wanted to. We don't, because we don't want to over stimulate him. He needs his rest.<br />
<br />
But oh em gee. He's nearly double what he was born. Amazing little man he is.Shannahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02195407283530444825noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5793302897418650731.post-9558143149359900792011-03-16T16:24:00.000-04:002011-03-16T16:24:48.900-04:00Lay in peace, my babyMy sweet baby Mateus was laid to rest today. While I don't have much to say, I have to admit that while it was very hard to deal with and I took it so much worse than I thought I ever would, I have consolation in knowing he is with God. We're going to have a long life filled with reminders of how hard this time was for us. I wouldn't ever want to forget.<br />
<br />
Beautiful baby boy, you will forever fill Mommy's heart with the memories of the months you were inside me and the hours I held you in my arms. I will never, ever stop loving you.Shannahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02195407283530444825noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5793302897418650731.post-91521498505449936972011-03-16T00:15:00.002-04:002011-03-16T00:15:00.152-04:00Fly<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><iframe allowfullscreen='allowfullscreen' webkitallowfullscreen='webkitallowfullscreen' mozallowfullscreen='mozallowfullscreen' width='320' height='266' src='https://www.youtube.com/embed/eD5cg0SyMfI?feature=player_embedded' frameborder='0'></iframe></div><br />
I have been humming this tune for the past few days. I couldn't remember the words, the singer or the title until just a few moments ago. Celine Dion happens to sing many songs that mean something to me. There aren't words better than these right now.<br />
<br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 18px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><i>Fly, fly little wing<br />
Fly beyond imagining<br />
The softest cloud, the whitest dove<br />
Upon the wind of heaven's love<br />
Past the planets and the stars<br />
Leave this lonely world of ours<br />
Escape the sorrow and the pain<br />
And fly again<br />
<br />
Fly, fly precious one<br />
Your endless journey has begun<br />
Take your gentle happiness<br />
Far too beautiful for this<br />
Cross over to the other shore<br />
There is peace forevermore<br />
But hold this mem'ry bittersweet<br />
Until we meet<br />
<br />
Fly, fly do not fear<br />
Don't waste a breath, don't shed a tear<br />
Your heart is pure, your soul is free<br />
Be on your way, don't wait for me<br />
Above the universe you'll climb<br />
On beyond the hands of time<br />
The moon will rise, the sun will set<br />
But I won't forget<br />
<br />
Fly, fly little wing<br />
Fly where only angels sing<br />
Fly away, the time is right<br />
Go now, find the light</i></span></span>Shannahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02195407283530444825noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5793302897418650731.post-52886965153086062522011-03-15T15:03:00.000-04:002011-03-15T15:03:12.011-04:00I need controlI am a complete control freak. I need to know every last detail of every last thing going around me, and if (when) I don't like how it's going, I change it. Simply, I'm nuts.<br />
<br />
Right now, I cannot handle the fact that I couldn't control my pregnancy a little better and have both of my boys. I cried one time over the loss of my son, and I never thought twice that it must have had a purpose. I never dwelled on my loss but focused strongly on making sure S was safe and healthy. Today, I really don't like myself at all for this. Everyone, including social workers, therapists, counselors... they all said my outlook and positivity was healthy and my strength was admirable. I feel like I was a coward.<br />
<br />
My husband was a little different. He felt the loss immediately, and then after worried each and every minute of the day about me and our unborn baby. He was more realistic and human about the loss of our baby. I tried to be superwoman. Now here I am, sobbing uncontrollably at the thought of burying our sweet baby boy. Words cannot express how resentful I am that I didn't give myself the time to grieve. I cried once. One time. I didn't cry while holding is tiny, lifeless body. I didn't cry when I made the arrangements for an autopsy.<br />
<br />
I cried when they took him away to the hospital morgue and the reality set in that I would never, ever see him again. Pictures cannot take the place of holding your child, feeding them, watching them grow. He will never get the chance his brother has and I cry now knowing I will not watch him grow. I cry tears for the birthdays we'll never celebrate and the fun we'll never have. I cry because I cannot control the outcome. I sob because I cannot control my feelings.<br />
<br />
I cry, cry and cry. All I can do is cry.Shannahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02195407283530444825noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5793302897418650731.post-62945961704895982592011-03-15T12:47:00.001-04:002011-03-15T12:48:16.253-04:00The greatest sadnessS has moved on to nasal cannula today, for oxygen support. That is a large step for him. The doctors are going to do it on a trial basis. If he cannot handle moving from the continuous pressure to the oxygen, then he'll go back to CPAP but on a lower level of pressure. He sure makes our life feel complete with each little thing he does.<br />
<br />
One part that we're missing more so every day is his beloved twin brother, Mateus. M passed away in utero on December 5, 2010 at 18 weeks and 5 days gestation. My body took two days to prepare itself, but on Tuesday, December 7, I delivered him without any interruption to S. The interval delivery of twins was so uncommon at my home hospital, that the OB who was there said in his 40 years, he'd only seen in a handful of times.<br />
<br />
In our sadness, we still had great joy. Days passed and S was strong, his legs kicked more and his heart beat steady. After 7 weeks and three days of bed rest, S made it into the world. While bittersweet, we were completely overjoyed to have a baby, early or not. S has filled us with hope and given us a new outlook. He's a gift his brother needed to give us.<br />
<br />
Wednesday, the 16th of March, we will lay our baby boy to rest. We have a dozen or so pictures of him and the hospital was so kind to get his footprints for us. It would be so wonderful to have the two of them grow together. Words cannot express how devastating our loss is to us. His place is Heaven has been secured. Forever, S will have his brother taking each and every step with him as his guardian angel.<br />
<br />
Baby Mateus, you will never be forgotten. Forever cherished. Always loved.Shannahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02195407283530444825noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5793302897418650731.post-15724056465126670202011-03-12T21:57:00.000-05:002011-03-12T21:57:52.124-05:00Change da cloxThat was one of my Facebook friend's status' today. Yup, yo Change da clox. Since we're springing forward, it'll change S' schedule quite a bit. We're moving from 8-11-2-5 to 9-12-3-6. Of course, we don't mind too much, but since my husband works and we usually don't get to the hospital together until 4:30 and we leave around 8:30, we'll only catch one care time! It's different for me, since I get to see him all day long, but he's a fan of diaper changes so S' primary nurse might try to keep him at that schedule.<br />
<br />
So much good in our life right now! I can't wait until I have more than a minute to catch up.Shannahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02195407283530444825noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5793302897418650731.post-1662886051398203262011-03-12T08:45:00.000-05:002011-03-12T08:45:41.066-05:00A New Day has Come<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Celine Dion is one smart lady. She hires some brilliant writers, that's for sure!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><iframe allowfullscreen='allowfullscreen' webkitallowfullscreen='webkitallowfullscreen' mozallowfullscreen='mozallowfullscreen' width='320' height='266' src='https://www.youtube.com/embed/Eg9jQOebTo8?feature=player_embedded' frameborder='0'></iframe></div><br />
I cannot get over how much this song hits so close to me. Right deep down into my heart. I cannot get over how lucky and BLESSED I am. Everything good in the world can be found in those two big eyes that stare back at me happily as I sing to him. Nothing can ever change the long road it took for my miracle to come. After tragedy, there should always remain hope!Shannahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02195407283530444825noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5793302897418650731.post-129822643046927172011-03-11T21:33:00.001-05:002011-03-11T21:34:05.469-05:001700 gramsLittle man is not budging from 1700 grams. He apparently thinks 3 pounds 12 ounces is a good number for him. He doesn't realize that staying 1700 grams for 4 days straight will concern his nurses and in turn, concern his parents? Fortunately, his doctor isn't thinking much of it. He started his diuretics this week and has been losing the water weight he was holding on to.<br />
<br />
What weighs 1700 grams? A quick Google search tells me this:<br />
<ul><li>a dolphin's brain,</li>
<li>the brain of the leading poet of the Russian Revolution, Vladimir Vladimirovich Mayakovsky,</li>
<li>one liter of Hydriotic Acid,</li>
<li>the brains of two camels, </li>
<li>and a fetus at about 32 weeks gestation.</li>
</ul><div>That's right, everybody. Baby S is growing right on par. A 32-weeker would be about 3 pounds 12 ounces if he came today. That news makes momma happy. A fun tidbit? Einstein's brain weighed 1492 grams when he died. S outweighs that and then some! </div><div><br />
</div><div>If S doesn't gain a little weight over the weekend, his breast milk will be mixed with formula to make it 30 calories. Breast milk, straight from "the tap" is 20 calories per ounce. He's currently getting his milk at 27 calories, so hopefully without a weight gain this weekend, a boost in calories will mean a boost in weight. The golden rule for S is as he gains, his lungs grow and he gets stronger.</div>Shannahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02195407283530444825noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5793302897418650731.post-86651486127636288502011-03-11T11:47:00.000-05:002011-03-11T08:44:39.914-05:00Six Weeks Ago...You were born.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgDqhTaWiSwY4bTY8EQi69pxTyBcdBF_t-VzvDXnxGvGj9tCEk4TTWEvAtEk5JyWoLE33rTF7NNb-AdRQ5_qhYo-9MCzrjQIusywOWjUI-L9HZBWyJDKsQS4iVqBXAqpypwduGAwlI6wQ4/s1600/IMG_1106.JPG" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgDqhTaWiSwY4bTY8EQi69pxTyBcdBF_t-VzvDXnxGvGj9tCEk4TTWEvAtEk5JyWoLE33rTF7NNb-AdRQ5_qhYo-9MCzrjQIusywOWjUI-L9HZBWyJDKsQS4iVqBXAqpypwduGAwlI6wQ4/s320/IMG_1106.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">That was little baby S at 4 hours old, weighing 2 pounds 4 ounces... lots of that water weight. A few days later, he dropped down to 1 pound 14 ounces. Now, six weeks later, he has doubled that number! </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjqEQzKJUhZKmecpO6_5FUOQW272hDUgDJOmQU5CCm1oD12UHePNOANdOBHjlyokgsKqsNyupeDidoaGWi-YyGD6Ze9zmulAmFm3nuH_IN8AsYEa2waGfnBKEjrnyscSY_UCnOq1mknR9w/s1600/IMG_0025.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="235" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjqEQzKJUhZKmecpO6_5FUOQW272hDUgDJOmQU5CCm1oD12UHePNOANdOBHjlyokgsKqsNyupeDidoaGWi-YyGD6Ze9zmulAmFm3nuH_IN8AsYEa2waGfnBKEjrnyscSY_UCnOq1mknR9w/s320/IMG_0025.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Mr. S has brought so much joy to our lives already. Along with his care staff, we have a set of lofty goals for him to keep in mind. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"></div><ul><li>Be the President of the United States at 36 y.o.</li>
<li>Become a Hall of Fame pitcher for the Boston Red Sox by the age of 35. :)</li>
<li>While playing for the Red Sox, he will spend his down time studying in Cambridge at Harvard. One of his Neonatologists has offered to pen a wonderful letter of recommendation. </li>
<li>During his childhood and young adulthood, we expect him to give us headaches, have lots of friends and be happy. We want him to grow knowing what a <i>miracle</i> he is.</li>
</ul><div>Out of these goals set, the last is probably the most realistic. Sweet, beautiful baby boy. We love you.</div>Shannahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02195407283530444825noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5793302897418650731.post-82883442819194297962011-03-11T09:34:00.000-05:002011-03-11T09:34:59.883-05:00What's up for the Weekend?Today, I am super excited that Hubster has the day off. We're going to get some things done in S's nursery and grab some necessities at Michael's craft store (because I am obsessed). Once we get all those things done, we're going to spend most of the day at the hospital with baby. We might even go for dinner out tonight. It'll be a treat.<br />
<br />
Tomorrow, I'm going shopping for some things with my mother and then visiting S with her. After my husband gets home from work, we'll go back together to spend the evening there. He's getting more attentive to us, and we find he spends most of his awake time in the afternoon/evening, because that's when he is used to having us there.<br />
<br />
I have my cousin's daughter's First Communion invitations to finish. They're pretty complicated pocketfolds that I was crazy enough to make myself. They're worth it. Madison is awesome.<br />
<br />
Sunday, there are no plans made yet. I assume we'll just... hang out at the hospital! He's a fun kid to be with. What's on tap for you this weekend?Shannahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02195407283530444825noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5793302897418650731.post-39900767132784229032011-03-10T22:25:00.000-05:002011-03-10T22:26:39.741-05:00Back in the day: BBMakToday, a few of my online friends and I had a poll about music, concerts, etc. I was excited to see that one of these friends saw the band "BBMak" in concert. Really. Had she not mentioned them, I would've forgotten all the join that band brought me. From their cameo appearance in "On the Line," that D- movie featuring Lance Bass and Joey Fatone to their days opening for NSYNC themselves, they lit up many ladies lives for a few weeks. So... I looked them up on wikipedia. Their single "Back Here" made it to number one in the US on the adult contemporary charts!<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><iframe allowfullscreen='allowfullscreen' webkitallowfullscreen='webkitallowfullscreen' mozallowfullscreen='mozallowfullscreen' width='320' height='266' src='https://www.youtube.com/embed/8ksOtDmBwp0?feature=player_embedded' frameborder='0'></iframe></div>That video shows me why I love late 90s pop music: BBMak, Mandy Moore, 2/5's of NSYNC! Which brings me to my next argument. Why did Lance rap in that song? He totally doesn't pull it off. And why didn't Joey Fatone get more solos with NSYNC? He has an amazing voice!<br />
<br />
Off to download some NSYNC, Mandy Moore and BBMak.Shannahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02195407283530444825noreply@blogger.com0