The Big 4-0

We made it...40 weeks today!  We are the size of a small pumpkin, folks.  Little Mr. Rinella is officially due today, but as we've seen, that date really means zilch.  He feels like he's pretty big though.  I am wondering if he knows where to go in there because all I feel are legs, feet, knees, and back in my upper belly and sometimes I can't even bend because he's there.  I'm really thinking I can start gathering up his "newborn/infant-sized" clothing and pack it up cause this beefcake might come out already driving. 
 

I'm very happy and excited that my mom will be here tomorrow night!  It will be so wonderful to have her and it's very reassuring to have the extra support when I really need it the most.  Hopefully, Grandma ("Manna") will get to experience her newest grandson's worldly entrance.  Mom, thank you in advance for being at the hospital.  This might not be the most comfortable stay, but I promise it WILL be memorable!
   

We still plan on going into the hospital Monday night for induction round 2.  The doctor really wants to help me try and deliver this boy naturally and thinks that inducing is the best way.  Who knows how long this could take otherwise.  However he comes, we'll all be ready to greet him. 

Daddy and Grandpa 

Little one, they are waiting for you,

and they're so excited for the next generation!

Anything worth having is worth waiting for...

Still.  No.  Baby. 

This week has been a ROLLER COASTER and I can't believe I haven't gone completely insane.  I'm trying to stay unwavering and strong for what I know eventually is coming.  Easier said than done.  I just never thought that we'd be having so many unpredictable twists and turns to all this...but like any experience in parenting, you truly just never know. 

This was "optimistic Karen" yesterday before going into the hospital. 

I won't show you "tired, emotionally crazy, poked-and-prodded, frustrated, confused, and if-one-more-person-sticks-there-hand-up-there-I'm-gonna-flip Karen because of course there are no pictures for that.  Phil and I were delirious from that last 24 hours of trying everything and getting nowhere.  I just had to trust my instincts and go home to get rested.  We'll see what's in store for the next few days, and then the doctor wants to repeat the induction for after my due date.  One thing we knew leaving the hospital, we made the right choice.  A lot can happen in 3-4 days and we will try again.  This is TWICE now, leaving the hospital with lots of high hopes and no baby.  So, will the 3rd time be a charm?  I hope.  After a very much needed night's rest, I feel better.  Just hoping that our baby will give us some sign that he's *almost* ready.  Good thing I'm a patient person.  Thanks for all the prayers and support, everyone.  xoxo    

Pizza, Promises, and Pitocin

When Phil and I got home last night, we had a spontaneous celebratory we're-not-at-the-hospital-having-surgery pizza party. Very fun.

Now, we're gearing up for another fun celebration...

It's a Party!

What: Labor and Delivery Game Plan #2

Where: Banner Baywood Hospital

When: Tomorrow Night!

Why: We're Getting Induced!

Baby is still head down and cooperating so the doctor wanted to do an induction.  I am all for it and just want to strike while the iron is hot.  I go in tomorrow night, stay all night for a 12 hour cervical ripening, and then they will start the induction of pitocin to start labor contractions on Thursday morning.  Doctor Semrad promised me that this time, pack my bags for real because we won't be leaving the hospital without a baby. :)  Hopefully, if all goes well, you'll be hearing some good news by Thursday night.  Let's do this!

My nerves have significantly calmed since finding out the baby turned.  I feel like the weight of the world was lifted off my shoulders and it still gives me the chills to think about the little miracle that will soon be joining us.  But sorry, little one--we didn't save any pizza for you. :(



Thrills, Chills, and Suspense

Theatrics.  That's all I have to say.  Our baby boy just earned himself the Academy Award.  Whether he was playing possum or just wanted to keep us on our toes, he has made this a day we will NEVER forget.  I guess he didn't want to be evicted after all, he'd rather leave on his own terms.  Here's what happened...

Yesterday, I did everything I could to try and relax.  I got a pedicure and a massage, and I was like a ravenous boar (nerves) just eating and doing little "chores" to get things ready.  I had that "burst of energy" or whatever it's called when you just suddenly jump up and start doing things left and right.  Then, Philly and I got everything ready, tied up all loose ends, and finished making last minute arrangements.  We were very productive.  Meanwhile, our son was waiting for us to find out that the joke was on mom and dad--he is a prankster already. 


Right before leaving the house for the hospital

We arrived at the hospital this morning and got all checked in. 



Serenity Garden



That smile was forced...I was SCARED out of my mind.

We were taken to a room and I got dressed in that beautiful hospital gown.  The nurses started monitoring baby and me right away.  Nurse Joan did an abdominal exam and where she'd expected to feel his breech head, she did not feel it.  "Believe me," she said, "I've felt plenty of baby heads, and it's not up there."  Phil and I just looked at each other.  She left the room and came back with the ultrasound machine.  Sure enough, his head was down and he was in a perfect position.  Silence.  And then shock and disbelief.  And then smiles and the ultimate relief.  I was in awe.  This baby did not want his mama to have surgery after all.  I cannot tell you the feelings I felt in that room.  I have never psyched myself up for anything so much, gathered up every last ounce of courage I could, only to be blown away by this surprise twist.  How this happened I'll never know, but here are some of the things that I tried during the last few weeks: I swam, I turned upside down in the pool, I did pelvic tilts, I put frozen vegetables on his head to get him to move, I went to the chiropractor for a few adjustments, and I PRAYED constantly.  But as of Tuesday, he was still breech.  Well, I guess this is another lesson for me to NEVER LOSE FAITH.  And also that you can make the best of plans, but sometimes, even those can change on a dime. 



Head down and ready to go.  Our little "Houdini"

Surgery was cancelled and we were sent home.  Now it's back to the "waiting game."  And it's back to the doctor's office tomorrow morning.  I hope this goes by quickly because the last 6 days were excruciatingly long.  I know I'm in for LOTS more waiting though, and it's okay.  I am not disappointed by any means that we don't have our baby today because it was not meant to be.  He will tell us when he's ready.  Sorry to get everyone all excited, we'll all just have to be patient.  The saga continues...



We're coming back home.  No baby today.  See you soon!

It's "Baby's Eve"

This is it.  My last day of being pregnant.  That is so strange to say.  But in about 24 hours, I will become a new mama and get to "unwrap" the best gift of my life.  As I was lying in bed this morning, I was extra still so that I could feel every little squirm and movement of my baby.  I sure will miss having him this close, but I am beyond ready to meet him and greet him with tons of kisses and hugs.  The countdown is on.  And it's not days anymore, it's hours.  Holy Moly.


To My Little Love,
Since last October, you have made me the happiest mama-to-be in the world.  With each week that you grew, so did our love for you.  You never once made me uncomfortable, and you delighted me each time I saw your face on that ultrasound.  Your lively kicks always reminded me that you were there.  The next time I wake up, I'll be holding you in a very short while.

We are ready for you, dear little one. 

6.18.12

That's 3 even numbers, all multiples of 6. I like the mathematical look to that birthday. Here's what we know about this day so far: You will share a birthday with singer/songwriter Paul McCartney, baseball outfielder Lou Brock, and model/film actress Isabella Rossellini.  You are a Gemini and your strengths are "lively," "money-wise," and "influential."  (Taken from, The Secret Language of Birthdays)
P.S. I'm bringing your baby book to the hospital in the hopes that I can get the nurses to stamp your little feet in there. 

*****************************************************************************

"Daddy's Diaper Duty"

This project was created by Philly in an effort to score loads of diapers for our new baby.  Every 10 diapers brought into the store by customers earns them one raffle ticket.  After the baby is born, he will raffle off the Hot Corner Sports Cards gift card and one lucky winner will get to spend $300.  He did amazing, as we currently have just shy of 1800 diapers.  Plus we have lots more at home from our baby shower.  This little one will always have a clean tush.



Father's Day breakfast at Starbucks.  Daddy's excited for tomorrow!

******************************************************************************************

Today marked 39 weeks of pregnancy.  Baby is the size of a mini watermelon (tell me about it).  We absolutely cannot wait to experience this amazing journey's end.  Thank you to all our family and friends who have been so supportive and givers of constant love and positive thoughts.  We will be sure to update the blog with pictures and baby fun as soon as we can. 

If anyone wants to come visit me in the hospital, I like snacks.  And ice cream.  And I LOVE Rice Krispie Bars  :) Just kidding, you don't have to bring anything.  But really, I won't refuse food or treats.  Just saying.

Happy Father's Day to all the daddies.

Thank you, all, for keeping up with my blog!  I shall return soon!

Love, Karen

Mark your calendar, he's a-comin'!

I feel like Doogie Howser, M.D. Remember at the end of his show, he'd sit down to type at the computer and we would see his thoughts come to life on the screen?  Yesterday, I wouldn't have known where to start.  It was a roller coaster of emotions.  We went from the ultrasound and seeing that our baby's head is still nestled snugly up near my rib cage, to being examined by the doctor, to talking about our next move, to me sitting in the lab chair getting my blood drawn, to being handed a folder from the hospital about what time my surgery would be...all in a matter of 2 hours.  Needless to say, I was a basketcase (thank you to my wonderful husband for being so steady and strong and for just reminding me that everything will be just fine). 

I knew in the back of my mind it was a possibility that we'd be heading down this road, but when I saw the date and time of surgery written on that piece of paper, it just seemed so...final.  But after lots of mixed emotions, tears, and some temporary moments of sheer panic, today I am much more at ease with our decision to trust that the doctor knows what's best for baby and me.  The doctor went to great lengths to thoroughly explain to us the reasons why this is the best route to get him here safely.  He explained the risks of delivering a breech baby naturally, and gave us all of the information we needed to understand how a c-section is the advisable method for our situation.  Our baby will come into this world in a controlled environment with no complications.  I can't ask for anything more than knowing that his health and safety are the utmost priority.  His estimated weight as of yesterday was about 8 lbs.  Right before the c-section, they will do one final scan to check his position (unlikely that he will flip, but still possible!) and we'll go from there. 

Soooo, here we we are with 4 more days to go.  I can't believe that the time is almost upon us.  Our baby will make his grand entrance on Monday, June 18 at Banner Baywood Hospital.  We will arrive at 10:30 am, and surgery is scheduled for 12:30 pm.  I can't wait to finally see this little charmer and hold him in my arms.

Dear Phil, did I mention this is your Father's Day present?  I hope you love it!



38 weeks, 2 days

Yes, I am nervous, but I know everything will go smoothly.  We are in great hands with the doctors and medical staff, and we appreciate all of the support of family and friends.  Thank you for your continued prayers.  Once I have that baby in my arms, I'm sure I'll forget I even had surgery. 

To Be Continued...

Waiting

Waiting

Dear baby, here beneath my heart,
I thought that you might come today;
The timing seemed just right.

But the stars are out and the moon is high
and sheepishly I wonder why
I try to arrange the plans of God.

For now I know you will not come
until the one who holds eternity
rustles your soft cocoon
and whispers in tones I will not hear,
"it's time, precious gift."

"Now it's time."

-by Robing Jones Gunn

I really really love that poem.  It made me cry.  It is so true, like Phil's Aunt Eleanor said, "When the fruit is ripe, it will fall from the tree."  I'm just getting so excited, it's hard to wait.  Today, I've cleaned the toilet, grocery shopped, made lists, crossed them off, and done about every non-important chore that I can think of as a distraction.  It's not helping.  But I'm still feeling great, still feeling the baby move--a lot (I'm wondering if he's river-dancing in there).  Tuesday we see his little face again at the doctor's appointment and ultrasound.  I can't wait.  I'm getting heartsick to meet this little boy angel.  Don't worry, I'll keep you all updated.  *14* days to go...

I was standing in line at Starbucks when...

I was standing in line at the Starbuck's inside the Safeway grocery store, and had just ordered my iced tea when a complete stranger came up to me, and said, "Honey, I'd like to pay for your drink today."  Um, okay...I thought, do I know this person?  I told her that was so sweet of her to offer but she didn't have to pay for my drink.  Well, but she insisted.  She told me that she saw me standing there and wanted to do something nice for me.  After basic introductions, she went on to say that she doesn't ever go to Starbucks, but that she had a gift card that she wanted to spend and make someone smile that day.  "Are you sure?" I asked again (cause I had news for her that I didn't just order ONE drink--I had ordered TWO).  She didn't care.  She paid for them both.  And then she asked me when the baby was coming, put her hand on my belly, and recited a prayer for a safe and smooth delivery for mama and baby.  Normally, I might have been very taken aback, but I felt very at peace with the whole meeting.  We had a nice little conversation, I let her know how much I appreciated her kind gesture, and we parted ways.  What a nice way to start my day.  You just never know what's going to happen at any given moment.  Thank you, Barbara at Safeway.

It's been like that for a few days now.  I have little angels just doing wonderful things for me everywhere I turn.  And it's like the nicest thing ever to relish each distraction as a break from the worry and nerves I've been trying to ignore with each passing day.  Whether it's just a friendly text to check in, a visit or a phone call, I appreciate all the concern.  Just within the last week, I've had several little "deliveries" made to me at work by kind family members and friends including: a cozy new pair of slippers, a smoothie, homemade banana bread, a cool caprese salad and popcicle on a hot day, and a box of cream puffs.  I am just so thankful for the people that are taking such good care of me and looking out for my well-being. 

So here we are with *18* days to go!  We are rounding 3rd base and headed for home plate folks.  But I'm not running toward the finish line, of course.  It would look more like a waddle at this point.  I'm taking my time because I'm still convinced that this little guy is going to turn.  One common thread that I've noticed in talking with lots of mommies who've been there before me is that by the time they are at this point, they are so anxious just to get the baby OUT that they are willing to go through whatever pain is necessary just to find relief.  Me, I am NOT in that same boat.  I have been so lucky with this pregnancy.  Other than being concerned about his position and the normal first-timer jitters, he is not causing me ANY discomfort, and I am still sleeping somewhat comfortably at night.  I really have no complaints.  The only thing I can't seem to shake is the series of intense dreams I'm having at night.  I guess the natural anxiety of upcoming labor and new responsibilities fuel some strange flights of unconscious fancy.  But you can't have dreams if you're not sleeping so again, no complaints here. 

This mama is happy these days.  Although I am very excited to see my little one's face, I am in no hurry to bring on the ouchies either, so I'm taking this last couple of weeks or so and making the best of it.  I'm trying to convince Phil that we need to do a "Babymoon" this weekend, just go somewhere--the two of us--and soak up the last drops of "freedom" we have before the craziness commences.  So, hopefully, if feeling up to it, we'll do something, maybe just get to a pool and relax or out to dinner.  Kayleigh is leaving today with her mom and step-dad's family on a 10-day cruise.  Lucky girl, I know!  She was worried about leaving for fear that she might miss the baby's arrival, but Phil and I have assured her that he will come when he's supposed to come, and that little brother would never hold it against her if she's not there for his immediate entrance. 

We have one more ultrasound next Tuesday to check baby's size and position.  From there, I have a feeling the doctor will either say we're good to go, or want to schedule a c-section if he still hasn't moved head down on his own by then.  If the baby decides to turn before the c-section, surgery can always be cancelled.  Nothing like waiting til the last minute.  But such is life.  And we can't really get frustrated at him because both of his parents either A) work well under pressure, or B) have been known to procrastinate from time to time.  (I'll let you guess which one is which). 

We're also watching for these memorable June dates on our calendar...perhaps our little one will share a birthday with a friend or loved one: Tara's birthday (15th), Father's Day (17th), Bryan's birthday (20th), Fletcher's birthday (22nd).



Saw my little baby's nickname on a wine label and had to take that shot! 



At an anniversary party for good friends...
that's not sweat on my face, it's called a "glow."
Okay, it's sweat.  We're upon hot times here people!

June Jitterbugs

The month of June is finally here!

Baby's due date is drawing near.

Hospital bag is ready and packed,

Laundry folded, diapers stacked.

Nervous feelings, excitement grows,

Can't wait to see little fingers and toes.

With each new passing day we wait,

Will he come early, will he be late?

Nine months of waiting, elation and joy,

It's almost time to meet our baby boy!
-KLR

I can't believe it's finally June.  This is the month we've anticipated for so long now, and ready or not, here we are.  June can really be a HOT month in Arizona, but so far, it hasn't been too bad.  But I speak too soon because we are expecting a temperature high today of 111.  Yikes.  Technically, we're supposed to be wearing *less* this time of year, but I have never had *more* of me to have to cover up so it's been interesting.  Thank you to my wonderful friend Jo Ellen for the box of summery maternity clothes.  It arrived just in time, my friend!  My product endorsement of the month is Anti Monkey Butt.  It's wonderful and works amazingly in preventing getting too swampy or sticky in any of those areas that you really don't want to be swampy or sticky.  And my song of the month is Maroon 5 "Harder to Breathe."    



Beautiful Desert Vegetation

Thank you, Jo Jo!

We're still waiting for our little meatloaf to turn around--please keep saying prayers, I know he's listening.  I'm going to try and go swimming this weekend in the hopes that he will do some fancy aquatic twirls and find a new position with his head down.  He's making his mama nervous by cutting it so close.  But breech or not, we will find a way to get him outta here when he's ready.  Next doctor appointment is Tuesday and we'll be checking for any signs that he is getting ready to make a grand entrance.

(This week, he's the size of crenshaw melon.)