to the hospital we go

Last belly shot . . . 36 weeks 3 days
I wanted a picture with the dogs before they meet their new brother . . . it was chaos as you can see. They were just so excited!

Here we go . . .

ready for the c-section

the story of little Henry's arrival

things have changed quite a bit from our last post . . . as you know, our precious gift arrived on Sunday, January 13th. to recap . . .

last saturday (the 12th) my contractions started to increase; they were not patterned though. somewhere around 4am Sunday morning they picked up and were more regular. I also had sort of a weird pain in the top of my abdomen that would not go away. needless to say, I moved to the couch and turned on the TV as I was not really resting. We don't really watch a lot of television (other than sports), but we do both enjoy the Food Network. Gary got up around 8am and came into the living room and joined me in watching Bobby Flay prepare one of his delicious meals on Food TV. Just as Bobby was ending and Michael Chiarello was beginning, my water broke. It was the wildest feeling! The contractions strengthened in intensity and we called the hospital, gave them a heads up we would be coming, and started getting things ready. Since we figured he was still breech, we knew that a C-section was inevitable and that since my water broke, they would want to do the c-section as soon as they could. We did a few things around the house, made sure the dogs were settled and fed, and took a few pictures. We got to the hospital around 10:45am that morning and guess who was working on the labor and delivery floor? My friend Paige from Junior League. She was awesome and it was so nice to have a friendly and familiar face to be taking care of us.

They confirmed my water had indeed broke, that he was still breech and that I was dilated 3 centimeters. Around 12pm they came in and said they would be taking me back to the operating room at 1pm. Henry was delivered via c-section at 1:26pm weighing in at 7 pounds, 6 ounces and was 20.5 inches in length. Gary did great in the operating room and as nervous as anesthesia makes me, everything went well with regards to spinal and the surgery. I was able to see Henry for about a minute and then he and Gary were whisked away to the nursery while they finished the surgery and I was in recovery.

We were discharged from EAMC yesterday and arrived home safely. Henry arrived about three and half weeks early, but we were ready and feel great about the sequence of events. He has captured our hearts already!

Pictures coming soon . . . and, one thing to point out . . . some of you got back on the blog and voted on his arrival date "to win" so to speak. When we left for the hospital, the earliest "guess" was the Jan. 16th range. There was one vote for that range, and that vote was mine and was placed about 3 weeks ago. Weird eh?

Stubborn already?

Henry update . . . I went in on Thursday afternoon for my doctor's appointment. Everything looks good, heartbeat was 131, sugar and protein levels were fine. I have gained a total of 24.5 pounds thus far.

However, either my doc was wrong last week or Henry has moved because he is breech. He is far enough along now where he won't move to the head down position on his own. So, we are going to try a procedure called external cephalic version (ECV), in which the doctor manually tries to move him to the head down position by pressing and moving my stomach.

In order to do this, Henry's amniotic fluid levels need to be sufficient and he needs to weigh less than 7.5 pounds. To find out if he meets these two criteria we will have to have another ultrasound. So, we are going in Monday at 7:45am for the ultrasound to see if ECV is indeed a viable option.

If so, I will go into the hospital on probably Wednesday to have the ECV done. If not, we will have to schedule a c-section. I know people have c-sections all the time and it's a common procedure, but I am still hopeful that we can avoid this route. Bottom line, we will be elated with a healthy baby however the type of delivery.

Will keep you posted on the events of next week as we know more . . .

almost 36 weeks

I'm asking that the photographer does not zoom in for these "second" belly shots anymore . . . yikes!

My doctor said last week Henry is definitely head down and should stay that way. He also said I'm measuring ahead of schedule . . . we will see if that proves to be true. His guess on weight was that Henry is around six pounds or so. Everything is still going well. Our bags are packed, car seat is installed, everything is washed, and lists are made. We are ready!

Who are thou, lone voter . . .

the one who is guessing the weight of over 9 pounds and who is estimating an arrival between Feb. 17th-23rd . . . make yourself known!

All the Best in 2008

We have no pictures to post today . . . just a few thoughts.

Raise your glasses to: good health in the coming year, creating fond memories with family and friends, healing and peace for those who are ailing, a spirit of generosity and kindness to fellow mankind, continuing to enjoy the little things in life, strengthening relationships, and always maintaining a positive and thankful attitude.

Gary and I were reading 2 Peter and came across a verse that we thought would be so nice to keep in mind as our family grows. Then we thought it would be a good one to reflect upon as we begin a new year . . . "Grow in the grace and knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. To Him be the glory both now and forever!" 2 Peter 3:18

A few other notes . . .

Today the high in Auburn is in the mid-40's. I love this type of weather; it makes you feel alive! Sue and Kevin were supposed to get ten inches of snow last night . . . and while snow would be even better, we'll take the brisk temps.

The Henry Polls . . . maybe not as exciting as the Iowa caucus, but several folks have asked "What will the winner receive?" Since there is no way to identify your vote and the ranges allow multiple votes, we have not come up with a decent prize. Suggestions anyone?

New Year's Resolutions . . . last year Gary resolved to stop all New Year's resolutions. I resolved to finish reading a book before starting another one. For Gary, he met his resolution-ha! He is very proud. For me, I almost met my resolution, with the exception of two books, the Collected Stories of Eudora Welty and Dean Koontz's "The Good Guy." For 2008, Gary continues to NOT have a resolution. He is reveling in this guaranteed method of achieving his resolutions! For 2008 for me, my goal is to not be rushed and be late, but to consistently be on time or even early. With the exception of going to work, it always seems like I am running a few minutes behind. It doesn't take a rocket scientist to conclude that adding another person for which to be responsible will only impact this tardiness even further. So, I resolve to take the necessary steps to change this habit altogether.

Last but certainly not least, WAR EAGLE! Auburn's overtime win over Clemson ended yet another great football season. This year had its ups and downs, but a 9-4 season is not too shabby all things considered.

Cheers!

Merry Christmas

We hope everyone had a wonderful Christmas!

Look at these perfectly posed pups . . . we love them so!

A long december and there's reason to believe . . .

maybe this year will be better than the last. Well last year wasn't terrible, but we'll take this year. We think it is very interesting that:

1.) you readers think Henry will arrive so late and 2.) you think that he will be a big boy

I wish there was a way to tell who voted what dates and weights! Oh well.

My sister came over a few weekends ago and took some photographs.

The roman shades are done and hung in Henry's room.

Updates

Good news-Bricks made it through his last round of heartworm injections. He is in good spirits, not much of an appetite, but other than that he is doing well. We are glad to have him back home! He must continue his "low activity" routine for the next 30 days and then things are back to normal. We think he really likes the low activity part of the treatment . . . it means him staying inside on these cold days, and him finding a place to curl up and nap somewhere he is not supposed to (like on the couch). He and Savannah keep wandering into Henry's room and playing with Henry's toys . . . stuffed animals, rubber duckies, you name it. I guess they are "leaving their mark" so Henry knows it's okay to share. Ha!

Last night we had our final childbirth class. These classes have been informative (and crowded) for the most part. One last exercise they had everyone do was to think about your child 18 years from now . . . they provided a list of character traits and asked you to circle the ones important to you and then list the top five traits that you would want your child to demonstrate.

Gary's top five: spiritual, healthy, caring, resourceful and honest
Summer's top five: spiritual, thoughtful/caring, selfless/generous, reflective and respectful

There were a lot of traits from which to choose, so it was slightly difficult to select your top five. We both enjoyed this exercise though.

Lastly, we have some friends here in Auburn, Scott and Miki Parker, who need your prayers. On November 29, 2007, Carly Parker (their oldest daughter, age 7) was diagnosed with Ewings sarcoma (or PNET) filling her nasal passage. They thought she just had sinus problems and then discovered the sarcoma. Right now, the cancer is self contained. So they have started chemo to reduce/shrink the tumor. Because of where the tumor is located, they can not operate to remove it because it will severely disfigure her face. She is a petite girl to begin with, but has lost 10 pounds and really struggles to take her medicines and shots. Scott and Miki have adopted an extremely positive attitude and are showing amazing strength. I can not imagine the roller coaster of emotions they have experienced over the last 3 weeks. They have set up a Caring Bridge website (see link below), and are keeping everyone updated regularly. Carly starts another round of chemo today, this time a bit stronger and with more intense side effects, so please say a special prayer for the Parker family today. Never underestimate or underappreciate the benefits of good health and nutrition.

http://www.caringbridge.org/visit/carlyparker

32 weeks

32 week belly. Notice our tree, which we cut two weeks ago, is still not decorated. How terrible is that?

Bricks goes in for his second and final round of heartworm treatment/injections this morning. We pick him up on Sunday. Hopefully, things will go as smoothly as last time! Poor boy.

'Tis the season . . .

to curl up for a good nap . . . to dream about going for a run . . .

. . . and to enjoy a fun night with good friends (Doug and Katherine). This was at our Junior League Christmas party; I had good intentions of taking pictures but managed to only take one.

Machen, McChesney & Chastain Baby Shower

Last Thursday, the accounting firm with whom my company works, threw us a baby shower at Lesley and Andy's house. It was wonderful! The food and company were great. There were also a lot of children there which made it even more fun. Again, not to sound like a broken record, but we are so thankful for the love and support of our family and friends.

Nicole, Dana, Gary and Lesley
Most of the MM&C ladies
Gary got his very own diaper bag!

the little things surface again . . . and give us reason to celebrate and be thankful . . .

. . . after wearing a walking cast/boot for the last nine weeks, I got the go ahead to take it off and no longer wear it! Exciting stuff. The orthopedic has now downgraded (for lack of a better term) me to a lace up type of brace. It's much lighter and less cumbersome. I have been given the go ahead to resume swimming and can even try stationary biking . . . this is especially good news for someone who aimed to run/jog/etc. as long as possible throughout her pregnancy. Woo hoo!

Nursery After . . .

View if entering the room - we are waiting on roman shades the lady (who made the crib bedding) is sewing for us.

Antique dresser (using as changing table).

Henry's crib
My sister gave us this super comfy glider and ottoman and we had the cushions recovered and a pillow made.
Everything is ready for him . . . except installation of the car seat!

Nursery before . . . and during . . .

The nursery used to be a second guest bedroom/office.

Before . . .

Then we decided to have stripes painted for the nursery-here is the taping job. Quite a puzzle!

First Financial Group Shower

This past Friday, our Birmingham FFG office threw us a baby shower hosted by Embree, Mimi, Jenny and Crystal. I really miss seeing everyone there every day-they are such a great group of people!

Snuggle time . . . Shelby and Bricks enjoyed it much more than Savannah, who just wanted to get up and play with her frisbee.

Baby Shower for Henry

This past Sunday, family and friends threw a baby shower at Tricia's house for us. It was exciting and great to visit with everyone. Henry sure is one lucky little boy. We are so blessed to have such kind and supportive family and friends.

The hostesses: Stacy (sister), Heather (friend), Shannon (sister), Whitney (cousin), Tricia(friend), Aunt Gail, Randa (cousin), Allison (friend), Deirdre (sister) & Sue (friend). Not pictured: Melinda (friend) and Jana (cousin).
Sue made a carriage out of a watermelon and used it to serve the fruit salad. How creative!
My maternal grandmother (Granny), Molly (holding Madeline), and Madeline.
Heather made and wrapped each of these cookies with really cute green gingham ribbon.
Sue had this onesie made and we just love it! Yes, he will be our third team member on our adventure race team . . . one day.

Got Six?!

Weagle weagle! They got Nick and we got six. I think we'll take six.

Look who flew down for the the weekend . . . SUE!!!
Gary sported the traditional orange robe despite the chilly weather. Leading War Eagle on the top of the RV and announcing Nick Saban is the devil seemed like a good idea. I think I heard my Dad mutter, "And that my friends, is soon to be the father of my grandson."

Allison, Joel, Madeline, Yancy and Joy
It was a long, cold tailgate, but definitely a memorable and enjoyable one.

Update

Good news-Bricks made it through his first treatment splendidly! When I picked him up Friday, he was in pretty good spirits and was not sick. He did well over the weekend also. We are so thankful he didn't have any adverse reactions to the injection.

Word to the wise: DO NOT BUY A VOLKSWAGEN, EVER. If you are considering one, choose another automobile. If you have a VW and love the car, good for you. DON'T USE THE MONTGOMERY OR BIRMINGHAM DEALERSHIPS FOR SERVICE. Gary's Jetta has been at either of the aforementioned dealerships for the last three months. And, they still don't know what is wrong with the car. For only two weeks of those last three months, have they provided a loaner car. We have paid for parts and labor on parts that still have not fixed the car, and paid a pretty penny at that. The consumer is so helpless it seems. We have submitted a claim to the Better Business Bureau. The only thing I know of that we can do personally at this point is to give them bad PR. Maybe Fox 6 On Your Side will consider our situation for broadcast. Anyway, steer clear of VW and/or those dealerships and encourage your friends and family to do the same!

For the unedited version of this post, feel free to stop by our house any night of the week. It has become a spirited topic of conversation at the Vaughan house.

Here's to Bricks, my sweet boy

It has officially been one year since Bricks came to live with us. I remember this time last year people saying "Wow, another dog! Isn't two enough?" Our lives would be so very different without him, he has brought such joy and laughter. And, I think he will keep Savannah and Shelby young for many years to come. He is such the "gentle giant" and big old goofball. His extremely laid back personality, sensitivity, and love for his family is such a great balance in our household. It is hard to remember NOT having him around; he is so wonderful! I could go on (about all of our dogs), but will spare you . . .

As we closed in on the year mark, it became time for his annual shots. Unfortunately, he tested positive for heartworms. Since he's been on heartworm preventative ever since rescue found him and he's been living with us, our vet believes he contracted the worms prior to rescue finding him. Heartworms take 6 months to develop and show as positive on a test. So, he has been on antibiotics for the last 5-6 weeks to lessen the effects of the injections (3 total) he will have to receive.

Yesterday, I took him in for his first immiticyde (sp?) injection. It's pretty powerful and painful stuff; they give the injection in the back between the hips and they keep him overnight for observation to make sure he doesn't have any crazy reactions to the injection. I called to check on him yesterday afternoon and he did great! So far so good. I pick him up this afternoon and can't wait to have him back home. He will have to be kept on very a minimal activity level for the next 30 days, at which point he will have another injection (2 actually, back to back). I've fostered dogs recovering from this treatment, but have never had a dog owned personally that has had heartworms, so it's definitely been a learning experience. Hopefully, he will be back to his normal self very soon and heartworm free!

Miscellaneous

Miscellaneous "stuff" . . .

Congratulations to Brandon and Elizabeth on the birth of their daughter, Emma Kay Rose!

Sterling LOVES the dog bed on our porch and is so cute when he curls up on it. This picture doesn't do the cuteness justice.

A little over 27 weeks . . . things are still going well and I am feeling great! Hopefully, I can get the old cast off my ankle this week. It's been 7 weeks since the fateful day, ha ha.

Congrats

Congratulations to Gooch and Jessica on the birth of their daughter, Ryan Kobe Hart.

Also, congrats to Todd and Mandy . . . they found out they are having a healthy baby boy.

The number of babies born this year and that will be born in 2008 in our circle of friends is truly astounding! As for us, our baby name is confirmed, Henry Davis Vaughan. Let's hold off on calling him Hank . . . which seems to be the trend these days from a few friends. He is one active little man and always seems to be moving more on my right side. I have no idea how he is positioned though to make any sort of educated guess as to what we can feel moving and what we can't.

Happy Halloween from Ocala

Our nieces and nephew in Ocala are ready to go trick or treating . . .

Unfortunately, we can no longer post pictures of our niece and nephew here in Auburn at the request of their parents. They were adorable though in their Super Girl and Darth Vader costumes!

As for Gary and I, we declined to dress up this year. We had lots of good ideas, but alas, thought of them too late. Maybe next year!