Farren RobertMichael Thurmond

So after trying to induce labor for two and a half days the doctors told me I could keep trying for 24 hours or go for a C-section.  There were various signs that he just wasn't going to come naturally, so we opted for the surgery.  (Turns out that was the only choice:  his head had been trying to drop into my pelvis but his skull was too big [he actually had a little bruise on his temple when he came out], and HAD his head somehow fit his chest circumference was even bigger, so he most definitely would have gotten stuck.)  At any rate, Farren RobertMichael made his entry into this world at 6:45 pm on November 21, 2011.  He weighed in at 9 pounds 5 ounces and 19 inches, and we are so happy to have him!

Having a baby

Well, we've been at the hospital for about 24 hours now and the doctors told the truth:  getting induced takes a LONG time.  I've been having contractions now for about 18 hours but my body is still not exactly ready for active labor (i.e., minimal dilation is going on.)  They're about to try something new, so hopefully it works.  We'd love to see our son sooner rather than later!

Happy Thanksgiving

We just got back from our latest perinatology appointment/ultrasound.  Turns out the baby is big (what a surprise - NOT) and they want to induce me early.  They'll do a test on Tuesday, November 22 to see if his lungs are developed and, if all is well, I'll be induced Tuesday evening or Wednesday.  Robb thinks I'm a little weird for wanting to wait until after school Wednesday, but it's the last day of school that week and it's a minimum day, so I figure - why not?  It's not like I'll be living it up on Thanksgiving either way (at least not in the traditional, eat-till-you-pop way.)  At any rate, thirteen days max and we're parents!!!

Work and Pregnancy

So working while being pregnant hasn't been TOO bad, up until the last few weeks, that is.  As a teacher, we don't get normal maternity leave.  We don't pay into disability, so I only get paid for as many sick days as I have saved up (in this case, six weeks' worth.)  These last two weeks have been very difficult and I imagine the next few will be the same, HOWEVER, there have been some unexpected perks.  I don't know if it's because I taught these same students last year or if I just have truly fabulous parents in my classroom, but they are all over their children about treating me well (which they do) AND several of them have given me gifts for the baby.  These were all totally unexpected, and I'm touched by their generosity and love.  Blessings come in many forms, and these are definitely helping make my last few weeks a bit easier.

Feeling sexy much?

Having a baby brings all sorts of new experiences.  The latest would be the acquisition of my first-ever pair of compression knee-highs.  Oh yeah, baby - I'm feeling sexier all the time.