Saturday, July 25, 2009

23 Weeks

Words really can't express my gratitude for all the support I have. When I started this blog, I assumed only family and friends would read it. But I was completely surprised to see people I did not know reaching out and supporting me. Thank you so much for your supportive and encouraging words. To Emily, Jen, Adrienne, and Courtney thank you for your comments. I look forward to reading more about your journeys! I must admit I have blog envy. I finally changed my color to pink since I know I'm having a girl, but how do I make it all cute?

Two more days and I will be in Arizona! I can't wait to see my family (my WHOLE family, brothers included!!) and spend time with them. I am so excited because we are taking a road trip to the Grand Canyon and it has been such a long time since we've been able to do that. I look forward to taking pictures - I'll finally have a complete family picture!

Good news for Alyssa. The infection results came in Thursday and she does not have an infection. She has been moving a lot lately and it is always early in the morning and late at night. My next appointment is August 11 and they will measure everything again to check her growth. I can't wait to see my little girl again!

Monday, July 20, 2009

22 Weeks

We got the results of my amnio from July 6. Our baby has Down syndrome. Jamie & I are doing really well. The initial shock was difficult and sometimes it gets to me, but for the most part I am positive. I have such a great group of family and friends to support us.

The great news is that she looks great! The doctor was very happy with the way her heart looks (which is important) and her growth from the last ultrasound (she gained an ounce). I am extremely relieved at this as many babies with Down syndrome are not as fortunate. However, she is still not in the clear. There are so many health concerns that come with it once she is born. I can only ask for prayers that she will remain as healthy as she is now.

It is weird to tell people our news simply because I don't know how they'll react. And it hurts when people assume or act like it means our lives are over because I know this isn't true. The nurse at the hospital assumed that I was a complete mess and offered to let the doctor know if I needed an anti-depressant. Does it bother me? Yes every now and then. But I know that God gave her to us for a reason - Down syndrome and all. And I know that included in my awesome support group mentioned before is God at the center.

Tuesday, July 7, 2009

21 Weeks

It's a girl! I can't believe it. A little girl. We are so excited. I've spent all morning looking at girl stuff and ordered some clothes from Old Navy. I can't help it. I haven't been able to do much and now that I know...I could go overboard. But it is my first baby.

The appointment went well. For those of you who don't know, I had to get an amnio because she is too small for where I am in my pregnancy. So please pray that everything comes out fine. I should have the results within a week. I am not going to stress about it, but prayer doesn't hurt! Seeing her move during the ultrasound was awesome. For most of the time she had her foot in her mouth or by her head. Who knows? Maybe she'll be an awesome gymnast!

We've decided to name her Alyssa Marie. Jamie chose Alyssa and I chose Marie (it's my middle name and my mom's). I'm glad we could both come up with a name we like. I wasn't too crazy about Alyssa at the start, but now I think it fits her.

Thursday, July 2, 2009

20 Weeks It's a...

I woke up this morning energized and ready for the day. I had my appointment (THE BIG appointment) at 8:30 and I was ready! Boy or girl? The question would be (hopefully) answered. I drank my 16 ounces of liquid (pure torture - I had to go to the bathroom 5 minutes later) and we went to the appointment.

I waited patiently as the tech took 20 minutes to move the thing around and take measurements. It seemed like forever but I kept reminding myself to be patient! After what seemed like forever, she let Jamie in (he went to the restroom as soon as we got there - lucky) and it was time to find out! But the baby had other plans. The whole time we only saw the baby's profile. To make matters more difficult the baby decided to sleep with its legs crossed. So no matter what the tech did she could not get a good look at what was there. And my little peanut had both hands on its head so we couldn't get a good head shot. I guess it's to be expected. After all, this is my kid.

I have my other appointment on Monday and I am more hopeful that we will get the answer I have been waiting for. The ultrasound machine they use is more high-tech and it is later in the day so hopefully my kid will have enough beauty sleep to show us all of his/her attributes!