My dear boy,
I did not write you as many letter during your pregnancy... and, in fact, none of them are online. I may go back at some point and fill in the gaps, but I want to tell you about your labor and delivery first, before the memories become to fuzzy and hazy in this newborn stage.
As my third baby, everyone told me, "Labor will be so much faster this time!" I did everything I could to ensure you were in the best position, that my cervix was soft and ready, etc. I ate dates. I ate pineapple. I drank raspberry leaf tea. I rested on my hands and knees, belly down, so you would turn. I did it all.
And yet, labor still didn't start until I was 6 days past my due date.
At about 4:00pm on Thursday, January 24th, contractions started. They were regular... and they were all in my back. Again. I labored through dinner, through the night. They got stronger but were manageable. Daddy had the stack of index cards I'd written out for such a time as this and he faithfully read them and prayed with me through each contraction. (My favorite card? "It feels good to be a gangster.")
I called my midwife at about 3:00am to tell her what was going on and that, Lord willing, we would head in soon! "Maybe you'd be here before noon!" we thought. And then contractions tapered off.
They picked up steam again mid-morning, though! "This is it, we thought! By early afternoon, surely, you'll be here!" And then they stopped again.
At about 4:00pm, with you still not here, we decided to go to the midwife just to see if we'd made any progress. At my last check, I had been about 2cm dilated... but with all that work, surely I was at least 6cm, right?! I waddled into the midwife, where they hooked me up to some monitors to check your heartrate during contractions. Everything was great, except for the back labor being so painful. And when they checked, I was at 4cm.
4 cm, after 24 hours of labor. Not encouraging.
They sent me and daddy home, where I decided to take a bath. I rested in the tub some, letting the warm water sink into my muscles.
And when I got out, things came on fast and furious! Daddy was making dinner, but I just could. not. leave our room. I put on some clothes, stopping often to work through a contraction. Mimi came into our room while daddy cooked and rubbed my back or squeezed my hips while I swayed on my big exercise ball. The movement felt good, but I knew things were getting more and more intense.
And I knew there was no way I could eat dinner with everyone else.
Daddy and Mimi got Ruth and Clara into bed, then at about 8:00pm, I told daddy to call the midwife. She agreed to meet us at the birth center at 8:30pm, so we got all our things together pretty quickly. We arrived later than anticipated - I kept having to stop what I was doing for contractions! But finally, around 8:50pm, we showed up.
It was a beautiful, cool, January evening, with a fresh layer of snow outside.
I went right up to a birth room - the green one that daddy liked best - and stripped so they could check my dilation. I at 8cm, but you were still not in a great position.
The midwives had me lean over a birth ball on my knees so you would, hopefully turn, and I stayed like that for about an hour while daddy read index cards and prayed for me.
Then I asked if I could get in the shower. I put on my bikini top and got into the warm water where you FINALLY flipped around. After just 20 minutes or so, I told daddy I felt like I'd have to push soon and could he please tell the midwives?
The midwives started filling the birth tub with water while I dried off and climbed into the bed. They wanted to check my progress. I was pleased to hear that I was fully dilated, but still had some thinning to do. And my water still hadn't broken! They asked if I wanted them to break it and I said yes, so they tried... and tried... and tried! They said the membranes were really thick and it took about 10 minutes before they were able to get a hole in it. When my water broke, I was so relieved that there was no meconium!
Finally, I could climb into the tub. The hot water was a welcome relief. I sat on my knees and when a contraction hit, I told daddy, "This is going to be a big one!" I moaned and breathed through each contraction, willing myself to relax, while daddy continued to read the cards and pray.
And then, all of a sudden, I had to push. And after a couple pushes, your head was right there, crowning, but not out yet.
The midwives told me to sit back on my bottom, knees up, so I could push better. On the next push, your head was out, and your whole, perfect body slipped out with the next contraction and pushes.
At 10:55pm on Friday, January 25th, 2019 (your late Grandma Brenda's birthday) after 30 hours of labor and 7 minutes of pushing, you entered life on the outside, in a tub of warm water, in a quiet and calm room, as the moon and stars danced outside.
And then that quiet and calm was shattered.
As I held you in the tub, you would not stop crying. Your head was arched back and you could not calm down. With help, we moved to the bed where I was examined (no tearing!) and tried to encourage you to nurse, but you didn't even want to root around, much less suckle. The midwives examined you - a 9 on your APGAR - and noticed that your spine seemed out of alignment, especially near your sacrum. And still you cried. Nothing would calm you.
Finally, they grabbed some frankincense essential oils and rubbed it down your back. That helped long relax your "little" body (9lbs, 4 oz and 21 inches long!) and finally, you latched on for nursing. We were encouraged to see a chiropractor for your back, so an appointment was made for that day at 6:00pm.
By about 2:00am, I had showered and changed into a robe, daddy was snuggling you next to me in bed, and we were snacking on some foods we'd brought from home. We slept until about 6:00am, when we loaded everything back into the Jeep and drove home, stopping for coffee and McDonald's breakfast on the way.
Hudson James, named for the missionary Hudson Taylor and the Biblical book of James, you came in like a storm. Your birth kicked off an anxious two months as we tried to balance doctors appointments, post-partum infections, breastfeeding struggles, and illness. But your birth brought such joy to our hearts.
Our sweet Hudson - the biggest of all three babies, the longest of all three labors... the Lord has big plans for you, and I'm so thankful to be the mama helping guide you in those plans.
Love love love,
Mama
Saturday, January 26, 2019
Monday, July 17, 2017
Happy Birthday, Clara Mae!
Dear Clara Mae,
Exactly one week after your due date, at 41 weeks, you were born into this world. We are so pleased you are here.
I started feeling contractions with you at about midnight on July 17, 2017. They were not very consistent until about 3:00am, when I could start timing them. Just like with your older sister, your daddy and I prayed and read scripture through each contraction. But this time was different - I was so tired, felt so unprepared, that Satan kept attacking me and making me doubt not just myself, but the Lord. I struggled all day, to be honest.
Throughout the morning, the contractions got stronger and closer together... until I took a nap. Then they tapered off. So daddy and I hopped in the car and went to get him a coffee. Nothing else to do!
On the way, I felt a contraction and, with nothing to do to get my mind off it, I just felt it. I felt what my body was doing to move you down the birth canal, how it was compressing against itself and you to shift you just a fraction more, just a little bit closer to being here. I started to breathe deeply, thinking the whole time, "Just breathe her down..." That mantra became a large part of the rest of my contractions!
After the coffee run, contractions picked back up again and we were getting so hopeful that you'd be here by mid-morning or mid-afternoon... until I took another nap - I'm telling you, Clara, I was so exhausted. Unfortunately, the nap caused the contractions to taper off AGAIN!
After the nap, I was feeling pretty discouraged. We had already endured about 16 hours of mostly back labor, and still, no baby. I decided to set my mind on the fact that you just weren't going to come today, that the contractions would end altogether.
We finally decided that at 6:00pm, we would just go to the hospital to see if I had made ANY progress at all... but between 5:00pm and 5:30pm, the contractions got so strong and were about 3-5 minutes apart. So we gathered our stuff, kissed Ruthie and Mimi goodbye, and headed out shortly after 5:30pm
Contractions slowed some on the way to the hospital, but we were ushered into triage where they determined me to be about 4.5 cm dilated and 70% effaced. They called Dr. Moss who said to admit me, and we made our way to room 105.
We had two nurses that night: Jan and Charly. And guess what - they were both believers! We got there right at shift change, so Jan took got us settled while we waited for Charly to get there. When Jan walked in the room, I had some Bible verses written on index cards laid out on the bed in front of me. Jan asked, "Are you studying?!" I said, "No... well, sort of!" She saw what I was reading and got so excited. She told us, "That's my world, too!" and went on to explain that her husband is a pastor and Charly's husband is on the worship team at the same church. Then Jan prayed with us - it was so special to know that she (and Charly!) were both believers and would be partnering with us in prayer throughout the labor and delivery.
Within the next couple hours, I progressed to 6 cm and 100% effaced... and was still exhausted, in a lot of pain, and doubting my body's ability to deliver you. Charlie suggested I get in the tub, so they started filling it up. Before I could hop in, Dr. Moss requested that I be hooked up to the monitors for a few minutes. Everything seemed just fine - you were so snug in there! - so after about 30 minutes, I was unhooked and settled in the tub.
The warm water felt so nice, Clara. It helped me relax and gave me and daddy some time to chat and pray through the contractions. Still, through each contraction, we were reading scripture, praying, and I was thinking, "Just breathe her down."
While in the tub, I could feel my body progressing quickly. I had one particularly strong contraction and didn't tell Daddy. Instead, I closed my eyes and repeated over and over in my mind, "You will keep in perfect peace him whose mind is steadfast for he trusts in You" (Isaiah 26:3) while breathing deeply. The contraction lasted a couple minutes and, during that time, Charly walked in. When I opened my eyes again, she asked me, "Are you sleeping between contractions?" I told her, "That WAS a contraction." And Clara-bou, you should have seen her face. She was SHOCKED that I was that quiet and still during a contraction, with no pain medicine. She said, "I want to be like you when I grow up!"
Within about 20 minutes if being in the tub, I started feeling the urge to push. I told Charly and she said I'd probably have to get out in about 5 minutes, so that I don't deliver to baby in the water! So shortly after that, I crawled out of the tub and made my way back to the hospital bed.
I climbed in the bed and Dr. Moss came in. Charlie got everything set up for your delivery and Jan was there getting things ready for you. A contraction came and we had the following conversation:
Dr. Moss: "Do you want to push?"
Me: "YES!"
Dr. Moss: "So push!"
Me: "I can't!!"
Charly: "Yes, you can. We'll hold your legs if you'd like and I can count to ten."
Me: "Yes please!!"
So that's what they did. Charly and daddy each held a leg, Charly counted to ten, and I started pushing. I pushed three times and could feel your head crowning!! They commented on all your dark hair and Dr. Moss said, "Wow, she's right there. If you push one more time, she'll be here!" Charly asked if I wanted to feel your head and I said no - I was in the zone and didn't want to lose focus! The next contraction came, and you better believe I pushed with all my might!
Five pushes during that contraction and I felt your body slide from mine as you came into this world on July 17, 2017 at 10:49pm.
Immediately I started saying, "Oh, my baby! She's here!" Jan wiped you off real quick and they handed you right up to me. As soon as your umbilical cord stopped pulsing, daddy cut it. And I just kept exclaiming over how you were here and beautiful and your skin was perfectly colored and your hair was so dark and long and you were here!!
23 hours of labor, five minutes of pushing, countless Bible verses and prayer moments... and you were here. Finally on the outside. Safe and secure in my arms and, within minutes, nursing like a champion.
They finally got my placenta out and saw that your umbilical cord was attached to the side of it, rather than in the middle like is normal. No big deal, just made it more difficult for my body to expel. I didn't care. You were here!
After about an hour, they came back to weigh and measure you. At 20.5 inches long and 8 lbs even, you were the perfect size for a week-late baby. They cuddled you up in your blanket and daddy held you while I hopped in the shower.
It felt so nice to clean myself up and that long labor and short delivery! I put on those great granny-panties the hospital provides, along with all the accouterments that go along with post-delivery recovery. I tied on a fresh hospital gown and crawled into bed. Daddy and I spent the next couple hours staring at your perfect face, texting family members, and savoring our first moments with you.
Oh Clara Mae, we love you a million times over already. You are a light - I know the hospital staff saw the difference in our lives as we brought you into the world. And we pray, girly, that you will continue to be a light.
Love love love,
Mama
Exactly one week after your due date, at 41 weeks, you were born into this world. We are so pleased you are here.
I started feeling contractions with you at about midnight on July 17, 2017. They were not very consistent until about 3:00am, when I could start timing them. Just like with your older sister, your daddy and I prayed and read scripture through each contraction. But this time was different - I was so tired, felt so unprepared, that Satan kept attacking me and making me doubt not just myself, but the Lord. I struggled all day, to be honest.
Throughout the morning, the contractions got stronger and closer together... until I took a nap. Then they tapered off. So daddy and I hopped in the car and went to get him a coffee. Nothing else to do!
On the way, I felt a contraction and, with nothing to do to get my mind off it, I just felt it. I felt what my body was doing to move you down the birth canal, how it was compressing against itself and you to shift you just a fraction more, just a little bit closer to being here. I started to breathe deeply, thinking the whole time, "Just breathe her down..." That mantra became a large part of the rest of my contractions!
After the coffee run, contractions picked back up again and we were getting so hopeful that you'd be here by mid-morning or mid-afternoon... until I took another nap - I'm telling you, Clara, I was so exhausted. Unfortunately, the nap caused the contractions to taper off AGAIN!
After the nap, I was feeling pretty discouraged. We had already endured about 16 hours of mostly back labor, and still, no baby. I decided to set my mind on the fact that you just weren't going to come today, that the contractions would end altogether.
We finally decided that at 6:00pm, we would just go to the hospital to see if I had made ANY progress at all... but between 5:00pm and 5:30pm, the contractions got so strong and were about 3-5 minutes apart. So we gathered our stuff, kissed Ruthie and Mimi goodbye, and headed out shortly after 5:30pm
Contractions slowed some on the way to the hospital, but we were ushered into triage where they determined me to be about 4.5 cm dilated and 70% effaced. They called Dr. Moss who said to admit me, and we made our way to room 105.
We had two nurses that night: Jan and Charly. And guess what - they were both believers! We got there right at shift change, so Jan took got us settled while we waited for Charly to get there. When Jan walked in the room, I had some Bible verses written on index cards laid out on the bed in front of me. Jan asked, "Are you studying?!" I said, "No... well, sort of!" She saw what I was reading and got so excited. She told us, "That's my world, too!" and went on to explain that her husband is a pastor and Charly's husband is on the worship team at the same church. Then Jan prayed with us - it was so special to know that she (and Charly!) were both believers and would be partnering with us in prayer throughout the labor and delivery.
Within the next couple hours, I progressed to 6 cm and 100% effaced... and was still exhausted, in a lot of pain, and doubting my body's ability to deliver you. Charlie suggested I get in the tub, so they started filling it up. Before I could hop in, Dr. Moss requested that I be hooked up to the monitors for a few minutes. Everything seemed just fine - you were so snug in there! - so after about 30 minutes, I was unhooked and settled in the tub.
The warm water felt so nice, Clara. It helped me relax and gave me and daddy some time to chat and pray through the contractions. Still, through each contraction, we were reading scripture, praying, and I was thinking, "Just breathe her down."
While in the tub, I could feel my body progressing quickly. I had one particularly strong contraction and didn't tell Daddy. Instead, I closed my eyes and repeated over and over in my mind, "You will keep in perfect peace him whose mind is steadfast for he trusts in You" (Isaiah 26:3) while breathing deeply. The contraction lasted a couple minutes and, during that time, Charly walked in. When I opened my eyes again, she asked me, "Are you sleeping between contractions?" I told her, "That WAS a contraction." And Clara-bou, you should have seen her face. She was SHOCKED that I was that quiet and still during a contraction, with no pain medicine. She said, "I want to be like you when I grow up!"
Within about 20 minutes if being in the tub, I started feeling the urge to push. I told Charly and she said I'd probably have to get out in about 5 minutes, so that I don't deliver to baby in the water! So shortly after that, I crawled out of the tub and made my way back to the hospital bed.
I climbed in the bed and Dr. Moss came in. Charlie got everything set up for your delivery and Jan was there getting things ready for you. A contraction came and we had the following conversation:
Dr. Moss: "Do you want to push?"
Me: "YES!"
Dr. Moss: "So push!"
Me: "I can't!!"
Charly: "Yes, you can. We'll hold your legs if you'd like and I can count to ten."
Me: "Yes please!!"
So that's what they did. Charly and daddy each held a leg, Charly counted to ten, and I started pushing. I pushed three times and could feel your head crowning!! They commented on all your dark hair and Dr. Moss said, "Wow, she's right there. If you push one more time, she'll be here!" Charly asked if I wanted to feel your head and I said no - I was in the zone and didn't want to lose focus! The next contraction came, and you better believe I pushed with all my might!
Five pushes during that contraction and I felt your body slide from mine as you came into this world on July 17, 2017 at 10:49pm.
Immediately I started saying, "Oh, my baby! She's here!" Jan wiped you off real quick and they handed you right up to me. As soon as your umbilical cord stopped pulsing, daddy cut it. And I just kept exclaiming over how you were here and beautiful and your skin was perfectly colored and your hair was so dark and long and you were here!!
23 hours of labor, five minutes of pushing, countless Bible verses and prayer moments... and you were here. Finally on the outside. Safe and secure in my arms and, within minutes, nursing like a champion.
They finally got my placenta out and saw that your umbilical cord was attached to the side of it, rather than in the middle like is normal. No big deal, just made it more difficult for my body to expel. I didn't care. You were here!
After about an hour, they came back to weigh and measure you. At 20.5 inches long and 8 lbs even, you were the perfect size for a week-late baby. They cuddled you up in your blanket and daddy held you while I hopped in the shower.
It felt so nice to clean myself up and that long labor and short delivery! I put on those great granny-panties the hospital provides, along with all the accouterments that go along with post-delivery recovery. I tied on a fresh hospital gown and crawled into bed. Daddy and I spent the next couple hours staring at your perfect face, texting family members, and savoring our first moments with you.
Oh Clara Mae, we love you a million times over already. You are a light - I know the hospital staff saw the difference in our lives as we brought you into the world. And we pray, girly, that you will continue to be a light.
Love love love,
Mama
41 Weeks
Dear Baby Batts #2,
41 weeks today and you are cozy as can be. You're moving a little bit less during the day (less room, I suppose!) but still get really wiggly in the evenings. I've had a cold, and didn't want to field everyone's questions, so we stayed home from church yesterday.
I had some small contractions throughout the day, but nothing big... but maybe today will be the day!
Come on, little girl! We are ready!
Love,
Mama
41 weeks today and you are cozy as can be. You're moving a little bit less during the day (less room, I suppose!) but still get really wiggly in the evenings. I've had a cold, and didn't want to field everyone's questions, so we stayed home from church yesterday.
I had some small contractions throughout the day, but nothing big... but maybe today will be the day!
Come on, little girl! We are ready!
Love,
Mama
Friday, July 14, 2017
40 Weeks, 4 Days
Dear Baby Batts #2,
Overwhelmed. Exhausted. Weak. That's how I feel right now.
I've been cramping for over two weeks and finally felt a few contractions last night, but nothing big or consistent. They've now tapered off completely and we're back to square one.
I trust that the Lord has a plan, but Clara, I can't see it and that's so frustrating.
I was reading in 2 Samuel this morning and got to 7:28-29. It says, "O Sovereign Lord, You are God! Your words are trustworthy, and You have promised these good things to Your servant. Now be pleased to bless the house of Your servant, that it may continue forever in Your sight; for You, O Sovereign Lord, have spoken, and with Your blessing the house of Your servant will be blessed forever."
So what words of God's are trustworthy?
Overwhelmed. Exhausted. Weak. That's how I feel right now.
I've been cramping for over two weeks and finally felt a few contractions last night, but nothing big or consistent. They've now tapered off completely and we're back to square one.
I trust that the Lord has a plan, but Clara, I can't see it and that's so frustrating.
I was reading in 2 Samuel this morning and got to 7:28-29. It says, "O Sovereign Lord, You are God! Your words are trustworthy, and You have promised these good things to Your servant. Now be pleased to bless the house of Your servant, that it may continue forever in Your sight; for You, O Sovereign Lord, have spoken, and with Your blessing the house of Your servant will be blessed forever."
So what words of God's are trustworthy?
- Psalm 139:16 "Your eyes saw my unformed body. All the days ordained for me were written in Your book before one of them came to be."
- Isaiah 43:1 "But now, this is what the Lord says - He who created you, O Jacob, He who formed you, O Israel: 'Fear not, for I have redeemed you; I have summoned you by name; you are Mine."
- Jeremiah 9:23-24 "This is what the Lord says, 'Let not the wise man boast of his wisdom or the strong man boast of his strength or the rich man boast of his riches, but let him who boasts boast about this: that he undertones and knows Me, that I am the Lord who exercises kindness, justice, and righteousness on earth, for in these I delight.'"
- Jeremiah 29:11 "'For I know the plans I have for you,' declares the Lord, 'plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you a hope and a future.'"
- Isaiah 55:8- "For My thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways My ways. As the heavens are higher than the earth, so are My ways higher than your ways and My thoughts than your thoughts."
- Mark 5:36 "Ignoring what they said, Jesus told the synagogue ruler, "Don't be afraid; just believe.'"
- Deuteronomy 31:6 "Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid or terrified because of them, for the Lord your God goes with you; He will never leave you nor forsake you."
Lord, I choose to trust You. In these last days of Clara's pregnancy, I choose to trust in Your words.
Love,
Mama
Thursday, July 13, 2017
40 Weeks, 3 Days
Dear Baby Batts #2,
More cramping, plus I lost my mucous plug this morning (TMI?).
Mimi, Ruth, and I went shopping in Anchorage. Mimi bought you lots of cute things for your baby shower (on July 23rd - you better be here before then!!). We ate lunch at Olive Garden, drove home, and relaxed some.
I took a bath this evening and loved feeling you wiggling around in my tummy in the warm water.
But really, little miss, I'd love to feel you wiggling around on the outside even more!
Love,
Mama
More cramping, plus I lost my mucous plug this morning (TMI?).
Mimi, Ruth, and I went shopping in Anchorage. Mimi bought you lots of cute things for your baby shower (on July 23rd - you better be here before then!!). We ate lunch at Olive Garden, drove home, and relaxed some.
I took a bath this evening and loved feeling you wiggling around in my tummy in the warm water.
But really, little miss, I'd love to feel you wiggling around on the outside even more!
Love,
Mama
Wednesday, July 12, 2017
40 Weeks, 2 Days
Dear Baby Batts #2,
Doctor's appointment today. We had an ultrasound to check fluid levels (and got to see your leg bone! ha) which were fine, listened to your heartbeat (a steady 145-150ish), measured you (smaller than usual - are you scrunched down in mommy's tummy?), and discussed ways to get you to come. Dr. Moss stripped half my membranes, so we'll see if that works.
I'm about 50% effaced and 1.5 cm dilated. I guess all that cramping has been doing SOMETHING down there, preparing for you to come.
Sweet girl, we are all so excited to see you...
Dr. Moss is on call on Friday (the 14th) and Saturday (the 15th) so we are hoping you come one of those days so she can deliver you! How does that sound? Good plan? Yeah!
Love,
Mama
Doctor's appointment today. We had an ultrasound to check fluid levels (and got to see your leg bone! ha) which were fine, listened to your heartbeat (a steady 145-150ish), measured you (smaller than usual - are you scrunched down in mommy's tummy?), and discussed ways to get you to come. Dr. Moss stripped half my membranes, so we'll see if that works.
I'm about 50% effaced and 1.5 cm dilated. I guess all that cramping has been doing SOMETHING down there, preparing for you to come.
Sweet girl, we are all so excited to see you...
Dr. Moss is on call on Friday (the 14th) and Saturday (the 15th) so we are hoping you come one of those days so she can deliver you! How does that sound? Good plan? Yeah!
Love,
Mama
Tuesday, July 11, 2017
40 Weeks, 1 Day
Dear Baby Batts #2,
In hopes of getting things moving, we went up to Hatchers Pass today and hiked to Independence Mine. We walked a couple miles, I felt some cramping and backache, but no contractions.
It was foggy up there, and so beautiful. Daddy and I had our first date snowshoeing up there in 2012, then we got engaged there in 2013! We even took wedding photos there in 2014 (not at the mine, but up in the mountains). Hatcher's Pass is a special place to us.
It was fun having Ruth there, running around in her "duckas" (her duck rain boots), Mimi in her hiking boots, and you in my tummy! We saw other families with kids (and babies in carriers) and it made me excited for when you can adventure on the outside with us.
Hopefully we'll see you soon, little girl... until then, stay cozy, I guess!
Love you lots,
Mama
In hopes of getting things moving, we went up to Hatchers Pass today and hiked to Independence Mine. We walked a couple miles, I felt some cramping and backache, but no contractions.
It was foggy up there, and so beautiful. Daddy and I had our first date snowshoeing up there in 2012, then we got engaged there in 2013! We even took wedding photos there in 2014 (not at the mine, but up in the mountains). Hatcher's Pass is a special place to us.
It was fun having Ruth there, running around in her "duckas" (her duck rain boots), Mimi in her hiking boots, and you in my tummy! We saw other families with kids (and babies in carriers) and it made me excited for when you can adventure on the outside with us.
Hopefully we'll see you soon, little girl... until then, stay cozy, I guess!
Love you lots,
Mama
Monday, July 10, 2017
40 Weeks
Dear Baby Batts #2,
You are full term! You can (and should) come any time, sweet girl! You're probably about 7 and a half pounds and 20 inches long. I bet you'll be bigger than Ruthie. All systems are "go" for you to make your appearance.
I was thinking the other day about how doctor's don't even know what really causes labor to start. They think there are some molecules you release from your lungs that start it, but I don't think they know all the steps that occur in initiating labor. Why do some women start labor early and some later?
The Lord knows.
I'm trying to trust Him, but I really thought you'd be here earlier than this. I started maternity leave (officially) today, and you aren't here... having a couple days to relax before your big arrival will be nice, but I hope you don't wait inside for too long, Clara. I want to enjoy my days WITH YOU!
Love,
Mama
You are full term! You can (and should) come any time, sweet girl! You're probably about 7 and a half pounds and 20 inches long. I bet you'll be bigger than Ruthie. All systems are "go" for you to make your appearance.
I was thinking the other day about how doctor's don't even know what really causes labor to start. They think there are some molecules you release from your lungs that start it, but I don't think they know all the steps that occur in initiating labor. Why do some women start labor early and some later?
The Lord knows.
I'm trying to trust Him, but I really thought you'd be here earlier than this. I started maternity leave (officially) today, and you aren't here... having a couple days to relax before your big arrival will be nice, but I hope you don't wait inside for too long, Clara. I want to enjoy my days WITH YOU!
Love,
Mama
Saturday, July 8, 2017
39 Weeks, 5 Days
Dear Baby Batts #2,
We went to the Saturday Market in Anchorage today! It was cloudy and chilly, but we had a lot of fun walking around, seeing fun things for sale, and popping into some local crafty stores.
In fact, I bought the yarn to make your Christmas stocking today! I'm hoping to get it done this week, before you come. It's a beautiful deep red and a variegated green that I absolutely LOVE. I can't wait to see how it turns out!
Hopefully tomorrow is our last Sunday with you in my tummy rather than my arms... but we'll see!
Love you to the moon and back,
Mama
We went to the Saturday Market in Anchorage today! It was cloudy and chilly, but we had a lot of fun walking around, seeing fun things for sale, and popping into some local crafty stores.
In fact, I bought the yarn to make your Christmas stocking today! I'm hoping to get it done this week, before you come. It's a beautiful deep red and a variegated green that I absolutely LOVE. I can't wait to see how it turns out!
Hopefully tomorrow is our last Sunday with you in my tummy rather than my arms... but we'll see!
Love you to the moon and back,
Mama
Thursday, July 6, 2017
39 Weeks, 3 Days
Dear Baby Batts #2,
I've had cramping ever since last night... especially when I walk or stand up or roll over in bed. My back is hurting some too, mostly on my right side. Hopefully it's a sign things are moving!
Love,
Mama
I've had cramping ever since last night... especially when I walk or stand up or roll over in bed. My back is hurting some too, mostly on my right side. Hopefully it's a sign things are moving!
Love,
Mama
Wednesday, July 5, 2017
39 Weeks, 2 Days
Dear Baby Batts #2,
Well... I guess we made a little progress. I'm still not dilated at all, but my cerivix has thinned a lot and is soft. So that's a step in the right direction, at least. Dr. Moss said she can feel your head, through my cervix, which means you are in position and ready to go... when the time comes. At my appointment next week, we'll make sure there's enough fluid around you still. And then at my 31-week appointment, we'll discuss inducing, if necessary.
However, I've had lots of cramping the last few hours, which is normal after a cervical check. But hopefully it also means I'm dilating.
Daddy and I decided to go on a date tomorrow night, since Mimi is here to watch Ruth. We are so excited! I'm not sure what we'll do, but I'm just glad we get to do it together.
We praise the Lord that He has great plans for your life, Clara. And we can't wait to see how He uses you.
Love,
Mama
Well... I guess we made a little progress. I'm still not dilated at all, but my cerivix has thinned a lot and is soft. So that's a step in the right direction, at least. Dr. Moss said she can feel your head, through my cervix, which means you are in position and ready to go... when the time comes. At my appointment next week, we'll make sure there's enough fluid around you still. And then at my 31-week appointment, we'll discuss inducing, if necessary.
However, I've had lots of cramping the last few hours, which is normal after a cervical check. But hopefully it also means I'm dilating.
Daddy and I decided to go on a date tomorrow night, since Mimi is here to watch Ruth. We are so excited! I'm not sure what we'll do, but I'm just glad we get to do it together.
We praise the Lord that He has great plans for your life, Clara. And we can't wait to see how He uses you.
Love,
Mama
Tuesday, July 4, 2017
39 Weeks, 1 Day
Dear Baby Batts #2,
Happy Independence Day, Clara-bou! We are so thankful to live in the United States of America, where we experience freedom that others do not... but we are even more thankful for the freedom we have in Christ.
We had planned on going to the Wasilla parade today, but Ruth fell asleep in the car on the way there! So we kept driving north, all the way up to Talkeetna. You liked to jump up and down in my tummy on the way, making me feel like I had to go to the bathroom constantly! We made it without incident, ate lunch, then drove downtown to walk around some.
It was a BEAUTIFUL day! We looked in stores, meandered through town, and just enjoyed all the festivities. We were only there for a couple hours before heading back home, but they were so relaxing.
We made some brats, salad, and baked beans for dinner. And after eating, it was time to put Ruth to bed and just relax...so I took a bath! You and I just relaxed in the warm water and read a book. We soaked for almost two hours! It was so nice.
Tomorrow is your 39 week checkup. I'm hoping we've made some progress since last week, but I guess we'll see.
I love you... see you soon!
Love,
Mama
Happy Independence Day, Clara-bou! We are so thankful to live in the United States of America, where we experience freedom that others do not... but we are even more thankful for the freedom we have in Christ.
We had planned on going to the Wasilla parade today, but Ruth fell asleep in the car on the way there! So we kept driving north, all the way up to Talkeetna. You liked to jump up and down in my tummy on the way, making me feel like I had to go to the bathroom constantly! We made it without incident, ate lunch, then drove downtown to walk around some.
It was a BEAUTIFUL day! We looked in stores, meandered through town, and just enjoyed all the festivities. We were only there for a couple hours before heading back home, but they were so relaxing.
We made some brats, salad, and baked beans for dinner. And after eating, it was time to put Ruth to bed and just relax...so I took a bath! You and I just relaxed in the warm water and read a book. We soaked for almost two hours! It was so nice.
Tomorrow is your 39 week checkup. I'm hoping we've made some progress since last week, but I guess we'll see.
I love you... see you soon!
Love,
Mama
Monday, July 3, 2017
39 Weeks
Dear Baby Batts #2,
39 weeks! You are technically due in one week, but could make your appearance at any time. And we. can't. wait.
This week, your outer layer of skin is shedding and new skin is emerging. This may make it look like you have some dry skin, but it's really just the newness of life showing! Your little lungs are fully mature and ready for some loud screaming after you're born and thrust into our bright, cold world. Oh, I can't wait to hear those cries! You are about the size of a watermelon at 20 inches long and likely 7 or 8 pounds.
I'm trying to get rest (not as much as daddy thinks I should be!) but I could NOT sleep last night. If it happens again tonight, I'm just going to get up and read or sew or crochet. Laying in bed wide awake was no fun!
I have another doctor's appointment on July 5th (if you don't come before then). I ate that whole pineapple this weekend and am now praying that labor starts today so that I can deliver you tomorrow (the 4th). Mimi flies in tonight and daddy and I were talking about how cool it would be if all our kids are born on the fourth day of the month.
But still, not much progress, it seems. So we will keep waiting and praying and anticipating your arrival.
We love you, Clara-bou. See you soon!
Love,
Mama
39 weeks! You are technically due in one week, but could make your appearance at any time. And we. can't. wait.
This week, your outer layer of skin is shedding and new skin is emerging. This may make it look like you have some dry skin, but it's really just the newness of life showing! Your little lungs are fully mature and ready for some loud screaming after you're born and thrust into our bright, cold world. Oh, I can't wait to hear those cries! You are about the size of a watermelon at 20 inches long and likely 7 or 8 pounds.
I'm trying to get rest (not as much as daddy thinks I should be!) but I could NOT sleep last night. If it happens again tonight, I'm just going to get up and read or sew or crochet. Laying in bed wide awake was no fun!
I have another doctor's appointment on July 5th (if you don't come before then). I ate that whole pineapple this weekend and am now praying that labor starts today so that I can deliver you tomorrow (the 4th). Mimi flies in tonight and daddy and I were talking about how cool it would be if all our kids are born on the fourth day of the month.
But still, not much progress, it seems. So we will keep waiting and praying and anticipating your arrival.
We love you, Clara-bou. See you soon!
Love,
Mama
Sunday, July 2, 2017
38 Weeks, 6 Days
Dear Baby Batts #2,
We officially have a date for your baby shower! Gma Linda wants to throw you one after you are born, while Mimi is still here. So we are planning one for Sunday, July 23rd. Hip Hip Hooray!
Yesterday, we were at Target buying some things and I told daddy, "We haven't gotten Clara hardly anything NEW!" I mean, we have - you have some new clothes to wear - but most of your things will be hand-me-downs from Ruth. I feel bad about that, but I know that as you grow and develop into your own personality, you'll have LOTS of your own things, too.
A nice coworker gave you a sweet linen blanket that says, "I am the Light of the World" from John 8:12. It's sitting in your cradle right now (along with our hospital bag!) so that we can snuggle you up in it when the time comes.
And I made you a ring sling - I'm excited to try it with you! And I did make you a blanket. This week, I also painted your letters purple for your room. I hung them on your wall today, and daddy hung the mirror, so your room is officially as ready as it can be! Mimi and Papa will sleep in there while they are up visiting, but eventually it will be yours. And then it will probably be a playroom for you and Ruth.
Sweet girl, tomorrow you are 39 weeks. Where has the time gone?!
Love,
Mama
We officially have a date for your baby shower! Gma Linda wants to throw you one after you are born, while Mimi is still here. So we are planning one for Sunday, July 23rd. Hip Hip Hooray!
Yesterday, we were at Target buying some things and I told daddy, "We haven't gotten Clara hardly anything NEW!" I mean, we have - you have some new clothes to wear - but most of your things will be hand-me-downs from Ruth. I feel bad about that, but I know that as you grow and develop into your own personality, you'll have LOTS of your own things, too.
A nice coworker gave you a sweet linen blanket that says, "I am the Light of the World" from John 8:12. It's sitting in your cradle right now (along with our hospital bag!) so that we can snuggle you up in it when the time comes.
And I made you a ring sling - I'm excited to try it with you! And I did make you a blanket. This week, I also painted your letters purple for your room. I hung them on your wall today, and daddy hung the mirror, so your room is officially as ready as it can be! Mimi and Papa will sleep in there while they are up visiting, but eventually it will be yours. And then it will probably be a playroom for you and Ruth.
Sweet girl, tomorrow you are 39 weeks. Where has the time gone?!
Love,
Mama
Saturday, July 1, 2017
38 Weeks, 5 Days
Dear Baby Batts #2,
This could be our last weekend with you on the inside! I'm trying to be in the mindset for you to be late, like Ruth was, so that I don't get antsy and frustrated... but we are ready for you to come!
We went grocery shopping this morning and bought a pineapple. My plan is to eat it this weekend and see if it starts to kick off labor! It worked with Ruth... but she was also 9 days late when we tried it! You are technically not late yet.
We spent some time playing outside today and I got to read in the hammock. It was nice... except for when I tried to get up and almost couldn't! I was stuck, like a turtle on its back, unable to get the momentum for my upward swing. I'm glad no one was outside to witness it!
Pastor Tom is coming over tonight to talk about some things with daddy and me. I'm so thankful for godly counsel.
And we are so thankful for YOU! Come soon, little one.
Love,
Mama
This could be our last weekend with you on the inside! I'm trying to be in the mindset for you to be late, like Ruth was, so that I don't get antsy and frustrated... but we are ready for you to come!
We went grocery shopping this morning and bought a pineapple. My plan is to eat it this weekend and see if it starts to kick off labor! It worked with Ruth... but she was also 9 days late when we tried it! You are technically not late yet.
We spent some time playing outside today and I got to read in the hammock. It was nice... except for when I tried to get up and almost couldn't! I was stuck, like a turtle on its back, unable to get the momentum for my upward swing. I'm glad no one was outside to witness it!
Pastor Tom is coming over tonight to talk about some things with daddy and me. I'm so thankful for godly counsel.
And we are so thankful for YOU! Come soon, little one.
Love,
Mama
Tuesday, June 27, 2017
38 Weeks, 1 Day
Dear Baby Batts #2,
Short and sweet appointment today - I'm measuring a little smaller, meaning that you are likely further down in the birth canal. Heartbeat was good. My blood pressure was good. We are just waiting now.
Tonight we went to Thomas and Lesley's house - they are moving into the new house they bought this week! We took them some dinner and just hung out. It was fun.
I'm trying not to commit to many things, because we don't know when you'll be here, but I also don't want to just sit around the house waiting for you. We have lots to do before you come though:
Short and sweet appointment today - I'm measuring a little smaller, meaning that you are likely further down in the birth canal. Heartbeat was good. My blood pressure was good. We are just waiting now.
Tonight we went to Thomas and Lesley's house - they are moving into the new house they bought this week! We took them some dinner and just hung out. It was fun.
I'm trying not to commit to many things, because we don't know when you'll be here, but I also don't want to just sit around the house waiting for you. We have lots to do before you come though:
- Paint letters for your room
- Finish cleaning your closet
- Write out new verse cards for labor
- Finish your rug (I hope!!)
We don't know how much time we have until your first day, Clara, so we're just playin the waiting game until then. But as we wait, our love and excitement for you grows and grows!
Love,
Mama
Monday, June 26, 2017
38 Weeks
Dear Baby Batts #2,
38 Weeks! Anytime within the next 4 weeks, you will make your appearance. I told daddy today, "This time next month, Clara will be here!" Not only will you be here, you'll be at least one week old! Hooray!
You probably weigh close to seven pounds (or more!) and are likely nearly 20 inches long. At all of my appointments recently you've been measuring right on target (yay!). You have a firm grasp now and will be able to hold onto our fingers when you are born.
I am sleeping better now (mostly because daddy took our box spring off and rebuilt the platform under our bed), but I wake up once or twice each night to go to the bathroom. Sometimes I get leg cramps, which hurt a lot. And heartburn is a constant nightly occurrence, no matter what I do or don't eat. So I'm really just eating what I want, knowing it will come anyway! I'm still walking at work, though my times vary greatly. Today I walked outside (instead of my customary 15 laps inside) and it was a nice change. Last week, my fastest time inside was 17:11 and my slowest was 21:44 - it all depends on how you are nestled inside.
We have a doctor's appointment tomorrow again.
This weekend, we got your room ready! We organized your pictures, moved in the tall shelf / dresser, and stashed your clothes in the closet and drawers. I still want to clean off the top shelf in your closet (and move the diapers up there) and get the floor of your closet organized. But we're so much closer to you being here now! Your bed is already set up in our room, and I may go ahead and put a sleeper and swaddler in it so it's prepped for you.
We can't wait to meet you, Clara. You are our biggest next adventure.
Hugs, kisses, and cuddles,
Mama
38 Weeks! Anytime within the next 4 weeks, you will make your appearance. I told daddy today, "This time next month, Clara will be here!" Not only will you be here, you'll be at least one week old! Hooray!
You probably weigh close to seven pounds (or more!) and are likely nearly 20 inches long. At all of my appointments recently you've been measuring right on target (yay!). You have a firm grasp now and will be able to hold onto our fingers when you are born.
I am sleeping better now (mostly because daddy took our box spring off and rebuilt the platform under our bed), but I wake up once or twice each night to go to the bathroom. Sometimes I get leg cramps, which hurt a lot. And heartburn is a constant nightly occurrence, no matter what I do or don't eat. So I'm really just eating what I want, knowing it will come anyway! I'm still walking at work, though my times vary greatly. Today I walked outside (instead of my customary 15 laps inside) and it was a nice change. Last week, my fastest time inside was 17:11 and my slowest was 21:44 - it all depends on how you are nestled inside.
We have a doctor's appointment tomorrow again.
This weekend, we got your room ready! We organized your pictures, moved in the tall shelf / dresser, and stashed your clothes in the closet and drawers. I still want to clean off the top shelf in your closet (and move the diapers up there) and get the floor of your closet organized. But we're so much closer to you being here now! Your bed is already set up in our room, and I may go ahead and put a sleeper and swaddler in it so it's prepped for you.
We can't wait to meet you, Clara. You are our biggest next adventure.
Hugs, kisses, and cuddles,
Mama
Saturday, June 24, 2017
37 Weeks, 5 Days
Dear Baby Batts #2,
Tonight, we went to Gma Linda and Pastor Tom's house for a campfire dinner and croquet! It turned into a beautiful evening (yay!!) so we loved just hanging out in the sunshine. You, little miss, made quite the appearance in the form of my large and in-charge baby bump!
I showed Pastor Tom, Thomas, and Lesley the video of you dancing in my tummy from earlier this week (Gma Linda saw it on Thursday). They were amazed. You are quite our little gymnast sometimes - I can't wait to see how that manifests itself on the outside, too.
We are thankful for a relaxing weekend as we prepare for your arrival. Tomorrow, I think we're going to work on getting your room organized. Yay!
Love,
Mama
Tonight, we went to Gma Linda and Pastor Tom's house for a campfire dinner and croquet! It turned into a beautiful evening (yay!!) so we loved just hanging out in the sunshine. You, little miss, made quite the appearance in the form of my large and in-charge baby bump!
I showed Pastor Tom, Thomas, and Lesley the video of you dancing in my tummy from earlier this week (Gma Linda saw it on Thursday). They were amazed. You are quite our little gymnast sometimes - I can't wait to see how that manifests itself on the outside, too.
We are thankful for a relaxing weekend as we prepare for your arrival. Tomorrow, I think we're going to work on getting your room organized. Yay!
Love,
Mama
Thursday, June 22, 2017
37 Weeks, 3 Days
Dear Baby Batts #2,
At my 37 week appointment today, we found out that my body has made no progress toward delivering you. I'm still closed up. But that's okay (I guess) - you can stay cozy as long as you want (well, within reason).
Your heartbeat sounded good, my GBS test came back negative, and all seems well in our little pregnant world.
Since Papa is in town, we left Ruth with him while Daddy and I went to our appointment. Afterward, we stopped and got some ice cream (shh, don't tell!) and said hi to Gma Linda at her work. We chatted for a few minutes, which was nice.
Papa flies back home to Oregon tonight, so we are taking him to dinner and the airport soon. Then, in just a few more weeks, he'll be back up to see you, little one! We. Can't. Wait.
Love love love,
Mama
At my 37 week appointment today, we found out that my body has made no progress toward delivering you. I'm still closed up. But that's okay (I guess) - you can stay cozy as long as you want (well, within reason).
Your heartbeat sounded good, my GBS test came back negative, and all seems well in our little pregnant world.
Since Papa is in town, we left Ruth with him while Daddy and I went to our appointment. Afterward, we stopped and got some ice cream (shh, don't tell!) and said hi to Gma Linda at her work. We chatted for a few minutes, which was nice.
Papa flies back home to Oregon tonight, so we are taking him to dinner and the airport soon. Then, in just a few more weeks, he'll be back up to see you, little one! We. Can't. Wait.
Love love love,
Mama
Wednesday, June 21, 2017
37 Weeks, 2 Days
Dear Baby Batts #2,
Sweet girl, my co-workers just threw me the sweetest little surprise baby shower for you! They all brought in desserts and decorated everything pink while I was in a fake meeting. I was so surprised! They gifted us a Babies-R-Us giftcard so that we can get you some new treasures, even.
This week has been emotional (to say the least), so I'm feeling very loved and known.
God is good.
Love,
Mama
Sweet girl, my co-workers just threw me the sweetest little surprise baby shower for you! They all brought in desserts and decorated everything pink while I was in a fake meeting. I was so surprised! They gifted us a Babies-R-Us giftcard so that we can get you some new treasures, even.
This week has been emotional (to say the least), so I'm feeling very loved and known.
God is good.
Love,
Mama
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