Guess who just got diagnosed with gestational diabetes? That's right, me. I just barely failed the tests, but I still failed. I get to do the whole diabetic education stuff and LEARN ME how to take my blood sugar, lol. Like I've never done this before being a nurse and all! Oh well. It sounds like I will be able to control the diabetes with a change in my diet. This means minimal carbs and simple sugars. Goodbye pastas and lots of breads :o(.
Women with multiples is 2-3 times more likely to develop GD. Ugh! Just one more thing to add to the list of how hard it is to have twins. Women who go through IVF also tend to have more problems. And maybe being 4 ft 11 inches adds to the stress.
Maybe I've said this before but I loved being pregnant with Ethan. This pregnancy, not so much and I can't wait until these babies arrive (of course when they are full term). The only thing I really enjoy is feeling those babies move!
Until next time...
Friday, September 16, 2011
Tuesday, September 13, 2011
It Is Possible to Crash a Mac Computer
Nope, I'm not able to post any pictures today. You'll have to wait. Why? Because I managed to crash our macintosh laptop. Most of our stuff was backed up except for Ethan's first year of video. The laptop was in the process of backing that up when it crashed. Thankfully, I married a computer guy who is working on getting the information from the old hard drive onto the new one. Whew! I thought about crying because I was so upset, but Jordan came to my rescue!
Last week was kind of a whirlwind. I ended up in the hospital Thursday night for lots of contractions that were really getting uncomfortable. They put me on IV medication to help stop that. I was suppose to go to the hospital this week anyway for a bunch of stuff so it worked out in the end. The babies are still doing great and are as active as ever. After a few tests were completed, I am not expected to go into labor for at least another 2 weeks. I am currently 28 weeks pregnant and chugging right along. I'm starting to feel like a beached whale. The beach is the couch, the whale is me.
Ethan is doing great. He has adjusted well to me being on bedrest. Jordan has done so well to step up as the mom and dad role. I love that man :o) Finally, Ethan is talking more and more. I thought he was going to be stuck saying the same 15 words forever. But with him only knowing a few words, he is still able to put words together. He amazes me every day, like when he manages to take ALL of the child-proof plugs out of the outlets, or get batteries out of toy that is suppose to be child-proof. Last night, I found that he took apart the telephone jack box apart, but was not so successful at putting it back together.
Our old house is all packed up thanks to Jordan and others who have helped. Jordan gets a little break and will be busy packing up our current house at the end of the month. We close on our new house in T minus 16 days!
Last week was kind of a whirlwind. I ended up in the hospital Thursday night for lots of contractions that were really getting uncomfortable. They put me on IV medication to help stop that. I was suppose to go to the hospital this week anyway for a bunch of stuff so it worked out in the end. The babies are still doing great and are as active as ever. After a few tests were completed, I am not expected to go into labor for at least another 2 weeks. I am currently 28 weeks pregnant and chugging right along. I'm starting to feel like a beached whale. The beach is the couch, the whale is me.
Ethan is doing great. He has adjusted well to me being on bedrest. Jordan has done so well to step up as the mom and dad role. I love that man :o) Finally, Ethan is talking more and more. I thought he was going to be stuck saying the same 15 words forever. But with him only knowing a few words, he is still able to put words together. He amazes me every day, like when he manages to take ALL of the child-proof plugs out of the outlets, or get batteries out of toy that is suppose to be child-proof. Last night, I found that he took apart the telephone jack box apart, but was not so successful at putting it back together.
Our old house is all packed up thanks to Jordan and others who have helped. Jordan gets a little break and will be busy packing up our current house at the end of the month. We close on our new house in T minus 16 days!
Wednesday, September 7, 2011
Sell a House, Buy a House
How crazy are our lives? Crazy enough that we sold our house and bought another one within a few days while I am on bedrest expecting twins just one month after we move in. Whew! We close on the house we are selling on September 26th and then close on the house we are buying on the 30th. Hopefully, I won't be on bedrest in the hospital at that point! The biggest thing we love about our new house is the huge fenced in back yard that is nicely landscaped. A fence is something we weren't allowed to have at our other house. The house is also just a block away from one of the best elementary schools. It's a pre-existing house built in the late 1960s. Some of the house needs a little renovation down the road but it still is a beautiful house! We are so excited.
What can I say about Ethan other than he is almost 2 years old. He has reached that 2 year old stage and wow is he a handful. Well, he always has been but you add a little age to that and watch out! Although he always has been a stubborn but he also is becoming defiant. Two great qualities to have to drive your parents nutty.
I had a doctor appointment yesterday and the babies look fabulous! They both are measuring well and moving lots. Heart beats are normal. I will be 28 weeks on Saturday and that is a great hurdle to get over. Now we must make it another month to improve the chances of having healthy little babies. Every day is a blessing!
So here are some pictures of the babies. Baby A is the little boy. Baby B is the little girl!
Tuesday, August 23, 2011
Belly Pictures
I haven't shared any of my twin belly pictures on here. Now you can see the evolving belly!
But first a quick update. My appointment on Monday (and every Monday from now until these babies arrive) went well. The babies continue to flip around into crazy positions. They are growing right on track! And I will remain on bedrest.
A few things to keep in mind:
1). I am currently 25 weeks pregnant. My belly is 44 inches around.
2). I do not know how much longer I will be able to drive since the steering wheel is starting to get in the way.
3). There are only 2 or 3 maternity shirts that I can fit into now. You will commonly see me in my night shirts or Jordan's t-shirts.
4). I feel like a beached whale as I roll out of bed or off the couch, literally!
5). These babies move like crazy and I don't get how they have room to completely flip around in 24 hours!
6). We definitely are done having kids after this!
10 Weeks Pregnant
12 Weeks Pregnant
14.5 Weeks Pregnant
21 Weeks Pregnant
25 Weeks Pregnant
But first a quick update. My appointment on Monday (and every Monday from now until these babies arrive) went well. The babies continue to flip around into crazy positions. They are growing right on track! And I will remain on bedrest.
A few things to keep in mind:
1). I am currently 25 weeks pregnant. My belly is 44 inches around.
2). I do not know how much longer I will be able to drive since the steering wheel is starting to get in the way.
3). There are only 2 or 3 maternity shirts that I can fit into now. You will commonly see me in my night shirts or Jordan's t-shirts.
4). I feel like a beached whale as I roll out of bed or off the couch, literally!
5). These babies move like crazy and I don't get how they have room to completely flip around in 24 hours!
6). We definitely are done having kids after this!
10 Weeks Pregnant
12 Weeks Pregnant
14.5 Weeks Pregnant
21 Weeks Pregnant
25 Weeks Pregnant
Friday, August 19, 2011
Ultrasound Photos!
I have an ultrasound every week I go to the doctor, but the picture quality doesn't compare to the newest ultrasound technology that is available. Fortunately, I get to have 3D/4D ultrasounds every 4 weeks to watch the growth of the babies. So, here are the ultrasound pictures from 19 weeks and from today. During the first ultrasound, the little girl was not cooperating so we only got a few pictures of her. Today, the little boy was not cooperating. I am 25 weeks tomorrow!
19 Weeks, Baby Girl's Legs
19 Weeks, Lots of Legs and Feet
19 Weeks, Baby Boy
19 Weeks, Baby Boy's Profile
Almost 25 Weeks, Baby Girl
Almost 25 Weeks, Baby Boy's Profile
Almost 25 Weeks, Three Legs and One Arm
Almost 25 Weeks, Baby Girl's Profile
19 Weeks, Baby Girl's Legs
19 Weeks, Lots of Legs and Feet
19 Weeks, Baby Boy
19 Weeks, Baby Boy's Profile
Almost 25 Weeks, Baby Girl
Almost 25 Weeks, Baby Boy's Profile
Almost 25 Weeks, Three Legs and One Arm
Almost 25 Weeks, Baby Girl's Profile
Wednesday, August 17, 2011
We Are Back!
Yes, we are still alive! Our lives have changed drastically in the last few months. So let me get you up to speed on what's happening around here!
If you don't already know, I AM PREGNANT--------> WITH TWINS! We are expecting one boy and one girl that are due December 3rd and I am currently 24 weeks pregnant. We are hoping to make it past November 12. Due to our high risk pregnancy, I have been on bedrest since last week (23 weeks). This means Jordan has taken over most of the duties in the house, including being the primary caretaker for Ethan.
Ethan is doing very well despite my bedrest. He likes to sit by me and play. But, it lasts for just moments until he is off and running to do other things. I wish I had as much energy as him. He is growing like a weed! He loves to run, jump, and play with trucks and balls like a typical boy. I can't believe that he isn't a baby anymore!
We also moved out of our beautiful house and into a temporary house (formerly our rental house) so we can sell our house. We decided to downsize and move a more friendly neighborhood. We LOVE living on the west side of Rapid City! It seems we all are happier living here, too! As soon as our house sells, we will start hunting for a new house. This will give us more room to buy a boat/camper and take nice family vacations down the road. Anyone want to buy a nice house on a golf course?
Well, there is our life in a nutshell. Since I am now on bed rest, I will have time to update frequently. Until then, here are pictures of Ethan from June and July. And yes, he is obsessed with his golf clubs.
Tuesday, June 28, 2011
What do you think we are having?
I had an appointment yesterday and all looks great so far! I am measuring 25 weeks but am 17 weeks along! We get our big fancy 3D/4D anatomical ultrasound in two weeks!
So what do you think we are having?
1). two boys
2). two girls
3). one boy and one girl
So what do you think we are having?
1). two boys
2). two girls
3). one boy and one girl
Saturday, June 11, 2011
Homemade slushies
Just to show you all that we still exist, I am going to post a real simple summer slushy recipe. I have been craving slushies. This is a super cheap way to make them at home!
Homemade Slushies
1 pack of unsweetened kool-aid, any flavor
2 cups of water
1/2-3/4 cup of sugar
4 cups of cubed ice
Mix ingredients and blend. But I add a little more water and cubed ice because I like a lighter taste. It is pretty strong as this recipe is written. Also, I dissolve the sugar in the water. To add a little extra kick, decrease the amount of water and sugar, and add some 7-up or ginger ale!
It makes 4-6 glasses.
Cost is less than 20 cents for all the ingredients!
Enjoy!
Homemade Slushies
1 pack of unsweetened kool-aid, any flavor
2 cups of water
1/2-3/4 cup of sugar
4 cups of cubed ice
Mix ingredients and blend. But I add a little more water and cubed ice because I like a lighter taste. It is pretty strong as this recipe is written. Also, I dissolve the sugar in the water. To add a little extra kick, decrease the amount of water and sugar, and add some 7-up or ginger ale!
It makes 4-6 glasses.
Cost is less than 20 cents for all the ingredients!
Enjoy!
Friday, March 18, 2011
Let's Talk About Infertility
Infertility. It still is a subject that can bring an elephant into a room, though it has gotten better in the last 10 years (I think). Each couple, each person reacts to the diagnosis of infertility differently. Most people don't like to talk about it because infertility is such a personal problem. And you would not believe the comments that come out of peoples' mouths. So here I am to educate you a little bit about infertility.
Definition of infertility: unable to conceive; woman unable to get or keep a pregnancy; man unable to impregnate
Approximately 2 out of 10 (or 20%) of couples are unable to conceive within one year. Chances are, you know someone who has or is going through this problem. You may, or may not, know about it. Of the 20%, 10% will get pregnant either naturally or with medical help after one year. Male and female issues are equally responsible for the infertility at 40% each. The remaining 20% are unknown/undiagnosed issues.
So imagine trying month after month after month, then year after year to have a baby. It truly is an emotional rollercoaster. There is constant disappointment, constant wondering what is wrong, and a feeling of utter failure. Each month, you start fresh and get excited only to feel totally devastated later. And then you start all over again.
After over 4 years of devastation, disappointment, anger, and sadness, we finally were able to get pregnant and stay pregnant (we miscarried twins prior to this). We were not able to do it the au natural way. Fortunately, there have been huge medical advances to give couples like us a chance to have a family. Because of that, we met our beautiful baby boy on Nov 3, 2009. We are fortunate enough to be able to afford the medical interventions--it's not cheap--unlike so many couples. Only 13 states cover all or part of infertility issues.
So a few things I ask of you when you are dealing with a couple who are having trouble conceiving...
1). Initially, don't be too nosey. They will talk about it when they are ready. But do ask how they are feeling because it is such an emotional subject.
2). Watch what you say... Please DO NOT say stuff like this
- "Why don't you just adopt?" Personal choice and not something for you to bring up. They've probably already thought about it. And adopting is actually more expensive than most infertility treatments.
- "Whenever I look at my husband, I get pregnant." Makes them feel even worse and like they are failures, doesn't help out how they feel at all!
- "If I have twins, I'll give you one." Really? You really would? Don't lie.
- "Just relax and it will happen." If I charge everyone $1 for how many times I heard this, I would be rich. The majority of couples who have been trying for over a year actually have something medically wrong with him/her. You saying it doesn't make relaxing any easier.
- "Are you doing it right?" Oh I love this one.
3). Don't give out advice like this:
- "Are you putting your hips up after?"
- "Have you tried standing on your head?"
- "Hop backwards seven times."
Yes, I personally was told all of these comments. Some of you may not see why this is a big deal. But unless you've been in shoes that go through infertility, you won't understand. And I hope none of you have to understand.
So why am I writing about infertility? Chances are that there is someone out there who is going through it. I've had the privilege to help others out in the last few years with infertility that have come to me personally about questions and concerns. I've enjoyed helping them so much. It brings a smile to my face. And of the 4 people who have contacted me, I'm happy to announce all of them have either given birth or are currently pregnant.
As for citing any references, the information you see here is pretty much the general statement in most articles or on most internet sites. I had a couple years to do research and gather information. I almost feel like an expert. In fact, I know more about the male and female reproductive system than human should have to know. :o) :o) :o)
Definition of infertility: unable to conceive; woman unable to get or keep a pregnancy; man unable to impregnate
Approximately 2 out of 10 (or 20%) of couples are unable to conceive within one year. Chances are, you know someone who has or is going through this problem. You may, or may not, know about it. Of the 20%, 10% will get pregnant either naturally or with medical help after one year. Male and female issues are equally responsible for the infertility at 40% each. The remaining 20% are unknown/undiagnosed issues.
So imagine trying month after month after month, then year after year to have a baby. It truly is an emotional rollercoaster. There is constant disappointment, constant wondering what is wrong, and a feeling of utter failure. Each month, you start fresh and get excited only to feel totally devastated later. And then you start all over again.
After over 4 years of devastation, disappointment, anger, and sadness, we finally were able to get pregnant and stay pregnant (we miscarried twins prior to this). We were not able to do it the au natural way. Fortunately, there have been huge medical advances to give couples like us a chance to have a family. Because of that, we met our beautiful baby boy on Nov 3, 2009. We are fortunate enough to be able to afford the medical interventions--it's not cheap--unlike so many couples. Only 13 states cover all or part of infertility issues.
So a few things I ask of you when you are dealing with a couple who are having trouble conceiving...
1). Initially, don't be too nosey. They will talk about it when they are ready. But do ask how they are feeling because it is such an emotional subject.
2). Watch what you say... Please DO NOT say stuff like this
- "Why don't you just adopt?" Personal choice and not something for you to bring up. They've probably already thought about it. And adopting is actually more expensive than most infertility treatments.
- "Whenever I look at my husband, I get pregnant." Makes them feel even worse and like they are failures, doesn't help out how they feel at all!
- "If I have twins, I'll give you one." Really? You really would? Don't lie.
- "Just relax and it will happen." If I charge everyone $1 for how many times I heard this, I would be rich. The majority of couples who have been trying for over a year actually have something medically wrong with him/her. You saying it doesn't make relaxing any easier.
- "Are you doing it right?" Oh I love this one.
3). Don't give out advice like this:
- "Are you putting your hips up after?"
- "Have you tried standing on your head?"
- "Hop backwards seven times."
Yes, I personally was told all of these comments. Some of you may not see why this is a big deal. But unless you've been in shoes that go through infertility, you won't understand. And I hope none of you have to understand.
So why am I writing about infertility? Chances are that there is someone out there who is going through it. I've had the privilege to help others out in the last few years with infertility that have come to me personally about questions and concerns. I've enjoyed helping them so much. It brings a smile to my face. And of the 4 people who have contacted me, I'm happy to announce all of them have either given birth or are currently pregnant.
As for citing any references, the information you see here is pretty much the general statement in most articles or on most internet sites. I had a couple years to do research and gather information. I almost feel like an expert. In fact, I know more about the male and female reproductive system than human should have to know. :o) :o) :o)
Wednesday, March 2, 2011
Amazing Story, Amazing People
I needed to share this amazing story about our friends. This was the friend who became paralyzed after a dirtbiking accident in August 2009. It was really neat to see this in the newspaper today. Jordan was with Thore when the accident happened. I called Justine to tell her the news and picked her up to take her to the hospital. It was an unforgettable evening with a family who's lives changed forever in an instant. Don't forget to hug your loved ones every day.
http://www.rapidcityjournal.com/news/article_babae50c-4477-11e0-8199-001cc4c03286.html
(you will have to copy and paste because adding the link does not seem to work)
Grab a box of kleenex...
http://www.rapidcityjournal.com/news/article_babae50c-4477-11e0-8199-001cc4c03286.html
(you will have to copy and paste because adding the link does not seem to work)
Grab a box of kleenex...
Sunday, February 20, 2011
No Time for Anything.
Originally, I started out writing this post yesterday. As you can see, I am now finishing the post today.
I have been getting some pokes that I haven't updated the blog lately. Just a few days ago, I realized it has been over a month since my last post! In fact, there was still Christmas music playing. So, here it goes.
January was filled with lots of action! Jordan's family was here from England. Then, we had Cindy (Jordan's mom) stay with us until she left for Liberia, Africa to continue doing missions. Jordan has been sick a lot with the random flu or cold. And Ethan mostly has been able stay healthy.
In the coming months, there will be a lot going on in and around the Marshall household. One of the biggest things we are looking forward to is SPRING! We all are getting that spring fever and sick of being cooped up in the house with so little to do. In the summer, so many of the tourist stuff is open and we have several options of what to do. But during the winter, it is either go to the mall or go to the family swim center. And it doesn't help I have an appropriate "mommy" swimsuit to wear anymore. So a new swimsuit is on the list of items to buy.
As I write this, I look outside at the 8+ inches of snow that have fallen in the last 24 hours. Boo. At least we can go play outside in the snow. If it ever warms up...
Ethan, Ethan, Ethan. He still is our bundle of energy who refuses to sit still. He loves to climb on things. He loves to jump. He loves to dance. He LOVES, LOVES, LOVES to watch Phineas and Ferb on television. Oh, and he loves to scream and throw tantrums. He is quite determined and hard-headed (like his dad). Here is a funny story. When Ethan starts throwing his tantrum, I put him in his room and tell him he can come out when he is ready, and I partially close his door. But, Ethan found a way to show he is displeased. He slams the door shut. LOL. How does a 15 month old learn that?
Because of my lack of blogging, I will keep you posted a little better in the coming months!
He LOVES daddy's bike and didn't want to get off.
Found HIS baby bouncer and watching Phineas and Ferb
Still an obsession.
I have been getting some pokes that I haven't updated the blog lately. Just a few days ago, I realized it has been over a month since my last post! In fact, there was still Christmas music playing. So, here it goes.
January was filled with lots of action! Jordan's family was here from England. Then, we had Cindy (Jordan's mom) stay with us until she left for Liberia, Africa to continue doing missions. Jordan has been sick a lot with the random flu or cold. And Ethan mostly has been able stay healthy.
In the coming months, there will be a lot going on in and around the Marshall household. One of the biggest things we are looking forward to is SPRING! We all are getting that spring fever and sick of being cooped up in the house with so little to do. In the summer, so many of the tourist stuff is open and we have several options of what to do. But during the winter, it is either go to the mall or go to the family swim center. And it doesn't help I have an appropriate "mommy" swimsuit to wear anymore. So a new swimsuit is on the list of items to buy.
As I write this, I look outside at the 8+ inches of snow that have fallen in the last 24 hours. Boo. At least we can go play outside in the snow. If it ever warms up...
Ethan, Ethan, Ethan. He still is our bundle of energy who refuses to sit still. He loves to climb on things. He loves to jump. He loves to dance. He LOVES, LOVES, LOVES to watch Phineas and Ferb on television. Oh, and he loves to scream and throw tantrums. He is quite determined and hard-headed (like his dad). Here is a funny story. When Ethan starts throwing his tantrum, I put him in his room and tell him he can come out when he is ready, and I partially close his door. But, Ethan found a way to show he is displeased. He slams the door shut. LOL. How does a 15 month old learn that?
Because of my lack of blogging, I will keep you posted a little better in the coming months!
He LOVES daddy's bike and didn't want to get off.
Found HIS baby bouncer and watching Phineas and Ferb
Still an obsession.
Sunday, January 16, 2011
Unwrap Those Presents!
Merry Christmas (belated), Happy Holidays, and Happy New Year!
Even though the Holiday season can be so crazy and sometimes stressful, it still is my favorite time of year. The presents under the tree, the music playing in the background, the big snowflakes falling from the sky...it all is wonderful. But we also remember what Christmas is about. Jesus is the reason for the season. And the quality time with family is treasured.
For those who are not able to celebrate with us here on earth, we hope that you were still able to share each moment with us.
We are so thankful for all we have. And we thank all of you, our friends and family, for all you've done for us.
P.S. Now, Ethan has learned how to ride his battery-operated 4-wheeler squatting, standing on his seat, standing on the foot rest, laying on the seat, or sitting backwards. Maybe we should get a smaller deductible on our health insurance...
Even though the Holiday season can be so crazy and sometimes stressful, it still is my favorite time of year. The presents under the tree, the music playing in the background, the big snowflakes falling from the sky...it all is wonderful. But we also remember what Christmas is about. Jesus is the reason for the season. And the quality time with family is treasured.
For those who are not able to celebrate with us here on earth, we hope that you were still able to share each moment with us.
We are so thankful for all we have. And we thank all of you, our friends and family, for all you've done for us.
P.S. Now, Ethan has learned how to ride his battery-operated 4-wheeler squatting, standing on his seat, standing on the foot rest, laying on the seat, or sitting backwards. Maybe we should get a smaller deductible on our health insurance...
Pre-Christmas
The computer has been on the back burner for awhile. I didn't do well with keeping up with e-mails, checking facebook, or looking at blogs. And I admit it has been pretty nice! We have been able to spend lots of quality time together.
So it is time to update you on the happenings of the Marshall family starting from pre-Christmas!
I worked way too many hours prior to Christmas. So it was wonderful to have a whole week off. I was able to put the tree up just a few days before Christmas.
Pre-Ethan Christmas Tree
Ethan Discovering the Christmas Tree
Post-Ethan Christmas Tree
We managed to block the tree off and have minimal tree catastrophes!
Oh how I love this time of year!
So it is time to update you on the happenings of the Marshall family starting from pre-Christmas!
I worked way too many hours prior to Christmas. So it was wonderful to have a whole week off. I was able to put the tree up just a few days before Christmas.
Pre-Ethan Christmas Tree
Ethan Discovering the Christmas Tree
Post-Ethan Christmas Tree
We managed to block the tree off and have minimal tree catastrophes!
Oh how I love this time of year!
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