tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-77128688161665198602024-03-05T08:43:56.125-07:00Here To WhereThe whims, passions, and ideas of a silly little girlAlyssahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06164287844038148131noreply@blogger.comBlogger173125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7712868816166519860.post-64909396813123531202019-03-29T17:32:00.000-07:002019-03-29T18:33:08.714-07:00Alfie Kimball<!--[if gte mso 9]><xml>
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Alfie’s Birth Story<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
3/29/2017<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
11:46PM<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
8lbs, 11oz; 21 ¾” long<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
This Wednesday morning started out like any regular day with
me getting ready for work. One significant difference, however, started with my
breakfast. Rather than my typical cold cereal, on this day I prepared a
labor-inducing Internet find: castor oil scrambled eggs. It sounds horrible,
and it looked horrible, but, surprisingly, it just tasted like eggs! I know. The general recommendation is to not use castor oil for labor induction, at least not without discussing it with your provider first. So...don't be like Alyssa. After breakfast, o<span style="font-size: 12pt;">ff to
work I went, with my shift starting at 7:30.</span></div>
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<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Again following what I’d read online, I decided to take
another, smaller dose of castor oil around 9:00. I mixed it with Sprite,
chugged it, and then chased it with straight Sprite. It was fine! Somewhere in
the 10:00 hour I began to feel my first contractions. Over the next couple
hours I continued to feel contractions, but when I would look at the clock and
roughly time them, I didn’t find any regularity. My coworkers were getting
excited as I mentioned I was contracting. To help ensure that contractions
continued and that this was <b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">the real
deal</b>, around 2:30 I repeated the castor oil/Sprite regimen. Over the next
couple hours I continued to have contractions at work. Still no consistency,
but they persisted. I wasn’t in severe pain, but I was uncomfortable. My back
was beginning to ache. Thankfully, it wasn’t a busy afternoon at work because
I was worthless! I don’t think I did any direct patient care the entire
afternoon. I normally clock out at 6, but even just shy of that at about 5:45 I
came out of the bathroom, uncomfortable and impatient, and requested to go
home. At this point, I was mildly disappointed. While the castor oil seemed to
be doing the trick, I hadn’t began active labor and had a baby yet, so I would
likely be laboring through the night and deliver in the middle of the night or
early morning. YAWN. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Before leaving I
made sure to tell Adam, my call team leader (I was on call this day!), that I
likely would not be a reliable call person that night!<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
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I got home at around 6:15 and texted Janis just to let her
know I’d been contracting throughout the day. She asked if she should come, but
I told her to wait. I wanted to properly time the contractions to see if there
was any regularity to when they were coming. I knew from Beatrix’s birth that I
didn’t want to wait too long before having Janis come, but at the same time I
didn’t want her to drive all the way to us only to be waiting around for hours
and hours. As it turns out, when I used an actual timer and paid attention to
the contractions, they were coming regularly and consistently. I was still
easily tolerating the pain, but because the contractions were close together, I
decided to have Janis head our way after all. I let my mom know what was
happening and she came over. Phill went to work getting the tub set up, then we
got the girls into bed. They were being SO CUTE. At times during the evening
Eleanor was shouting “Yay Baby!”. <o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
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Janis and Amber, the RN birthing assistant, arrived shortly
after 8. I was still doing okay, tolerating moderately difficult contractions.
We chatted while they got supplies around and set up. I went to the bathroom to
change into a swimsuit, came back into the bedroom, and, much to my surprise,
after just a few minutes my water broke while I was standing beside the pool! I
was not anticipating that at all.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I
continued to labor for a while longer, intermittently pausing to work through a
contraction. Contractions slowly became more intense, but I don’t have this
sensation that they were ever very horrible. At some point during my labor Tash
arrived. This beautiful angel packed up her whole family that morning when I
merely let her know that I’d been irregularly contracting and made the long trip up from Nashville. She dropped
everything to be present for my birth. I love her always. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Once we confirmed that the tub water was the appropriate
temperature, I got in the tub for the remainder of my labor. Some time after I
got in the tub, Phill’s mom arrived. The weirdest thing about this labor was
how much time lapsed between each contraction. Even up until the end, I had a
good 5-6 minutes between contractions! This made it seem like a very long
labor, when, in fact, it was still quite quick. I think because I had these
lengthy pauses in between each contraction, it made each contraction far easier
to tolerate. If it
wasn’t for my impatience and Janis’ gentle encouragement to try pushing, I
probably would have labored for a few more hours. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
This labor process also differed from my past birth
experiences because I didn’t feel a strong bodily urge to push. It was very
much an active thing. This is where the real work came in for this birth. I had
to work to push SO much harder than I ever remember doing with the girls. At
first, I felt like I couldn’t really push. It just felt ineffective, and, like
I said before, I felt like I could tolerate a little more time in this labor.
However, I was ready to be done. I wanted to meet this baby. Janis suggested
changing positions. She suggested I try standing. I did not like this
suggestion. Up until this time I had been on my knees, leaning forward onto the
edge of the birth tub. I tried sitting more upright on my knees and swaying. It
didn’t really help me progress or feel like I was able to push any better.
Finally, when things were really starting to get more uncomfortable, I took her
advice and stood up. Admittedly, part of why I delayed standing was from a
modesty standpoint. My mom and mother in law were present! I was standing and
swaying, struggling to work through the discomfort. I knew that with the next
contraction I was going to push as hard as I could. The contraction came and I
started to push. I immediately felt baby descend, and I dropped to one knee.
Baby’s head was right there at the vaginal opening. It was insanely
uncomfortable. I was so frustrated not only because of the discomfort, but also
because I had to wait for the next contraction (remember how far apart my
contractions had been?!) before I could fully push him out! But push (HARD!) I
did, and at 11:46PM No-Name baby Oprie was born! We discussed how special this
birth date is because it’s the anniversary of my Grandma Carmien’s death. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I honestly don’t remember who actually caught him and
brought him up. I’m assuming I did because I instinctively did that with
Eleanor and Beatrix. I immediately checked to see if he really was a boy
because I still half didn’t believe it! We then proceeded with the placenta
delivery and all the other various check-ups and instructions. Janis and Amber
left at about 2:30 and we were finally able to get some sleep. Tash slept in
the spare room. We all woke up later in the morning to get the girls around and
introduce them to their new baby brother! They were both immediately smitten. I
ate Johnny’s breakfast in bed (my after birth tradition!) and stayed in our room all day. A truly marvelous
aspect of home birth! <o:p></o:p><br />
<br />
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Alfred "Alfie" Kimball Oprie</div>
<br /></div>
<!--EndFragment--><br />Alyssahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06164287844038148131noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7712868816166519860.post-70387598349991192122016-09-02T06:25:00.000-07:002016-09-02T06:25:47.137-07:00Feared HappinessIt's difficult to know where to start to describe my thoughts and emotions right now. I'm so very happy, but I have this nagging fear that keeps creeping into my heart.<br />
<br />
<b>I am 9 weeks pregnant.</b><br />
<br />
This is what I wanted. Deeply. I imagined that once I was able to get pregnant again I would feel intense joy. But that wasn't exactly what happened. For one, I wasn't expecting the positive test when I read it. Sure, we had been trying, but I had settled into the mindset that it could potentially take some time because of my surgery in April. Secondly, my grief process after surgery was complicated. I didn't grieve heavily immediately afterwards. I actually felt relief. An ectopic pregnancy can be very dangerous so I initially felt relief that I was under care of a fantastic midwife and a fantastic physician who helped save my life and preserve my future fertility. But, grief did come to me. Certain days and certain events would trigger something in my brain that made me relive my miscarriage from 2012 and then also realize that something similar had just happened...again. The day I found out I was pregnant again happened to be one of those days. I had spent my afternoon and evening grieving and then that night I found out I was pregnant. I had to reach out to my closest friends immediately, not because I was even ready to share this news, but because my emotional state felt so raw and unsteady that I knew I needed their support right away.<br />
<br />
The very next day started a myriad of testing. At my surgery follow-up appointment my doctor had said that I would, unfortunately, have to have a bit of a "pessimistic" (his exact word) mindset right at the start of learning I was pregnant purely because I was now at a higher risk for a repeat ectopic pregnancy. Once my lab values indicated we would be able to see an embryo, I had an ultrasound to rule out an ectopic pregnancy. I don't know that I've ever been more anxious than those minutes I spent in the waiting room waiting for that ultrasound. I was shaking and had tears welling up in my eyes.<br />
<br />
This is not an ectopic pregnancy. This is absolutely amazing news, but I noticed my fear was not relieved. I found that I was still waiting for <i>anything</i> bad to happen. I have miscarried before, after all.<br />
<br />
Thankfully, I have been feeling more content with my pregnancy lately. This likely has to do with my already rounder lower abdomen and the other first trimester symptoms that I'm feeling. I am <b><i>incredibly</i></b> thankful to be feeling these crappy feelings! When I learned my progesterone was low and I should begin injections, I was not happy. I felt that perhaps my body was "failing" again. When my progesterone levels proved to be rising very well, I did feel happy! This is all still so early (which is terrifying), but I want to be able to talk openly about how I'm feeling. This is healthy for me. I also think that this could help me in feeling excitement rather than dwelling on the "what-ifs".<br />
<br />
Phew. I need to be transparent right now and share that writing all of this down has realllllly brought on some deeply scared feelings. I feel no shame in requesting all of your thoughts, prayers, and well wishes. Oh, and for you curious people, my estimated due date is April 4th, 2017. :-)<br />
<br />Alyssahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06164287844038148131noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7712868816166519860.post-90617532926383490242016-05-03T17:42:00.001-07:002016-05-03T17:42:09.477-07:00This Wasn't Part of the PlanAs I write this I am 3 days post-op from my laparoscopy. Also, it has been 3 years and 1 day since my first earth baby was born and it has been exactly 4 years since I learned my very first baby had no heart beat.<br />
<br />
Early May wields a heavy blow.<br />
<br />
Physically and emotionally speaking, I truly have been doing well since surgery. I've been surprised by my lack of sadness. I was sad and scared the day just before surgery, but from the moment I woke up from anesthesia I've simply felt relieved. Today, though, has been a struggle in a way I wasn't anticipating. Babies bring your body hormones and when that baby needs to be removed from your body, those hormones shift, and boy have they been a-shiftin' today. I tried to go to work, but after an hour I headed home. My exhaustion and my migraine have been kicking my butt this entire day. Also, my mind has started to entertain thoughts of the future, but it's different now.<br />
<br />
I know I want more children. My pregnancies, births, and postpartum experiences with Eleanor and Beatrix were so healing for me. After trying to have a baby without success for a great while, and then losing our first baby, I was wrecked with fear and I wasn't certain my body could handle the task of having a baby. I know many women would wholeheartedly disagree with me, as their experiences are their own and not mine, but for me there has been no greater time than my first few weeks with my new baby. I accomplished this great task called childbirth and it was exhilarating. I felt such empowerment and strength after birthing my babies and in those immediate weeks that followed I felt so much pride introducing the world to my new child. I <i>loved</i> constantly holding my new baby, I <i>loved</i> changing my new baby's diaper, I <i>loved</i> nursing my baby, I even loved waking with my baby...sometimes.<br />
<br />
Now, though, the process is tainted again. I cruelly joked with myself that I only have a 50% success rate carrying babies so far. While it isn't incorrect, it also isn't a healthy viewpoint. Fear has crept back into my life. I'm not sure how long Phillip and I should pause now. This recently lost baby was planned so perfectly. I was so pleased with how it all came about and how my postpartum experience would be even better this time around, but now that's gone and I can't make sense of what another time might look like. Will my next pregnancy end with a baby? When is the right time? Is there a right time? That damn 50% keeps ringing in my ears. I've spent time today really assessing this life of mine. My miscarriage was real, yet now it seems so long ago. My surgery was so recent, yet it doesn't seem like a part of my timeline. No one ever plans for things like this, but even now that it's a part of me, I still can't seem to quite accept it. Did this really happen? I just had <i>surgery?!</i> The worrying part is the closer I get to acceptance of this truth, the closer I creep to the fear of it all happening again. I know I should be content with my two amazing children, but when I consider the possibility of no more children, of straying from MY PLAN, my perceived happiness, my brow furrows and sadness overwhelms me.<br />
<br />
This is the story written for me. I don't know the ending and I'm only just coming to terms with the middle plot. I am exhausted. I am uncertain of many things. I am certain, though, that during this very difficult past week, I have felt some of the most tangible love from people in every facet of my life. My coworkers, my family, my church family, my dearest friends, and distant acquaintances have blessed us in ways great and small. I suppose that is how I can continue to walk and make sense of even the most unsettling things in life: I have love in my life. I want a plan. I want to know all of the answers. I know that's not reality for any of us, though. There is fear and darkness, but there is also love and light. With time, and with help, I'm sure I'll feel the light's warmth.Alyssahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06164287844038148131noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7712868816166519860.post-73902222767854317352014-09-14T20:05:00.002-07:002014-09-14T20:14:39.368-07:00Beatrix KayI woke up around 2:30AM on September 12th to regular contractions occurring about every 2 minutes and lasting 30-40 seconds each. They weren't terribly severe, but after a couple hours, I figured I should call Janice (my midwife) since they were so close together. Since I didn't sound to be working terribly hard to overcome the contraction pains, Janice suggested I take a bath, take some Tylenol, drink some water, and see if the contractions die down or endure. Even though the bath was really relaxing, the contractions continued. I was hoping I would be able to get some more rest after the bath since I was pretty tired, but the dang contractions prevented it. The contractions were particularly annoying because even though they continued, they weren't picking up much at all in severity.<br />
<br />
Because the contractions kept going, I was pretty convinced I was going to meet my baby that day! I was quite disheartened, though, because it was seeming as though this labor was just going to take f o r e v e r , which I really hadn't anticipated. We spread the word to the masses and our loved ones started heading our way and making arrangements. Phillip went off to class for a quiz because I was confident that I wouldn't be having a baby anytime too soon. Not too long after he left for school, though, I texted him saying the contractions were more intense so he should try to take his quiz and then head back home. He agreed, but it wasn't more than an hour later that I texted him again saying the contractions were lightening up! I was seriously so confused by what my body was doing.<br />
<br />
For the rest of the afternoon I only had sporadic contractions. Mom, Eleanor, Margot, and I went on a walk to see if that would rev things into a higher gear, but...nope. I was beginning to feel guilty thinking that all these people were headed our way to celebrate a new baby that wasn't even going to be making an appearance that day, after all.<br />
<br />
Around 6:15-6:30PM the family (my mom, my dad, Phill's mom, Trey, myself, Phill, and Eleanor) all sat down for dinner. This is also when contractions started back up again. The contractions were painful and again starting to form a pattern, but I wasn't even thinking of them being actual labor contractions anymore. I had essentially convinced myself that it wasn't going to be tonight, especially since it was already evening. For the rest of the meal, I made frequent pauses to get through the contractions. My mom and Phillip's mom both stated they thought I seemed to be working much harder to overcome these contraction pains. After laboring around the dining room for a while and experiencing quite a bit of pain, I started to realize (although not quite believing it) that these must be true labor pains. I finally called Janis at 7:15PM. We agreed that I would labor and then call her back after 30 minutes to check progress. However, only 7 minutes after hanging up with her I had Phill call her back to have her go ahead and make her way over. I was having a hard time dealing with the contractions, so I knew I wanted her there. I also knew it would take her at least an hour in travel time.<br />
<br />
I made my way upstairs to the bedroom and asked Phill to begin filling the birth tub. His mom helped me change into my bikini top. I was really struggling physically and mentally. The intense bodily pain I was feeling after such a short amount of time convinced me that I wasn't handling this labor as well as I did with Eleanor's birth. I remember saying things like, "I don't know what to do" and "Nothing is good!". I couldn't find any sort of comfortable position. Somehow, I ended up on all fours on the floor of our bedroom. It nearly seemed like I was beginning to feel the urge to push. I couldn't help but embrace that feeling, and then my waters broke. It was so surprising; a big ol' explosion! I remember my initial thought, after surprise, was fear because I just knew this meant things were actually about to get <i>more</i> strong and intense. I simply wasn't sure how I would be able to handle it. Phill called Janis to tell her my water had broken. He called her back just 6 minutes later to report that I was saying I felt like I needed to push. She was still on the road in Roanoke. The tub was only half full, but we all began to realize this baby was COMING. No time to wait for a full birthing tub! I then began crawling around the floor assisting and instructing "the moms" to cover the floor with plastic tarp, towels, and absorbent chucks pads. Janis was on speakerphone steadily giving instruction. Praise the Lord for Phill who had read through the "In Case of Fast Labor" instructions we were given. He was so in the zone and focused on delivering the baby properly and safely. It may have been an incredibly quick experience, but it's still impressive that I never for even a second saw a glimpse of doubt on his face. Other than overcoming the physical battle I was enduring, my only thought was getting the baby out and ensuring the cord wasn't tight around her neck. Mom J. and Mom O. were kiiinda freaking out, but reasonably so!<br />
<br />
A contraction came on. I was on my knees on the floor next to the half-full tub. I swear I wasn't even pushing yet but baby was coming down and out so I had to make the conscious decision to <i>push</i> the baby out. More pain? Yes. Burning? You got it. I had my hands down feeling for a cord around the neck and Phill had his hands in place to catch the baby. With that one push, Beatrix Kay entered this world with a cry, perfect in every way. I glanced at the phone; it was 8:04 PM. Less than 2 hours since active labor began. I looked her over intently while making sure she was covered with the towel. I quickly noticed her dark hair just like her sister had, and vernix across her back and head differing from her sister. <br />
<br />
It's safe to say shock was the overall feeling in the room! I didn't know what else to do, so I just brought her to breast to start nursing. We all sat there examining sweet baby and discussing our disbelief with what had just happened when Janis finally arrived and began looking us over and taking the reigns. Shortly after she arrived I felt another contraction and delivered the placenta. Janis cut the cord.<br />
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Tash arrived at some point shortly after delivery, as well. So many exact details are blurred in my mind because the whole process went so ridiculously quick! I feel like I'm leaving holes in the story, but I also know there wasn't a lot of time so perhaps there really aren't too many holes missing anyway! Elissa, the birth assistant RN, arrived, too, and the rest of the time was spent examining myself and baby. Beatrix's lungs were a bit congested so Janis began working to get her to cry to help clear the lungs. This turned out to be much more difficult than you could imagine! This sweet newborn just did not have have anything other than a little cat-like meow cry in her! Ultimately, of course, her lungs cleared out anyway and all vital signs were good.<br />
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Beatrix was nearly identical in size to what her big sister Eleanor was at birth. Beatrix weighed in at 8 lbs 3 oz (just one ounce more than Eleanor) and measured 20 3/4" in length (identical to Eleanor). I was stunned, and THRILLED to be finished with the crazy difficult labor pain. Did we really just deliver our baby on our own?! We'll always have this impressive, bizarre story to tell. It still blows my mind that I went from thinking it wouldn't be that day to birthing a baby all within the matter of a few hours.<br />
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There are literally no pictures of the labor or birth because no one had any time to take any!Alyssahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06164287844038148131noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7712868816166519860.post-44522084334557282382014-02-08T19:03:00.000-07:002014-02-08T19:10:56.020-07:00Surprise, Celebration, Blessing<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Surprise friends!<br />
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It's really difficult to read in the picture above, but the news is we're expecting Baby Oprie #2 at the very end of summer! We had decided that we weren't going to necessarily prevent pregnancy, and I've sworn to never take any hormonal birth control again, but we were both pretty surprised when the pregnancy test I took on a whim was actually positive! We had an ultrasound earlier this week to let us know how far along I am in pregnancy since we had no idea when this little babe came to be because of my crazy lady cycle and a poor memory. It's still early, as I'm currently 8.5 weeks pregnant, but it was exhilarating to yet again see the tiniest little heart flickering on that ultrasound screen.<br />
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I can already tell this pregnancy will fly by much quicker than the first since I have Eleanor to look after. Also, you truly do start showing earlier with subsequent pregnancies. I already feel the need to use a rubber band on my jeans and my constant hunger hasn't helped anything! It's incredibly difficult to grow one child while still feeding another!<br />
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Our first two children will be 16 months apart. Its crazy and it's beautiful. I told Phillip I'm going to try not to get pregnant in 2015 <span style="font-family: Times,"Times New Roman",serif;">:)</span>Alyssahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06164287844038148131noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7712868816166519860.post-42516088415115894582013-08-09T06:03:00.003-07:002013-08-09T07:08:55.196-07:005Prepare yourselves. This is bound to get a bit cliche and mushy.<br />
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Today is our fifth wedding anniversary. All I feel is happy. Five years brings a lot of ups and downs with it, but finding your way to such a happiness after that time is something to be quite proud of, if you ask me.<br />
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I always shy away from those people who say their romantic partner is also their best friend. I cannot even pinpoint exactly what it is about this statement that rubbed me the wrong way. I think, perhaps, I was always afraid it would mean that one person is expected to fulfill such a large number of roles that there isn't any room left for other people and their individual influences. As I reflect on it now, though, I'm thinking that perhaps Phillip is, in fact, my best friend. He is the one I see daily, the one I am 100% comfortable with (marriage will do that to you!), the one who, even when many would prefer a lie, is <i>always</i> honest with me. He is the one who teaches me to think beyond what I have always known as "truth". He has shown me the value of adventure and living outside the norm. He has seen my tears, heard my cries. Phillip is the patient father to my beautiful child. His quiet has always intrigued me, but I never could have imagined the value it would have to my busy, loud self. From the beginning of 'Phillip and Alyssa' he has helped me to learn more about, and experience, the love and grace of God.<br />
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<span style="font-size: x-large;">Happy #5 to us.</span></div>
Alyssahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06164287844038148131noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7712868816166519860.post-74890575512720685032013-05-10T09:25:00.004-07:002014-05-09T06:52:18.955-07:00Eleanor June Jeanne'A little after 11PM on Tuesday April 30th I began feeling contractions. They were very tolerable, but they remained steady for several hours throughout the night. The contractions never increased in intensity, but after being awake all night with contractions I finally decided to call my midwife, Janis, at 4AM. Based on what I told her, Janis believed this was not real labor and that I should do all I could to try to relax and get some rest. She prescribed something to eat, a large drink of water, a glass of wine, and a long, warm bath. Although I was initially hesitant about the wine (hello, I'm pregnant), I followed her instructions and within about 30 minutes of being in the tub I was falling asleep so I headed to bed. I was scheduled to work 4 hours Wednesday morning (May 1-my due date!), but due to the up-all-night-contractions marathon I called in.<br />
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I was admittedly frustrated when I woke up later Wednesday morning to absolutely no contractions. I did hold onto some hope, though, because when I went to the bathroom I noticed bloody show. A sign that labor would be near! I had been so excited to potentially deliver my baby on my actual due date. May 1st just sounded so nice. The rest of the day went on contraction-free even after a long walk, eating a whole pineapple, and yet another walk. Also, I'll go ahead and admit it...I took castor oil. I went to bed knowing that this little one would arrive whenever he/she wanted. I anticipated it would probably be in the next couple days, but then again, who knows?<br />
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I woke up about a quarter after 1AM that night to go to the bathroom. As soon as I rose from the bed I felt a large amount of some sort of liquid coming on out! I rushed to the bathroom and remained there, on the toilet (awesome visual, I know), for a large amount of time partially due to pain and partially due to the aftermath of castor oil. I couldn't be sure, though, if the pain I was feeling, while pretty bad, where related to baby or just severe bowel cramping. While I wasn't sure at the time, I'm fairly certain now that the liquid was, in fact, my water breaking. After 45-60 minutes I could sense a pattern to the pain and began to realize I was, in fact, experiencing contractions. I knew these contractions were much different than the night before, so at about 2:15 I told Phillip to call Janis. Once I was on the phone with her she could also tell this was different due to the fact that I couldn't speak to her during contractions. After a bit of discussion she said she would be on her way in a little while.<br />
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After I got off the phone with Janis I called my mom (who, of course, was already awake at 2:30 in the morning) and Phill called his mom. I went downstairs where it was cooler and began walking around the living room, pausing every several minutes to grab onto the couch and moan during a contraction. My parents arrived shortly thereafter. My dad was having a hard time seeing me go through the pains of labor. Poor guy! I asked my mom to quickly put my hair into a french braid so it would be out of my way. After some time I decided it would probably be best to go back upstairs to our bedroom where the birthing tub was so I wouldn't wind up stuck downstairs with an inability to move due to severely strong contractions. I wanted to lie down and rest between contractions, but when I laid down on the bed I instantly found it to be uncomfortable. After one contraction lying on my side in bed, I knew I had to get up. I ended up sitting down on the floor next to the bed with my legs crossed and my back resting on the baby's pack 'n play. Somehow I found this comfortable. I'd been noticing that my back had been quite sore.<br />
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Janis arrived around 5AM and Tash came shortly after. Janis called her assistant and stated she should start heading in. I had never been checked for dilation or effacement during pregnancy and so, at about 6 o'clock I asked Janis if she would be checking me. She said it was up to me. I wanted to know and I was prepared for whatever she would tell me, knowing full well that many women expect that they are much farther progressed than what they really are. I estimated maybe 5cm; a solid halfway. Side note: it is NOT pleasant getting checked. When you're already struggling to find comfort and then you add that variable into the mix, you quickly realize it is painful, especially during a contraction. Once she was done, I looked at her with anticipation. She stared me right in the eyes and told me I only had a little bit of a rim left on one side. I was essentially 9.5 cm dilated. Stunned, I told her I loved her and began to feel quite proud. Janis told me she had texted her assistant prior to checking me stating she thought I was about 8cm judging by the way I was laboring.<br />
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Kari arrived within the 6 o'clock hour. Everyone became a little more focused on filling the birthing tub with warm water. Luckily, it didn't take long to get to just the right temperature and I was assisted into the tub. I was a little frustrated that the tub water couldn't be warmer, but 98 degrees is where it needed to be for the baby's sake. It did feel very nice to be able to move more freely due to the water. My contractions while in the water really started to take a toll, but not in the way I anticipated. My back hurt so bad. Although it was still very painful and I had begun to yell out quite a bit due to uterine and vaginal pain with the contractions, the sharp, severe back pain was taking all my attention. Kari, and then Tash, applied counter-pressure to my back while I knelt down in the tub water grasping tightly to Phillip's arms.<br />
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Phillip's mom arrived shortly after 7. My dad had gone to work, but he was going to be delayed in town so he was able to come back to the house. He waited either on the stairs or downstairs.<br />
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I knew that it must be near time to push so I asked Janis if that's what I needed to do. I didn't feel that urge that I'd heard so much about. I remember always hearing that women just feel an intense urge to push that they can't stop, but since I didn't feel that I wasn't really sure what I was supposed to be doing. Janis instructed me to try a couple pushes and see how it went. I had to really focus on the pushes. I was worried the pushes wouldn't be effective since I didn't feel an intense urge to push. Therefore, I felt I needed to push with all my might. Janis had her hands in place to feel if the baby was moving down with my pushes. She told me that with each push the baby was moving farther and farther down. <i>My baby was coming.</i> There was a moment where it really hit me what was about to happen. I can't remember exactly what I said, but I know there was a moment where I said something along the lines of, "My baby is coming", and it was like the first time I really recognized it to be fully true. I started to cry and others were crying as well. With the next contraction, though, I was pulled back into business. The last minutes of pushing are a bit of a blur full of encouragement from my family, friends, and midwife. They were instructing me to push, praising me for how I was doing, and exclaiming excitedly that they could see the baby! I really couldn't feel anything different than I had before, so (even though I hadn't planned to do so) I felt down for the baby. Feeling how close I was to meeting my baby gave me the final surge I needed to <i>really</i> bare down and puuuuush my baby out. With my hands in place down by my baby, I pushed with all my might and helped lift my baby out of the water. I immediately brought the baby to my chest, moved the cord away from his/her face and neck, checked for 10 fingers and toes, and finally checked the gender. Now, I had prefaced the whole labor stating that it was very important to me that Phill be the one to tell me whether Baby Oprie was a boy or a girl. I did not, however, anticipate catching my baby and being the one with the first access! I checked and was quite surprised to find that my brand new baby was a healthy little girl. I was a little surprised by how surprised I was. I think I was expecting a boy more than I originally realized! Eleanor June Jeanne' Oprie was born at 8:22AM on Thursday May 2, 2013.<br />
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Everyone was crying, but my dad took the cake with his sweet grandpa sobs. She came rather quickly with labor lasting 7 hours and only requiring pushing for 30 minutes. We waited for the cord to finish pulsating before cutting. Both Phillip and my mom did not want to cut the cord, so Janis did the honors. Janis' assistant, Elissa, took the baby while Janis helped me to deliver the placenta. Afterwards I was helped up to a chair where I was then able to nurse little Eleanor. Before nursing, they weighed Eleanor and took all of her measurements. She was a healthy 8 pounds 2 ounces and measured 20 and 3/4 inches long. After nursing I was helped to the bathroom and then back to bed so Janis could inspect me. Other than a labial tear (sorry if TMI) everything looked good. While Phillip held the baby I laid in bed and enjoyed the perfect post-delivery breakfast: pancakes from Johnny's. My dad pulled grandpa-of-the-year by bringing enough pancakes, hash browns, and cinnamon rolls to feed everyone present and still have leftovers. We may make it a May 2 tradition. :-)<br />
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The rest of the day was spent resting, nursing, and falling in love with our little one. It was hard for Phillip and I to wrap our brains around the day's happenings. Even now, 8 days later, it still seems pretty unbelievable that I'm a mother. In two days I'll be celebrating my first Mother's Day <i>as a real life mama</i>. Last Mother's Day was one of the worst days of my life, just days after my D&C. A year later...so much has changed. Now, there is celebrating. There is renewed hope. Eleanor is here and she is precious.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Just born</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Meeting Dad for the first time</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Happy Birthday!</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">She's absolutely perfect</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">2 Days Old</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">My favorite picture so far. 4 days old.</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">1 week old and growing like a weed!</td></tr>
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<br />Alyssahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06164287844038148131noreply@blogger.com10tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7712868816166519860.post-4181001025867130822013-03-19T07:05:00.001-07:002013-03-19T07:11:22.112-07:00UpturnLife has taken a turn for the better.<br />
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Stating this makes it sound like life was awful earlier, but honestly...it was pretty rough there for a bit. Since Friday, everything seems to have changed. My attitude is <i>positive</i>. My mood is <i>happy</i>. Work is going well for me back at Lutheran. Busy at times (but, honestly, what job isn't?), but generally great. I was told by two separate coworkers yesterday how happy each was that I came back to work with them. That really builds up the soul. Also, today is Phillip's first day of work at his new <a href="http://www.hsmetal.com/default.htm" target="_blank">job</a>. While this isn't exactly his dream job, we're both SO pleased for him to have a good, steady position with great hours (especially since baby time is just a few short weeks away!).<br />
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The biggest influencer on my upturn in life, though, is definitely credited to this past Saturday's happenings. Not only did I have a fantastic baby shower with family (including Mom O. from Ohio and the most loving and wonderful cousin, Leslie, who FLEW IN FROM NORTH CAROLINA JUST TO BE AT MY BABY SHOWER) in the afternoon where Little One received so many necessary and great gifts, but then I was able to celebrate dear Hillary's upcoming wedding at her bridal shower, and finally end the day with a very large, great, and all-around awesome gathering of the most loving friends imaginable. I didn't expect such a great turn out or so much food, so it was overwhelming in the best way possible! I just loved celebrating our baby and, while it's embarrassing being the only one opening so many gifts, I appreciate every item we were given so, so much. I feel much more prepared as a soon-to-be mother and I'm really getting so excited and anxious to meet my sweet baby!<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZxJMexWnxFACM524yfYXNffp8iu_WsY04pfWTeF7WYMpcvkev6rb2p96-GwxrcIP-mHMpZpuXbujhR1MsgaeG2z6jxIWzP2gkDWyO6DsQMMbO3WZR6Qii_RvaaRCdxTX548H5mSva4mek/s1600/94aefef88ea211e2999e22000a1f8afc_7.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZxJMexWnxFACM524yfYXNffp8iu_WsY04pfWTeF7WYMpcvkev6rb2p96-GwxrcIP-mHMpZpuXbujhR1MsgaeG2z6jxIWzP2gkDWyO6DsQMMbO3WZR6Qii_RvaaRCdxTX548H5mSva4mek/s1600/94aefef88ea211e2999e22000a1f8afc_7.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">From Kari's <a href="http://instagram.com/p/W8LhnxrWgc/" target="_blank">instagram</a></td></tr>
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<i>Thank you, Lord, for your blessings.</i></div>
Alyssahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06164287844038148131noreply@blogger.com13tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7712868816166519860.post-37445295766198207172013-02-12T21:55:00.001-07:002013-02-12T21:55:13.611-07:00Off AgainBecause this topic is still so fresh and saddening I figured I'd just leave a short and sweet blog post in an effort to reach everyone so I don't have to retell the story over and over.<br />
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Today I resigned from my job. It hurts because I still have a deep passion for obstetrics, but over the past week certain issues arose making it impossible for me to continue working in this position. I'm incredibly grateful to the coworkers and supervisors I only knew briefly due to my short time in this position. I know this is all pretty vague, but the details need not be shared.<br />
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Your prayers are appreciated and certainly welcomed as the future is so very uncertain for Phillip and I right now. This whole crazy situation is much more tolerable due to the love I've felt from friends and family.<br />
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<br />Alyssahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06164287844038148131noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7712868816166519860.post-76956447670028106692013-02-01T01:10:00.001-07:002013-03-19T07:17:32.052-07:00Baby BrainIt's normal to expect a pregnant woman to spend a lot of time thinking about her baby and spending a good amount of spare time preparing for when baby arrives. While I actually feel I have done essentially <i>nothing</i> to prepare for baby being here, in the past 24 hours I entered nonstop babydom.<br />
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I've spent the past several months looking for a home, finding our home, waiting to get in our home, moving into our home, and transforming our new home. While I can't, and certainly haven't meant to, ignore my growing baby it seems as though newborn preparation has taken a backseat to the house. I want to get the house ready for baby, though, right??? Phill finished sealing off the floors tonight and I am so in love. Now, though, he has the task of sanding and re-sealing the floors that were already exposed because they were previously stained and don't match the newly exposed flooring. Poor, amazing fella. Then, you know, we just might unpack the rest of our crap and settle in to this old place. While redoing the bathroom. Sheesh.<br />
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Now that a good chunk of progress has been made, my brain has shifted focus. Alyssa is in baby mode now. Plus, I have a job were I'm surrounded by brand new babies and their new mamas! B.A.B.I.E.S. everywhere. The job is going great. The transition to night shift has gone WAY smoother than I ever anticipated. So great that it's 2:54AM and I'm wide awake watching loads of birth videos on youtube. It's like crack to me. I'm a natural labor junky.<br />
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My delay in baby planning doesn't bother me...for the most part. I really believe that baby doesn't actually require a lot of tangible preparation. Baby doesn't need all of the stuff. If baby showed up today we'd be stunned off our assess, but we'd get along alright. However, it would have been nice if I had planned childbirth classes a little sooner. The classes I'm most interested in are several weeks long so they either have already started or start too late so that I wouldn't be able to complete them all before having the baby or the class schedule simply isn't compatible with my work schedule. I hate to sound cocky, especially since I recognize that there is so much about childbirth that I can't understand without first experiencing it, but I'm not sure how beneficial many childbirth classes would be for me. I feel I have a lot of clinical <i>and</i> practical knowledge regarding labor and childbirth. However, I really wanted some sort of clear information for Phill. I want him to be an active participant during the delivery, but I'm afraid that without some sort of "proper" education he may become overwhelmed or feel helpless. I've been researching and finding various helpful tidbits for <i>him</i> so he can help <i>me </i>during labor.<br />
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Plus, I still need to figure out childcare and find a pediatrician! I've looked up pediatricians covered with my insurance and I'm planning to call around tomorrow to at least check that item off my to-do list.<br />
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Did you see how quickly this post became a bit of a baby ramble? I did not anticipate that many words spewing out. Alyssahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06164287844038148131noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7712868816166519860.post-25043423569891120402013-01-23T20:43:00.001-07:002013-03-19T07:17:22.603-07:00Boy or Girl?Since Phillip and I aren't finding out the gender of this little baby, I thought it would be fun to hold a little poll to see what YOU think. Here's the most recent photo (from last week):<br />
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<iframe src="http://www.bloggeries.com/blog-polls/view/107050" style="border: 1px solid #000; height: 160px; overflow: auto; width: 100%;"></iframe>Alyssahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06164287844038148131noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7712868816166519860.post-37283512349845853142013-01-16T20:47:00.000-07:002013-01-16T20:48:08.435-07:00Catch UpI swear I never intend to write long, drawn-out posts, but then I inadvertently wait 24378924 years in between blog posts and I feel the need to catch you up on our recently rapid lives. I will do all in my power to keep it short and sweet.<br />
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What has changed since my last post? Here we go:<br />
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<li>Christmas with the families </li>
<li>We bought a house (eep!)</li>
<li>I quit my job</li>
<li>I started my new dream job</li>
<li>We went all crazygonuts painting/remodeling said new house</li>
<li>I got way larger</li>
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Big things! I can't wait to post pictures of this wonderful home once we get it to where we want it. We're mostly through with painting (so close!). Next, we tackle the full bath. Then, floors. Then, who knows. Phillip and I both comment frequently on how blessed we are that everything with this house has gone so smoothly. I truly love this place and it's so funny to think this is the home where I'll have my babies, have friends and family over for celebrations and just for fun, cook so many future meals, and simply live out our lives.<br />
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Now that I've been at my new job for a few weeks I suppose I can formally announce that I left my endoscopy position at Lutheran for a position in the Family Birthing Center at Marion General Hospital!<br />
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You guys. You guys, you guys, you guys. I've only been on the floor a few days, but I'm ecstatic to finally be in the position I've been pursuing for so long. Plus, better pay so...bring on the laboring ladies and their babies!<br />
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Finally, the bambino. I've mentioned several times how difficult it's been for me to stay positive during pregnancy. Yesterday was a monumental turning point. We hadn't originally planned to do any further ultrasounds, but after some discussion we decided to go ahead with a mid-pregnancy ultrasound. While ultrasounds terrify me since they can always find bad, this ultrasound was SO MUCH GOOD. They took a good look at literally every angle of our little one and (I have to try not to cry as I type this) <i>everything looks normal</i>. I saw a strong, pumping 4 chamber heart; a long, curved spine; 10 tiny fingers and 10 tiny toes; a 3 vessel cord, and, of course, a tiny baby face! Oh my word Oh my word I love this little baby so much. That ultrasound gave me so much more confidence in this pregnancy and the life of our baby. All of this still really doesn't see real, but I'm so much more excited now. Finally! I'm excited! I've been feeling completely fine physically, but I want nothing more than for this pregnancy to be over so I can hold and love on my child. Only a few more months! My little one is about 2 pounds now!<br />
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I'll try to post more frequently, but with inconsistent internet, a screwy computer, and lots going on in the work/home renovation department...no promises.Alyssahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06164287844038148131noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7712868816166519860.post-12156546997495690832012-12-18T19:20:00.000-07:002013-03-19T07:17:53.505-07:00Move It, Move It<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<span style="font-size: large;">20 Weeks Y'all!</span></div>
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We're a movin' and a groovin' over here. Baby is moving a lot and I. Am. Loving it! Feeling my little baby's powerful kicks and even SEEING my abdomen bounce with it is so completely reassuring. My midwife appointment this morning went great. Baby's heartbeat is 160, mama's feeling good, and we decided to go ahead and schedule a mid-pregnancy ultrasound. </div>
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Next thing to tackle: childcare. I'll be returning to work after baby arrives, so we're on the hunt for a truly great babysitter/daycare provider. I'm hoping it won't be a huge problem that I'm planning to cloth diaper my little one. So...any suggestions Huntington, IN folk???</div>
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Also...pediatrician?! Yikes.</div>
Alyssahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06164287844038148131noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7712868816166519860.post-16402249469824525582012-12-11T12:01:00.000-07:002013-03-19T07:17:13.117-07:00We're Halfway There<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<i>Whooooa livin' on a prayer!</i> Get it? Ok.</div>
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Yesterday, while leaving work, I unexpectedly found myself in tears behind the wheel. While being tired and hormonal had a hand in it all, the main culprit was gladness. </div>
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Tomorrow, I will be 20 weeks pregnant; halfway through pregnancy. I thought of this as I was leaving work and it was as if every thought and emotion I had felt (or suppressed) throughout this pregnancy came at me full force. I feel so, so, so, so, so, so, so, so blessed right now. This pregnancy, this baby, is such a gift. I had prayed, begged, cried to grow our family and the Lord granted us this wish. It's just amazing that my God feels I'm qualified to bring a little someone into His world. </div>
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Next, I'm disappointed. Because of the previous sadness I've had with pregnancy, and the little scares I've had even with this little one, I've found it incredibly difficult to enjoy this pregnancy. I want nothing more than to fully embrace this special time, but I simply can't seem to work past the innate uncertainty I'm holding onto. </div>
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I'm also terrified. I'm not terrified of the "normal" things, though. I'm not afraid of parenthood, and I'm actually really looking forward to labor (I'm sure there will be plenty of you who will make sure these words come back to haunt me). I'm terrified of the here and now. Pregnancy is frightening the shit out of me. I'm even more afraid now that I've finished with my progesterone injections. While my legs were achy bricks from those shots, they served as a bit of a lifeline; a way to feel like I was preventing bad things from happening. </div>
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As each week passes, though, I'm so very grateful. I'm grateful for health, I'm grateful for my husband who is present and can go to appointments with me, and I'm grateful for my mom who <i>really</i> wants to buy me maternity clothes. Beautiful people. Beautiful life.</div>
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<br />Alyssahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06164287844038148131noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7712868816166519860.post-12584203288430341452012-12-03T20:06:00.000-07:002012-12-18T19:21:59.938-07:00Hello Again<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEixTLxfj_0q9w8UaQynR5GWYD19x60NjdYcmm6Fi-sL0DKyNUQfR-D-CUrkYOeTSZcbQpf2TfJ_JVbSWno-JDr6PazHGVB20GTnaAUVjAivSPWgj5mb9ZuZW03WPcpT1k-TcyP5kCJ4uDLd/s1600/alyssaweek18.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEixTLxfj_0q9w8UaQynR5GWYD19x60NjdYcmm6Fi-sL0DKyNUQfR-D-CUrkYOeTSZcbQpf2TfJ_JVbSWno-JDr6PazHGVB20GTnaAUVjAivSPWgj5mb9ZuZW03WPcpT1k-TcyP5kCJ4uDLd/s640/alyssaweek18.jpg" width="480" /></a></div>
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Hello again! A few people have asked to see little baby's growing size, so here you are! Over the past two weeks or so I really feel like I'm starting to look <i>pregnant</i>. However, I mainly think I just look...big. My midwife informed me that I have a long torso (I've never considered this to be true before. Maybe?) so maybe that has something to do with why I don't think my body has that typical pregnant shape. Who knows. It could also be that I haven't even reached halfway in the pregnancy yet. </div>
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Other than growing a little human, waiting to hear about a new job prospect, purchasing our dream stroller set (it should be here soon!), and living with my parents, we have additional big news. We bought a house! Now, we're still in the closing process and waiting to get the official thumbs up from the bank regarding our loan, but our offer was accepted, the inspection is completed, and the seller has agreed to fix EVERYTHING we asked of them! If all goes smoothly, we should close December 21st. While there are several cosmetic changes we plan to make at some time or another, I am in love with this house. It's an old brick home built in 1900. I love it. I keep envisioning myself with my growing family living in this house over the years and it brings such a smile to my face.</div>
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Lately, Phillip and I have been researching furniture, countertops, flooring, decor, etc. I'm crazy excited about a little project that Phill has taken up. I mentioned the idea of building our own dining room table out of reclaimed wood and he really loved the idea! We were able to purchase wood from a local man who is going piece by piece through an old falling down barn. I think it's just so neat to 1) Support someone local through this little project, 2) Have something substantial that we (Phill) made, & 3) Have a piece of furniture with a known history. I really think it'll turn out beautifully!</div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><i>Have a great first full week of December!</i></span></div>
<br />Alyssahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06164287844038148131noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7712868816166519860.post-34088727801907784432012-11-11T20:05:00.000-07:002013-03-19T07:18:11.350-07:00SoonIt feels like a lot of change has taken place in this little life of mine lately. I moved out of my grandpa's house into my parent's house while we're still house searching. It sounds pretty awful thinking "I live with my parents", but it doesn't really feel that awful at all. I'm sure Phillip will have a slightly different feeling about it, though. <span style="font-family: Times,"Times New Roman",serif;">:-) </span><br />
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I've still been a bit on edge with little Baby O, too. My midwife informed me last week that while all the rest of my initial lab work results were normal, my <a href="http://www.livestrong.com/article/425401-pregnant-with-low-progesterone-levels/" target="_blank">progesterone is low</a>. I was given the choice to do nothing (as many practitioners do) or supplement the progesterone. Phill and I agreed that if there is an option of something we can do to correct this potential problem, we should do it. So, starting last Monday I'm now doing twice a week intramuscular (IM) injections at home. I'm glad I'm a nurse because, no offense, but I don't think the average person could handle the drawing up of the medication, switching needles, maintaining a clean technique, and actually <i>administering</i> the medication. It's not for the faint of heart. The worst part, though, is my incredibly sore thigh the next day (and the day after...)! If you see me out and about walking funny, it's likely because I'm one sore lady. It's all worth it, though, if it means we'll have a healthy newborn in the end.<br />
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It's hard to remain optimistic and think of an actual newborn being the end result of all this. I feel like it's been a lot of walking on eggshells, not knowing whether all is well. When I noticed the spotting, it scared me, but I didn't get too worked up because I knew it could very well be nothing. While the same could be possible with my low progesterone, it was a much harder blow because this was concrete evidence that something was not up to par. I told my mom and Phill that I was still hesitant to buy baby things while there still seems to be some uncertainty. I'm presently 15.5 weeks along, but I don't feel as confident in my pregnancy as I would have expected at this point.<br />
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The silver lining to this all is that my long lost husband is returning TOMORROW. I've been excited all day thinking about it, but just now typing it out I got a little emotional. He's been gone for <b>6 WEEKS YOU GUYS!</b> I'm not even sure what more to say other than I am so incredibly thankful to have him in my life and I'm so thankful he's returning to me tomorrow!<br />
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This is rather embarrassing, but I guess I forgot to mention that I had a birthday last Monday. Day one of the injections marked the 26th year of this old bird's life. I know 26 is certainly not old, but there's some chunk of my brain that screams "HOLY BEJESUS YOU IS OLD!". Meh. I'll get used to it, I'm sure.<br />
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Here's wishing you all a healthy and happy week before Thanksgiving!<br />
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<span style="font-size: x-small;"><i>**My ap<span style="font-size: x-small;">olog<span style="font-size: x-small;">i<span style="font-size: x-small;">es for the boring non-photo post. <span style="font-size: x-small;">Apparently my computer is so low on memory and storage space that I can't even upload one photo. <span style="font-size: x-small;">Either that (which is <span style="font-size: x-small;">still totally true) or my iPhoto is <span style="font-size: x-small;">screwy. Sorry!</span></span></span></span></span></span></span></i></span>Alyssahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06164287844038148131noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7712868816166519860.post-78612269907079344732012-10-31T18:00:00.001-07:002012-10-31T18:02:20.235-07:00Sugar, Sugar<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Circa 2006</td></tr>
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This has always been a favorite picture of the two of us. This is likely due to the legit smile from my now-husband. He's a reserved kind of guy. Strong emotions and Phill do not always go hand-in-hand. He's special. He's perfect for me. I miss him so badly and I <i>cannot wait</i> for him to return to me on November 12th!<br />
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I'm pretty sure I just entered the I-bought-Halloween-candy-just-for-me-and-now-I'm-feeling-the-effects sugar crash. Sorry baby. That was a bad idea.<br />
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Speaking of baby: This little one has given daddio and myself quite a scare. Saturday and then again this morning I had some bleeding/spotting that quickly lightened up. I never had any cramping and it cleared up pretty quickly, but when you see something like BLOOD after using the restroom whilst carrying precious cargo...you kiiiiiiinda freak out <strike>a lot</strike> a little. After it stopped Saturday, and after doing some online research, I came to the conclusion that all was well, but if it happened again I would do something. Then came today with a repeat of Saturday's events. I called my midwife and discussed some things. Ultimately, I was able to swing by her office after work and have a little listen to Baby O. on the doppler. Welp, this little one seems to be doing just fine. Healthy heartbeat, baby moving around, appropriate uterus size...I'm feeling much better knowing that baby is alive and kicking (literally!).<br />
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I say this to ask you all to continue to pray for Phillip, myself, and little baby (who, by the way, is the size of a lemon!). Phillip has been living vicariously through me with all this baby business, home searching business, and general OUR LIFE business. It'll feel so nice to be together again and to feel like we can function more smoothly <b>together</b>. <br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">HAPPY HALLOWEEN!</span></div>
Alyssahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06164287844038148131noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7712868816166519860.post-81048555363570747172012-10-15T17:47:00.000-07:002012-10-15T17:47:58.720-07:00Special Thanks + Crazy Pregnant Lady<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhB4AW8KTZITRsMt8vBisIiNwvC0C_i36t9MVIawD_TK8c_9d-zJjhgVdyxSuScAbO4z4BB9WR3ocxNP73CZRTxL0k2JG7F1NJLHs0bnH8xNea3y1UUjZVosBAsuCPG4-CkqBIC7dC6tW6H/s1600/IMG_1886.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhB4AW8KTZITRsMt8vBisIiNwvC0C_i36t9MVIawD_TK8c_9d-zJjhgVdyxSuScAbO4z4BB9WR3ocxNP73CZRTxL0k2JG7F1NJLHs0bnH8xNea3y1UUjZVosBAsuCPG4-CkqBIC7dC6tW6H/s640/IMG_1886.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">I love the number of dance parties that occur with this community of friends. Birthdays + wine (not me) + Gangnam style = best night ever</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The best smile I could muster after a bit of a crazy day. More on that later.</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Isn't Baby Oprie kinda cute already? This was for Phill since he's gone on tour. </td></tr>
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Most importantly, I need to say THANK YOU. Thank you all for your congratulations, your continued prayers, your hugs, and your "pregnant!" chants (you know who you are). It's a little strange having this little secret of ours out in the open now, but it's a breath of fresh air, as well. One place I had not spilled the beans was at work. I was planning on waiting it out another week or so (particularly because {surprise!} I had a job interview today in the Family Birthing Center at MGH and don't know what will become of that), but......then today happened.<br />
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I hadn't even been at work for an hour this morning when I had a hunger pang. I had already eaten breakfast before work so I decided to wait it out for a bit since it was still so early. I was standing at the nurse desk sorting paperwork when I started seeing a little bit of darkness. It was getting fuzzy and dark and I knew it was going to be bad. "Can someone get me a chair?", I asked slowly. Right away, I couldn't see anything but blackness and my coworkers and supervisor were helping me to sit in a chair. Thankfully, I was able to sit before fully fainting. Once I sat and started to recover, everyone was remarking that I was looking pale and I felt beads of sweat on my face. Then, I started feeling quite ridiculous once they helped me over to a bed, took my blood sugar and blood pressure, and everything was appearing to be fine. Since I told them I was hungry they assumed this all happened due to low blood sugar. They were baffled, too, when I told them it had never happened before. When I over heard my supervisor guessing whether I had ever had seizures, I figured it was time to come clean. I said that even though this had never happened before, I was pretty sure I knew <i>why</i> it happened. They all had questioning looks on their faces, which quickly turned to surprise and total understanding once I explained I was nearly 12 weeks pregnant. I felt fine (albeit ceaselessly hungry) the rest of the day.<br />
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I drove straight to Marion after work for my interview. It went alright and now I just have to wait a bit for a call to set up a peer interview. My day was additionally screwy, though, once I got back into town and nearly had a really bad accident because I was being stupid. I ran a red light. Accidental, but blatant. When I was approaching the light I saw the car ahead of me turn right, but I didn't pay attention to the fact that he had <b><i>stopped</i></b> first. So, without paying near enough attention I proceeded into the intersection only to panic when I saw a red light above me. I put on the brakes right as an oncoming car braked rapidly as they were heading right for me. We did make contact, but it was light and very minimal damage was suffered. The other driver said not to even worry about anything so we both simply went our separate ways, but I surely felt a bit shaken up and embarrassed.<br />
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Whew! I'm pretty exhausted now, but I have my sweats on, a full meal in my belly, my puppy beside me, and I'm about to indulge in some delicious peppermint ice cream. I think I'm survive just fine. Alyssahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06164287844038148131noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7712868816166519860.post-70077283497299536202012-10-13T08:39:00.000-07:002013-03-19T07:18:23.302-07:00Come What MAY<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Most days, now, I go about my daily life thinking of baby and work and homes and friends and whathaveyou. But at least once a day, I am astounded. At least once a day I pray to God, "Thank you so much for this little baby. Please let this baby grow healthy and strong. Please keep special watch over this baby, Lord."<br />
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While these are words I'm sure many people state in prayers while pregnant, I find that pregnancy after miscarriage is a funny (but not so funny) thing. Each day I wonder. As I type this I am 9 weeks 2 days pregnant and I am looking forward to that 12 week ultrasound with a fiery passion (technically only a 11w1d ultrasound). I yearn for the next few weeks to fly right by. Since you are reading this, apparently the ultrasound went well (Praise God!). Our first ultrasound of this pregnancy was amazing. As many of you know, my first ever ultrasound in May was <a href="http://lovelythingsinlife.blogspot.com/2012/05/when-sacred-is-torn-from-your-life.html" target="_blank">the worst day of my life</a>. Therefore, this time around I was as nervous as nervous gets. The difference was <i>this</i> special baby had a rapid, splendid heartbeat. Remembering that heartbeat flickering on the screen brings a smile to my face.<br />
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While I can't help but be a ball of nerves at times, I also have great hope. This baby is thriving inside my belly due to <b>love</b> and <b>prayer</b>. There were no hormones, medications, or ovulation tests. I'm finding it hard to describe just how blessed I feel knowing God has given us hope. Much can go wrong with pregnancy and childbirth, but for now, I'm focusing on the good. A new life has been created! This baby is wanted so badly I <i>almost</i> wish the next 30 or so weeks would hurry up and be over so I can meet our little one. Our prayers have been answered and I'll continue to pray to see that this little baby continues to grow into a healthy and strong child.<br />
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">**Special side note: A big THANK YOU is owed to all of you who have kept Phillip and I in your prayers throughout the past several months. So many people came out of the woodwork offering up prayers and support. It has truly blown me away and left me feeling beyond blessed. We've experienced so much up and down and I firmly believe that the thoughts and prayers of all of you have kept us strong and afloat. Thank you. Bless you.</span>Alyssahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06164287844038148131noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7712868816166519860.post-76762634250003934722012-10-10T18:24:00.000-07:002012-10-10T18:24:38.808-07:00So Much!<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i>Missing this boy </i></td></tr>
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You guys. Many of you are local so you get to keep up with the day to day life of the Oprie duo, but if you haven't been in the loop, I apologize (why do I <i>always</i> try to spell it appologize?!).<br />
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I'm not even sure where to begin really! How's this: I have a job! I'm a week and a half in and it's going great so far! I'm working in the endoscopy department at <a href="http://www.lutheranhospital.com/" target="_blank">Lutheran Hospital </a>in Ft. Wayne. It's way less stressful than working the floor. This...is an excellent thing.<br />
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Next news: Phillip is on the road! He's on tour with <a href="http://gungormusic.com/" target="_blank">Gungor</a> doing lights and various stage/tech work. He left Sunday September 30th and he'll be gone a total of 6 weeks. So, we're a week a half down. He's having a great time and he's gaining invaluable experience so I am MORE than okay to be missing him for the next few weeks. <br />
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Next up: We are house hunting and I don't like it. There was a house we were liking, but when I called the realtor he informed me that an accepted offer had already been put on the house. Loads of poop everywhere. Oh well. We'll keep looking. And by 'we' I mean me since Phill is gone.<br />
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Finally: Leaves are on the ground, chill is in the air, the heater is on, everyone has their Northface on, and I am starting to regret packing our coats in the storage unit. Fall is my friend.Alyssahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06164287844038148131noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7712868816166519860.post-8708217878184278932012-09-17T12:19:00.000-07:002012-09-17T12:19:21.730-07:00Apples and Autumn<br />
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On Saturday, Phill and I went with my mom and dad up to the Johnny Appleseed Festival in Ft. Wayne. I was super excited because I love festivals yet I had somehow managed to never go to the JAF (as it shall hence be known) before! My dad was SUPER excited, however, because his <a href="http://www.fortwaynescottish.org/" target="_blank">bagpipe gang</a> was playing. I love that my dad has this hobby. Also, did you <i>see</i> that dagger in the sock?! These guys (and gals) are pretty rad. I had apple cider and an apple dumpling with cinnamon ice cream so I was happy. Phill had homemade root beer. We all enjoyed the beautiful transition weather.<br />
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Autumn is so beautiful, right?Alyssahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06164287844038148131noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7712868816166519860.post-80778883678800510472012-08-27T11:59:00.001-07:002012-08-27T12:04:35.879-07:00Run Like the Wind<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Ok, so I'm definitely not running like the wind, but I'm sure as hell running! I've been exercising regularly since we moved to Arizona, but most of that activity was on the eliptical in the gym of our apartment complex. When we moved back, I had no eliptical. Therefore, I took to the streets. I was running about 3-3.5 miles regularly, once a week running with an awesome running group from <a href="http://509community.com/" target="_blank">the 509</a>. It was suggested that maybe some of us from the 509 running club could run a half-marathon in the near future. While I <strike>am</strike> was intimidated out of my mind, apparently I've committed to this thing. While it's not set in stone, it looks like this may all be going down around Halloween. This actually means I can cool my jets a bit! I'm so, so, so, so impressed with this body of mine. Whenever I heard of someone running long distances like that, it <i>literally</i> seemed impossible. Crazy hooligans.<br />
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But here I am. This body that God has provided me is capable of some pretty incredible things. I set out on my long run of the week last night and decided to push myself further than before and go ahead and run a full 10 miles. <b>10 miles.</b> It's one of those things where I was already planning on 9, and I felt pretty great, so I decided to add a bit more to increase my mileage. <b>WHO AM I?! </b><br />
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My self-confidence is boosted. I mean, those endorphin things are real. If anyone wants to go for a run, I'm game. Just know that I'm not speedy. I just go.<br />
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">**Side note: It's been a week and the blisters are healing up nicely! </span>Alyssahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06164287844038148131noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7712868816166519860.post-70932730520031425782012-08-24T11:14:00.000-07:002012-08-24T11:14:38.712-07:00August<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<span style="font-size: x-small;"><i>Some lively iPhone photos with my family from my amazing mama's 5 year work anniversary party. Congratulations Coach House Day Spa staff!</i></span></div>
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Life has been a little quirky lately. The big answer: we're both still job searching. We spent last week with my dear Tash and her new HUSBAND Jon (is this real life?!) in Nashville. I'd never been, so it was pretty exciting to be introduced to a new city. We've considered Nashville as a possible/potential/not-sure-if-I-can-really-handle-it place to live. Phill would likely have more opportunities in the tech/media/production job industry, we'd have some established friends in the area already, and we're only 6 hours from family. My first choice is to stay in the Huntington/Ft. Wayne area, but I know I shouldn't shelter our possibilities like that. </div>
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So guess what? I actually have a job interview next Wednesday at <a href="http://tristarcentennial.com/" target="_blank">Centennial Medical Center</a> in Nashville! At this point I'm more nervous and confused than excited. It's exciting to have someone finally seek me out, but I'm just not completely sold yet. I was told that Centennial (like so many other butthead facilities) require 1 year of OB experience in order to work in their OB department, so I can't be considered for any of those positions. GIVE ME THE EXPERIENCE! Anyway, I'm interviewing for a post-op women's floor but over the phone I was told they also do post-op eye and bariatric. I don't know about all that, but I'll have the opportunity to answer all my questions at the interview. I feel that if they offer me a position I'm really in no present situation to turn it down. We wouldn't even have to move all our stuff down if we're concerned we won't love it. If we would take the risk and not love it, who says we have to stay, yaknowwhatimean? </div>
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Beside all of that craziness, Phillip and I are both really looking forward to spending Labor Day weekend with my big ol' Carmien side of the family at the family cottage in <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bay_View,_Michigan" target="_blank">Bay View</a>. Everyone in the above photos plus SO MANY more will be there. For the first time in a long time everyone will be there! It'll be crowded and amazing. The cottage is for sleeping, garage sales, games, food, <a href="https://www.kilwins.com/petoskey" target="_blank">Kilwin's</a>, & bike rides. We'll be in the car a lot next week, but it'll be worth it.</div>
Alyssahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06164287844038148131noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7712868816166519860.post-36751388108212346722012-08-10T09:19:00.000-07:002012-08-10T09:19:20.692-07:00#4<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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We celebrated our fourth wedding anniversary yesterday.<br />
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It didn't start so great with a literal wake up call from the hospital stating I was not selected for the job I had been interviewing for. While it really, really stinks, I kinda already knew in my gut. <br />
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It went up from there, though, with a trip to the <a href="http://www.imamuseum.org/" target="_blank">IMA</a>, dinner at <a href="http://www.3sisterscafein.com/" target="_blank">3 Sisters</a>, a little stop at <a href="http://www.rei.com/" target="_blank">REI</a>, ice cream sundaes at <a href="http://www.ivanhoes.info/" target="_blank">Ivanhoe's</a>, and a storm to close out the night. <br />
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I love him so much. He's always been there for me and I know, with absolute certainty, that he'll continue to be here forever. He even told me last night. :-)Alyssahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06164287844038148131noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7712868816166519860.post-13124661338906141732012-08-04T11:17:00.000-07:002012-08-05T19:51:38.743-07:00Fresh<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Life has been more of the same lately. Phillip and I have done a lot of Olympics watching. On the job front...ugh. Phillip doesn't have much to share. I have been growing ever impatient with Parkview since they STILL have not contacted me to tell me yea or nay on the job I interviewed for. I called the Birthing Center supervisor the week after my peer interview, but had to leave a voicemail and did not receive a call back. So I waited more. Then, on Thursday, I called HR. I spoke to a very nice man who said he knew there had been job availabilities so he asked for my phone number, said he would talk to the supervisor, and then get back with me. Today is Saturday. He hasn't gotten back with me. So? I guess I'm going to call again on Monday. I mean, come on guys! I want to work for you so badly! Don't you think you should hire me for my passion alone?!</div>
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Aside from those frustrations, we've been enjoying more community time, family, friendships. Oh and MY DEAREST FRIEND GOT MARRIED LAST WEEK! Pictures are all over Facebook and my Instagram so you can check those out.</div>
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Well wishes are appreciated! Have a happy weekend! </div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">**As you can see, I not only changed this little blog's layout and design, but I changed the title, too. I actually kinda hated the old one. Long, unoriginal, dumb. For ease of transition, though, I did keep the same URL. Whatevs. </span></div>
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<br />Alyssahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06164287844038148131noreply@blogger.com3