Zach/ First 6 Weeks
Whenever I See
... your smiling face, I have to smile myself because I love you! Yes I do!!
Zach is still growing insanely fast! Where have our six weeks gone?! We're still stuffing him in to a few newborn clothes... but that probably has to stop. We need to put his first set of clothes away (sniff. sniff.).
We have obviously kept you up to date on a daily basis. He spends lots of time hanging in his swing with me while I cook and clean the kitchen. We dance and sing a lot too. Sometimes Mommy dances for him while he sleeps. Dad caught her doing that last night! Ooops!
Saturday night (or was it Sunday?), was H - E - "double hockey sticks"! We were trying to work things out in his crib. He wasn't having it. Or so I thought. Maybe I just felt that every peep needed to be addressed like it had when he was by my side. The last few nights have been amazing!!
Last night he ate and was down by 10pm. I heard him start to fuss at 1am. Normally I would say, okay it has been 3-4 hours... but I was too tired and he wasn't crying- just chatting. I fell back asleep until he did the same thing around 3am. Again, he wasn't crying- but I got up to feed him anyway. I love getting up to see him- way better than pulling him into my arms while I am half asleep in bed.
We're also really enjoying our unseasonably warm March!! A walk is in order every day! He can get some fresh air and experience the great outdoors while I work on that nice bunch of skin on my midsection! It also is a time for me to think out loud about anything else on my mind... he's a good listener :)
And he is definitely losing his hair. Business in the front, party in the back for sure ;-)
You know I would have filmed all day to catch that face!
2012-03-15 Date Night
Saturday was the first weekend night that we have spent as our own family unit. It could not have been more perfect.
The gorgeous weather tickled our grilling bone. Tony grilled the most fabulous steaks I have had in a long time- right along side some red sweet peppers (delicious!). In the kitchen, Zach and I made sweet potato casserole and garlic bread. We popped open a bottle of wine and enjoyed the deck door open with soothing music on in the background as the sun set behind our house.
it's not hard to eat and hold the babe :)
Then Tony and I whipped out IOWAOPOLY- a Monopoly game based on the University of Iowa. I learned my moves from Tony, and he must be a good teacher because I kicked his butt! It was such a rewarding and relaxing night. It was how we spent most every night in KC (except we had to go to our pool to grill- boohoo, I know) and how we spent many nights last spring and summer. The only difference was enjoying it with our little man, but he was such a good babe on Saturday that we didn't mind taking breaks to cuddle and/or feed him. :)
Tony working and Zach hanging out while I cook dinner
Hawkeye slippers!!
Swinging in the kitchen by the deck doors- all the sun flowing in!!
Spring training shirt??
Tony and Zach sharing something
The video is almost 2 minutes long... but he has some coos near the end!
2012-03-15 FIVE WEEKS 3/8/12
I was smart today and took them while he slept....
Uh-oh... stretching... the beast is waking...
This was after lots of tummy-time workouts! Whew! That gets exhausting!!
Hangin with Dad is just what he needed!!
We put the iPod in and have some serious jam sessions!! Sunglasses necessary.
Uh-oh!! Someone heard noise coming from behind and tried to figure out what it was! He immediately turned around once Dad walked in the room and told him he couldn't watch TV.
Zach got to experience the political process for the first time today! Our polling place just changed from the local high school to a church about five blocks away. Today was insanely gorgeous (maybe reaching 70!) so we went on a long walk and stopped in to the church to vote!
What was on the ballot? A sales tax for the next 10 years that will go towards flood protection for the west side of CR. We voted yes... let's hope that in 10 years we'll have something to show for it!
2012-03-05 One Month! Zach turned a month old this week! (Thursday if you count by weeks, Friday if you count by the date).
This week we noticed Zach grew A TON! On Monday or Tuesday morning, Tony came home and said, "Zach! You grew today!" Everyone else could not agree more! Each family member Zach saw this weekend commented on how his little cheeks are filling out, how he is looking more like a baby, and how long he continues to be!
We know he is growing because early last week he was eating every 2 hours one day... later in the week he was going longer and sleeping more during the day as well. Wake up- stretch- eat- stretch- back to sleep. The last few days he has gone a bit longer without a feeding! We had a night where we went 5 hours and then 4 hours- I don't think I eve felt so refreshed! ;-) Last night he did 3.5 hours and one feeding/changing lasted only 20 minutes! Goodnight!!
He is doing great in his pack and play as well. Last night he was wide awake when I plopped in him, not a peep came from the guy! Of course, he peeps when he spits his pacifier out, but that is an easy fix! (Though I'd appreciate it if he could coordinate those arms and hands to find it and plop it back in himself!).
We have been out of newborn diapers for a couple weeks... but we have had a few blowouts in the size 1 diapers as well- this kid has a fabulous digestive system! :)
We have also moved mostly out of newborn clothes and into size 0-3 month. This is nice because his wardrobe has increased considerably! My favorite clothes on him are onesies and pants- he looks like a little man! He looks great in navy blue. I also like the plain white t look (he's wearing a white onesie and yellow pants right now, I could eat him up!!).
He still really likes his swing. That is our go-to! He watched where it connects... could we have a future engineer on our hands?! He also stares at the ceiling fan a lot... even when we have him upright, he is always checking it out. He is also moving his arms and legs like crazy! He likes to jump off on his feet- basically crawling up our bodies or moving to a standing positions when we're holding him out. His head/neck is so strong! He is such an active little man!!
We are so in love with him!
What was on the ballot? A sales tax for the next 10 years that will go towards flood protection for the west side of CR. We voted yes... let's hope that in 10 years we'll have something to show for it!
2012-03-05 One Month! Zach turned a month old this week! (Thursday if you count by weeks, Friday if you count by the date).
(he was just chatting here, not crying!)
This week we noticed Zach grew A TON! On Monday or Tuesday morning, Tony came home and said, "Zach! You grew today!" Everyone else could not agree more! Each family member Zach saw this weekend commented on how his little cheeks are filling out, how he is looking more like a baby, and how long he continues to be!
(totally crying in this one, but he's cute when he cries!)
We know he is growing because early last week he was eating every 2 hours one day... later in the week he was going longer and sleeping more during the day as well. Wake up- stretch- eat- stretch- back to sleep. The last few days he has gone a bit longer without a feeding! We had a night where we went 5 hours and then 4 hours- I don't think I eve felt so refreshed! ;-) Last night he did 3.5 hours and one feeding/changing lasted only 20 minutes! Goodnight!!
He is doing great in his pack and play as well. Last night he was wide awake when I plopped in him, not a peep came from the guy! Of course, he peeps when he spits his pacifier out, but that is an easy fix! (Though I'd appreciate it if he could coordinate those arms and hands to find it and plop it back in himself!).
We have been out of newborn diapers for a couple weeks... but we have had a few blowouts in the size 1 diapers as well- this kid has a fabulous digestive system! :)
We have also moved mostly out of newborn clothes and into size 0-3 month. This is nice because his wardrobe has increased considerably! My favorite clothes on him are onesies and pants- he looks like a little man! He looks great in navy blue. I also like the plain white t look (he's wearing a white onesie and yellow pants right now, I could eat him up!!).
He still really likes his swing. That is our go-to! He watched where it connects... could we have a future engineer on our hands?! He also stares at the ceiling fan a lot... even when we have him upright, he is always checking it out. He is also moving his arms and legs like crazy! He likes to jump off on his feet- basically crawling up our bodies or moving to a standing positions when we're holding him out. His head/neck is so strong! He is such an active little man!!
We are so in love with him!
2012-03-05 Room (For Now)
I want to get a quote on the wall above your crib, and I have a large bulletin board I want to cover with fabric and hang on the opposite wall. Here it is now...
You're is sleeping in our room still. It is mostly just a holding room for clothes and toys :) ...we have started taking little naps in there, however! :)
You're is sleeping in our room still. It is mostly just a holding room for clothes and toys :) ...we have started taking little naps in there, however! :)
2012-03-01 Our First Walk
Your Mom never gets any work done because she rocks you to nap time and just loves to snuggle up and cuddle with you through the whole thing.
You don't even know how wonderful your little faces are (even when you furrow your brows like your Momma!), the little coos, the smiles you make, and of course your sweet baby smell- complete with a little smell of vom.
You're wonderful, my sweet baby Z! Absolutely wonderful.
Your Mom never gets any work done because she rocks you to nap time and just loves to snuggle up and cuddle with you through the whole thing.
You don't even know how wonderful your little faces are (even when you furrow your brows like your Momma!), the little coos, the smiles you make, and of course your sweet baby smell- complete with a little smell of vom.
You're wonderful, my sweet baby Z! Absolutely wonderful.
2012-03-01 Tummy Time!!
2012-02-28 Our Family
2012-03-01 Little Moments
2012-03-01 Zachary Lee
Zach,
It took us a while to come up with your name. In fact, you were only going to be a Zach for the last 6 weeks or so. Before that, your Dad and I had a lot of trouble coming up with and agreeing on a name. Let's start from the beginning... all the thinking.
First, I have had an account on BabyNames.com for a very, very long time. I (as a girl) have been dreaming of naming my children for as long as I can remember (dolls, Barbies, I even had a document where I made up names, personalities, etc for each one of my children- there were 5). I had my favorite list of names all ready to go. Your Dad, however, was not too thrilled about any of the names.
When we first found out about you, we talked names all the time. Then we realized that we had some time to think about it and put it on the back burner. People would ask and I would always respond, "we haven't really talked about it, we have time." This also bought us time because we didn't want to share your name! Just think if we had told people your name early on- (it wasn't your name!)
Early contenders:
Andrew (after my grandpa)
Delmer (after your Dad's grandpa- until family laughed at the name)
Charleston (your Dad really liked this one)
Leo (I don't know if your Dad considered it a contender, but I liked it!)
Jaxon (we love Jackson, but we can't have a Jack Schutt!)
...and if you were a girl, we're not telling- we want to use it for a sister (??)
You were Jaxon for a while. We even shook on it- we got it, we're done. But... we had to keep thinking, it just wasn't right.
Anytime we were watching TV or aimlessly doing nothing- we would throw a name to each other and see how it picked up. I think Zachary was tossed into the air early on, but not really picked up. It was tossed out again before Christmas time and we both felt that it was a good, strong, boy name. It had enough edge, but was still a recognizable name. It matched with Lee (a family tradition) and matched with Schutt. It was a long name that came with a short version. Perfect. We didn't discuss it, but we called you Zach sometimes (we didn't know if you were a boy or girl!). We didn't tell anyone (besides the lady in the airport, and she liked it!).
We didn't think about all the people we knew named Zach. A student, Uncle Max's friends, Zach Brown Band, Zach McCabe for Iowa basketball, Zach Johnson the golfer, etc, etc. If we did, we wouldn't think of you and it wouldn't your name... it'd be their name. That is why we don't tell people!!!
Zachary, what does your name mean? "The Lord remembers"
In 2010 it was ranked 61 for boy names.
We think it is perfect. You're our baby Zach, Z, Z-man... and I am sure the nicknames will be endless.
Love you, baby Z
I wanted to show you what we love to do when you're awake. Aside from watching you observe the world, we love watching you lift your head and show us how strong you are! You are doing such a great job of lifting and turning now as well!!
2012-03-01 Little Moments
We love watching you watch the world around you. When you're awake, we just stare at you stare at everything else.
...and don't worry about the end, you were fine :)
It took us a while to come up with your name. In fact, you were only going to be a Zach for the last 6 weeks or so. Before that, your Dad and I had a lot of trouble coming up with and agreeing on a name. Let's start from the beginning... all the thinking.
First, I have had an account on BabyNames.com for a very, very long time. I (as a girl) have been dreaming of naming my children for as long as I can remember (dolls, Barbies, I even had a document where I made up names, personalities, etc for each one of my children- there were 5). I had my favorite list of names all ready to go. Your Dad, however, was not too thrilled about any of the names.
When we first found out about you, we talked names all the time. Then we realized that we had some time to think about it and put it on the back burner. People would ask and I would always respond, "we haven't really talked about it, we have time." This also bought us time because we didn't want to share your name! Just think if we had told people your name early on- (it wasn't your name!)
Early contenders:
Andrew (after my grandpa)
Delmer (after your Dad's grandpa- until family laughed at the name)
Charleston (your Dad really liked this one)
Leo (I don't know if your Dad considered it a contender, but I liked it!)
Jaxon (we love Jackson, but we can't have a Jack Schutt!)
...and if you were a girl, we're not telling- we want to use it for a sister (??)
You were Jaxon for a while. We even shook on it- we got it, we're done. But... we had to keep thinking, it just wasn't right.
Anytime we were watching TV or aimlessly doing nothing- we would throw a name to each other and see how it picked up. I think Zachary was tossed into the air early on, but not really picked up. It was tossed out again before Christmas time and we both felt that it was a good, strong, boy name. It had enough edge, but was still a recognizable name. It matched with Lee (a family tradition) and matched with Schutt. It was a long name that came with a short version. Perfect. We didn't discuss it, but we called you Zach sometimes (we didn't know if you were a boy or girl!). We didn't tell anyone (besides the lady in the airport, and she liked it!).
We didn't think about all the people we knew named Zach. A student, Uncle Max's friends, Zach Brown Band, Zach McCabe for Iowa basketball, Zach Johnson the golfer, etc, etc. If we did, we wouldn't think of you and it wouldn't your name... it'd be their name. That is why we don't tell people!!!
Zachary, what does your name mean? "The Lord remembers"
In 2010 it was ranked 61 for boy names.
We think it is perfect. You're our baby Zach, Z, Z-man... and I am sure the nicknames will be endless.
Love you, baby Z
2012-03-01 Dad is Home!
Yesterday (Thursday) Dad surprised us at lunch time! He decided there were too many tax people in the office and thought coming home to work would be a good idea...plus it was snowing and the roads were going to start getting bad.
He stole a lot of baby Zach kisses!!
That night you stayed with GGSchutt while we watched the Hawkeyes beat Wisconsin (ranked team) again this season!! Carver Hawkeye was PACKED! It was a good thing that you stayed home... plus mommy could stand and cheer when Basabe made dunks, or Gatens threw some threes down! When we got home, Daddy fed you a full bottle! He was so excited to finally feed you!!
Today all the schools had a two hour delay. Dad stayed in bed until 7 (when you woke up) and went to shovel... then he decided to stay and work from home again. You have been SO good today- not as whiney as yesterday...
We keep sneaking in to say hello and bring Dad treats!! He likes seeing you during the day and grabs you out of my arms.... Dad likes spending his lunch time with you rather than his coworkers :) His favorite is putting you on his chest and watching you lift your strong neck! You also kick your feet and crawl up to Dad's neck. He laughs so hard!!
2012-03-01 Three Weeks! Sweet baby boy is now three weeks old. Where has the time gone?!
Highlights from this week:
Babysitters: Grandma and Grandpa (and Alex) babysat during two Iowa basketball games!
Sleeping: We're getting unfussy 3-4 hours from him now!! He is in the pack n play and doing great!
Activity: He is up much more often during the day, he has a crazy strong neck and loves moving around. This morning he responded to Tony and then followed him as Tony walked out of the room (moving his head to do so)
Size: He is definitely growing! We have moved to size 1 diapers and have begun working our way in to 0-3 month clothing
Out and About: We went to my school last Friday to watch a children's play and again on Wednesday afternoon to meet with the associate principal for a possible summer academy- he got lots of lovin!
...and I think he really smiled at me this week. He was looking at me, I was talking, he wasn't half asleep, and he smiled his huge smile! Love it! He is also smiling a lot more in his sleep.
Likes: swing (not vibrate!), pacifier, walking around, being upright in your arms, baby carrier when he go shopping, car rides
Dislikes: ....diaper changes are much, much better! and he didn't cry during the photo shoot (but we cut this one short and only got a couple shots)!! :)
He stole a lot of baby Zach kisses!!
That night you stayed with GGSchutt while we watched the Hawkeyes beat Wisconsin (ranked team) again this season!! Carver Hawkeye was PACKED! It was a good thing that you stayed home... plus mommy could stand and cheer when Basabe made dunks, or Gatens threw some threes down! When we got home, Daddy fed you a full bottle! He was so excited to finally feed you!!
Today all the schools had a two hour delay. Dad stayed in bed until 7 (when you woke up) and went to shovel... then he decided to stay and work from home again. You have been SO good today- not as whiney as yesterday...
We keep sneaking in to say hello and bring Dad treats!! He likes seeing you during the day and grabs you out of my arms.... Dad likes spending his lunch time with you rather than his coworkers :) His favorite is putting you on his chest and watching you lift your strong neck! You also kick your feet and crawl up to Dad's neck. He laughs so hard!!
2012-03-01 Three Weeks! Sweet baby boy is now three weeks old. Where has the time gone?!
Highlights from this week:
Babysitters: Grandma and Grandpa (and Alex) babysat during two Iowa basketball games!
Sleeping: We're getting unfussy 3-4 hours from him now!! He is in the pack n play and doing great!
Activity: He is up much more often during the day, he has a crazy strong neck and loves moving around. This morning he responded to Tony and then followed him as Tony walked out of the room (moving his head to do so)
Size: He is definitely growing! We have moved to size 1 diapers and have begun working our way in to 0-3 month clothing
Out and About: We went to my school last Friday to watch a children's play and again on Wednesday afternoon to meet with the associate principal for a possible summer academy- he got lots of lovin!
...and I think he really smiled at me this week. He was looking at me, I was talking, he wasn't half asleep, and he smiled his huge smile! Love it! He is also smiling a lot more in his sleep.
Likes: swing (not vibrate!), pacifier, walking around, being upright in your arms, baby carrier when he go shopping, car rides
Dislikes: ....diaper changes are much, much better! and he didn't cry during the photo shoot (but we cut this one short and only got a couple shots)!! :)
2012-03-01 Sleep Tight!!
Zach, we have been doing some crazy things to sleep with you!
Week 1: In recliner then moving to the couch
Week 2: In bed next to Mom (doctor said NO!)
Week 3: In pack n play next to bed
The pack n play was not working early on... but I think we have the hang of it. Mom finally realized that you might be a little chilly and that is why you weren't sleeping very well. You would also move like a madman. You'd start parallel to me and I would wake up to find you perpendicular! Who knew infants could move?!
We have it figured out (I hope!). You're swaddled nice and tight and then tucked in to a blanket. Warm, cozy, and all tight against yourself. Last night you went 3.5-4 hours without needing a feeding! Dad woke up and told you that you did an excellent job!
We're so proud of you!!
Now keep up the good work- we always said we wanted a sleeper!! :)
Week 1: In recliner then moving to the couch
Week 2: In bed next to Mom (doctor said NO!)
Week 3: In pack n play next to bed
The pack n play was not working early on... but I think we have the hang of it. Mom finally realized that you might be a little chilly and that is why you weren't sleeping very well. You would also move like a madman. You'd start parallel to me and I would wake up to find you perpendicular! Who knew infants could move?!
We have it figured out (I hope!). You're swaddled nice and tight and then tucked in to a blanket. Warm, cozy, and all tight against yourself. Last night you went 3.5-4 hours without needing a feeding! Dad woke up and told you that you did an excellent job!
We're so proud of you!!
(taken 2/15/12)
2012-03-01 Babysitters!
On Sunday, February 19, 2012, Zach was taken to Grandma and Grandpa Schutt's house for the evening while Mom and Dad went to the Iowa basketball game.
I was worried all week about having my sweet boy out of my arms and sight. I mean Zach was only 17 days old!
I had nothing to worry about. We brought Zach over at 4:00. He was sound asleep from the ride to Iowa City. At 5:30-6:00ish I texted Grandma Stephanie to see how he was, he had just woken up and was eating. Perfect boy.
We came back for our little man around 7:30 and he was sound asleep in his Uncle Alex's arms. This gave Tony and I a chance to eat some of their leftover dinner before bringing our sweet boy home.
All in all, it was a success! Very easy for Tony and I- but I'm not ready to keep handing him off just yet :)
He is just too cute to have to share all the time!!! ...and he's growing way too quickly!!
2012-03-01 2 Weeks!
This week we lost his umbilical cord and he has grown a little more whiney (but the pacifier works!). He has become much more interested in books we read and has continued to do a great job working on those neck muscles!
The doctor was not happy about Zach sleeping in bed with Mom and Dad, so we pulled the pack n play right up next to the bed, and I spent the whole night popping the pacifier back in his mouth when we woke up. I missed cuddling with my little boy, but I think this will be a system that can work. (shhh we slept together that last few hours....) :)
After two weeks, I am feeling better- probably pushing my limits a little too much- I had some abdominal pain last night. My incision is looking good- there is still glue stuck to my skin that I am too scared to scratch off. Emotionally, I couldn't be better! Though I cried one day staring at Zach, and I cried when his birth certificate came... those were all tears of joy and tears of, "I can't believe this!"
Though it definitely takes thinking to do anything (feed, shower, get dressed, feed.. then we can go to the dr, church, or the grocery store)... Tony and I don't feel like our world has been turned upside down yet. Zach is fitting perfectly into our life!!
I was worried all week about having my sweet boy out of my arms and sight. I mean Zach was only 17 days old!
I had nothing to worry about. We brought Zach over at 4:00. He was sound asleep from the ride to Iowa City. At 5:30-6:00ish I texted Grandma Stephanie to see how he was, he had just woken up and was eating. Perfect boy.
*picture taken the previous week*
We came back for our little man around 7:30 and he was sound asleep in his Uncle Alex's arms. This gave Tony and I a chance to eat some of their leftover dinner before bringing our sweet boy home.
All in all, it was a success! Very easy for Tony and I- but I'm not ready to keep handing him off just yet :)
He is just too cute to have to share all the time!!! ...and he's growing way too quickly!!
2012-03-01 2 Weeks!
original post Feb 17, 2012
Our sweet baby boy turned two weeks old yesterday (Feb 16).
We had our first appointment with the pediatrician. Zach is now 8.13lbs and 21 1/4 inches long. The doctor was really pleased with the appointment! Zach is heavier than 50% of his counterparts and taller than 75%. Pretty average- we'll take it! But let's get some meat on this kid so he's not such a string bean!! ;-)
With two weeks comes another photo shoot that Zach was not happy about...
As you can see, the pacifier tends to heal all in Zach's world.
This week we lost his umbilical cord and he has grown a little more whiney (but the pacifier works!). He has become much more interested in books we read and has continued to do a great job working on those neck muscles!
The doctor was not happy about Zach sleeping in bed with Mom and Dad, so we pulled the pack n play right up next to the bed, and I spent the whole night popping the pacifier back in his mouth when we woke up. I missed cuddling with my little boy, but I think this will be a system that can work. (shhh we slept together that last few hours....) :)
After two weeks, I am feeling better- probably pushing my limits a little too much- I had some abdominal pain last night. My incision is looking good- there is still glue stuck to my skin that I am too scared to scratch off. Emotionally, I couldn't be better! Though I cried one day staring at Zach, and I cried when his birth certificate came... those were all tears of joy and tears of, "I can't believe this!"
Though it definitely takes thinking to do anything (feed, shower, get dressed, feed.. then we can go to the dr, church, or the grocery store)... Tony and I don't feel like our world has been turned upside down yet. Zach is fitting perfectly into our life!!
2012-03-01 Hiccups!
2012-03-01 First Weekend
2012-03-01 One Week
(cue music to Barenaked Ladies' song "One Week")
What can you tell about a newborn's likes and dislikes??
Likes: watching Daddy, cluster feeding (working on this one with the pacifier... seems to be working!!), laying on Mom's chest, being held on Dad's arms, starting to like the swing- becoming very interested in it, and sleeping.
2012-03-01 Day 3 at Home...
original post date Feb 6, 2012
Today was a great day! We spent the first couple days at home catching up on laundry and figuring out how to handle Zach at home.
Yesterday we said to heck with it all- he's our babe and we're not going to stress about his sleeping. It's okay of Momma and Zach sleep together in the recliner or on the couch (in my arms in the recliner, totally safe- I sleep on the outside of the the chaise lounge so he is extra safe here... don't worry). Yesterday we relaxed.
Today we got up and got moving!! We had the motor in our furnace replaced this morning. It had been making a really loud humming noise since we moved in (probably should have gotten in checked out before the move in!). It is quiet, it blows harder, and it cost me my new camera this month :( That's okay. I have a working camera- and I'd rather spend the money towards necessities and paying the car off (he has me brainwashed!).
While Tony was downstairs with the furnace guy, I was upstairs cramming out one of the best letters of recommendations I have ever written. The more I thought about this girl, the more positive characteristics came to mind. Her awesome Mom printed it out and drove here for me to sign it. Amazing parent. She also dropped me off some Mary Kay goodies... and is excited to brag about meeting Zach to her daughter :)
Zach got his fist bath from us today too!! I think we were putting this off out of nervousness, but it all worked out! He was great in the tub and smells amazing! No more greaseball hair!!
Then Tony and I took turns showering- I put my underwear on and my jeans (still maternity). I put on a cute nursing tank top that my Mom got for me and cardigan... it felt SO GOOD to be in real clothes!! ...for a while. The underwear and the jeans were hitting me at my incision. So that lasted about an hour- just enough time to run and look for nursing accessories- like coverups and bras.
We had been eating some yummy hot beef sandwiches for dinner every night that we have been home. Tonight we had a mexican style shepherd's pie (freezer meal!) and baked sweet potatoes. It was SO delicious and a nice change-up (but I loveee the hot beefs!).
Day 6 for Zach is in the books!
2012-03-01 Coming Into the World
original post date Feb 6, 2012
I suppose I need to catch everyone up!!! This could be a bit more information than people want to know, but we have to record it somehow :)
*water breaking story, you may want to skip this paragraph* Last Wednesday (Feb 1), I had an appointment at 3:00. I had been having contractions- but nothing consistent enough to ever do anything about (though we got real close twice!). As Dr M is checking me out she starts telling me we'll plan to be induced next Wednesday, tells me I am 5cm dilated, then proceeds to give me a good, vigorous check- but that she didn't want my water breaking on her shoes- we chuckle- and then there it goes- my water broke (not her plan to do so!). She has to reach behind to push the help button- her hand was not a very good cork and I was gushin. At the same time, I was SO EXCITED!! I knew that my baby would not be far behind! The poor nurse began cleaning the spillage up- and found a nice diaper for me! I laughed once the diaper was on... I had worn jeans!- I asked her about my panyline on the way out. Seriously, I was excited!!
I called Tony on the way to the hospital. We had carpooled that morning and he needed to find a way there! I called my Mom. I called Tony's Mom. Then I called my substitute to let them know they'd report for duty tomorrow! I got to the hospital and sent a text to my boss who replied, "Yeeeeee-haaaa! Good luck girl!" <- one reason why I love my job!
We got settled in- I remember just being so happy and excited- nothing like I had been the last few weeks. I had an instant change of mood and attitude. Luckily I had fun nurses to joke with! My Mom came up after work. We were all ready for the baby to be here at any time... at any time...
Around 7:00 my contractions were getting really strong, especially in my back. Poor Tony was massaging by back through each one- and no position was comfortable for me to be in. I gave in and asked for the epidural. What a difference!! We watched the Hawkeye basketball game during this part- my nurse and the anesthesiologist were Hawk fans too... this was helpful in remembering what time I received it at! Taking the epidural allowed me to relax... and I would need that energy.
The doctor came in- we just needed his head to be lower. A few hours later it was maybe a little lower and we started pushing somewhere between 2 and 3:30. My Mom was still with us- had been planning on being home by this point... but the doctors kept thinking the baby would be here in no time. I pushed until 8-8:30 in the morning with little to no change in the baby's position. The nurses were so encouraging- Tony and Mom were so helpful... but there was nothing we could do. The baby was turned on his side, all the back pain was coming back, I was falling asleep between contractions- I was miserable. The doctor said the baby was too big and wasn't getting into position- time for a cesarean section. Thank God!!! I didn't have to push anymore and the end was in sight. (My Mom was still here at this point, should have been at work for an hour!). A little after 9, they start wheeling us down and my Mom is all prepared to leave and come back that night. I looked at her and asked why she would leave now?! The baby is coming! She could be the first one!! I told her to lay on the couch and sleep... I doubt that happened, but she stayed!
*graphic- how the c-section went- skip this paragraph* They got me in the OR, prepped the space, hung the curtains, brought Tony in-- and I felt the slice through my stomach. I didn't know how the drugs in this room were supposed to feel, so I told them, "I can feel that!!" Then I felt the tugging and pulling and ripping of everything else. I still told them I could feel it- then squeezed Tony's hand as I went "ah! ah! ah! ah!" and probably arched my back (or tried to?). They pulled the baby's head and body out. They called Tony to look over- he said it was a boy (amid his tears) and then I heard the cries. I think I was still awake when the afterbirth came... but then I was out!!
I woke up in the recovery room. Tony hadn't told them his name yet, my sweet husband was waiting for me. So I told the nurses our son's name: Zachary Lee. He was born at 9:21am on 2-2-12, weighing in at 8lbs and 8oz and was 21 inches long. The nurse asked if I want to hold him... well, yes- but I can't do anything, how am I supposed to hold him?! Then if I want to start feeding him... I don't think I was very conscious at this time- it was weird. Went back to the room and the rest of the day seems like one big blur! As do the rest of the days...
Zach... well how do I compare newborn babies? I can't. I thought he was a superstar. However, he tended to be a lazy 'sucker.' Zach got jaundiced and though his feedings and diapers seemed to be good- he wasn't getting the nutrients he needed. On Friday morning they told us he was basically starving- the lactation nurse gave him a bottle while they were testing him because he was too much at risk for that, inconsolable, and possibly lost more weight than they wanted. We started supplementing with formula for the next couple days. On Saturday morning we knew he had to have gained weight or stay the same in order for us to take him home- he gained 3/10ths of an ounce... Tony and I hi-fived! Our nurses throughout our stay were awesome! Tia the first few hours, Ruthie took us through the pushing before Angie stepped in. Angie took care of us the next two days, Penny taught us a new swaddle, Courtney became our night nurse and took all of his tests at night so we could get a bit of sleep, and Stacy- who also kept us laughing the last couple days and gave some awesome advice on the whole breast-feeding deal. We are so grateful to all of them!!!!
We got to come home on Sunday. We were 1 of 6 born that day, 1 of 5 c-sections that day... and we were the last to leave on Sunday :)
Tony and I began unpacking our new life, while our love rested on his boppy. Grandma Cindy came up with some comfy clothes for me, food for all of us, and some new clothes for Zach! Grandpa Tim and Grandma Stephanie came over and watched the football game with us. We tried to keep Zach awake... so the swing was for a fun ride this time... not for sleep time! In this picture Tony called his name before adjusting the speed or music or something and Zach turned to him. I know, he's little- but it's fun to think that he hears us and is smiling when we say something funny, not something that is going on in his dreams :)
Our first night home wasn't so bad. I slept in the recliner next to his pac n play in our bedroom. Our bed is too big for me to get in and out of comfortably right now. Though most everything is running together- I think Zach had a good stretch in there by himself.... but maybe I pulled him out and let him sleep with me for a while. Around 4am (seems to be the one thing we have down) he woke up for a feeding and was wide awake for a while. We watched the news and hung out on the couch... before we both fell asleep again until 8ish.
Today he did an awesome job feeding! We have no gone 24hours without supplementing! He has also had a lot of wet diapers- FULL wet diapers, which means he is kicking some jaundice butt and I am kicking some feeding butt!
Day 1 at home is nearly in the books. For now, Dad and Zach are watching Texas basketball and cuddling. Tony has been in charge of prepping all the laundry and so I have a stack to fold!
I know people say "your life will change forever!" and many times it seems like this is negative. I know we can't head out for a beer at any whim and it will take more time to plan our outings and vacations/weekends away and life will need a little more effort. But as long as our life is spent with Zach, it can change.
I can't get enough
Reading with Grandpa Marty and Taylor (thanks for the help, Grandma Cindy!)
Cuddling with Grandma Stephanie
Aunt Jheri feeding him his emergency bottle we brought to church
Checking out Uncle Ian
Showing Uncle Max how strong he is
It's been one week since you looked at me,
cocked your head to the side and said I'm Zachary.
Five days since you cried at me saying,
"get that together and really feed me"
Three days since the living room
I realized I need to sleep in your arms
Yesterday we went out of the house
but it'll still be days til I sleep on my own
Okay... so I am not that great at parodies (no rhyme in that one)- but this song- (the first two lines)- have been in my head all day!!
Today we had a photo shoot! We took photos of him for his birth announcements and then we took his 1 week photos. By this time, Zach was not happy with his Momma... but the plus side to that is he stretches his legs when he is crying so we get the full effect of his size! The "1 WEEK" sign is a 4x6 note card for further reference!
What can you tell about a newborn's likes and dislikes??
Likes: watching Daddy, cluster feeding (working on this one with the pacifier... seems to be working!!), laying on Mom's chest, being held on Dad's arms, starting to like the swing- becoming very interested in it, and sleeping.
Dislikes: diaper changes and photo shoots :)
Today was a great day! We spent the first couple days at home catching up on laundry and figuring out how to handle Zach at home.
Yesterday we said to heck with it all- he's our babe and we're not going to stress about his sleeping. It's okay of Momma and Zach sleep together in the recliner or on the couch (in my arms in the recliner, totally safe- I sleep on the outside of the the chaise lounge so he is extra safe here... don't worry). Yesterday we relaxed.
Today we got up and got moving!! We had the motor in our furnace replaced this morning. It had been making a really loud humming noise since we moved in (probably should have gotten in checked out before the move in!). It is quiet, it blows harder, and it cost me my new camera this month :( That's okay. I have a working camera- and I'd rather spend the money towards necessities and paying the car off (he has me brainwashed!).
While Tony was downstairs with the furnace guy, I was upstairs cramming out one of the best letters of recommendations I have ever written. The more I thought about this girl, the more positive characteristics came to mind. Her awesome Mom printed it out and drove here for me to sign it. Amazing parent. She also dropped me off some Mary Kay goodies... and is excited to brag about meeting Zach to her daughter :)
Zach got his fist bath from us today too!! I think we were putting this off out of nervousness, but it all worked out! He was great in the tub and smells amazing! No more greaseball hair!!
(he cried, yes... but he cries when we change his diaper so no surprise here)
Then Tony and I took turns showering- I put my underwear on and my jeans (still maternity). I put on a cute nursing tank top that my Mom got for me and cardigan... it felt SO GOOD to be in real clothes!! ...for a while. The underwear and the jeans were hitting me at my incision. So that lasted about an hour- just enough time to run and look for nursing accessories- like coverups and bras.
(mesmerized by his Daddy)
We had been eating some yummy hot beef sandwiches for dinner every night that we have been home. Tonight we had a mexican style shepherd's pie (freezer meal!) and baked sweet potatoes. It was SO delicious and a nice change-up (but I loveee the hot beefs!).
Day 6 for Zach is in the books!
I suppose I need to catch everyone up!!! This could be a bit more information than people want to know, but we have to record it somehow :)
*water breaking story, you may want to skip this paragraph* Last Wednesday (Feb 1), I had an appointment at 3:00. I had been having contractions- but nothing consistent enough to ever do anything about (though we got real close twice!). As Dr M is checking me out she starts telling me we'll plan to be induced next Wednesday, tells me I am 5cm dilated, then proceeds to give me a good, vigorous check- but that she didn't want my water breaking on her shoes- we chuckle- and then there it goes- my water broke (not her plan to do so!). She has to reach behind to push the help button- her hand was not a very good cork and I was gushin. At the same time, I was SO EXCITED!! I knew that my baby would not be far behind! The poor nurse began cleaning the spillage up- and found a nice diaper for me! I laughed once the diaper was on... I had worn jeans!- I asked her about my panyline on the way out. Seriously, I was excited!!
I called Tony on the way to the hospital. We had carpooled that morning and he needed to find a way there! I called my Mom. I called Tony's Mom. Then I called my substitute to let them know they'd report for duty tomorrow! I got to the hospital and sent a text to my boss who replied, "Yeeeeee-haaaa! Good luck girl!" <- one reason why I love my job!
We got settled in- I remember just being so happy and excited- nothing like I had been the last few weeks. I had an instant change of mood and attitude. Luckily I had fun nurses to joke with! My Mom came up after work. We were all ready for the baby to be here at any time... at any time...
Around 7:00 my contractions were getting really strong, especially in my back. Poor Tony was massaging by back through each one- and no position was comfortable for me to be in. I gave in and asked for the epidural. What a difference!! We watched the Hawkeye basketball game during this part- my nurse and the anesthesiologist were Hawk fans too... this was helpful in remembering what time I received it at! Taking the epidural allowed me to relax... and I would need that energy.
The doctor came in- we just needed his head to be lower. A few hours later it was maybe a little lower and we started pushing somewhere between 2 and 3:30. My Mom was still with us- had been planning on being home by this point... but the doctors kept thinking the baby would be here in no time. I pushed until 8-8:30 in the morning with little to no change in the baby's position. The nurses were so encouraging- Tony and Mom were so helpful... but there was nothing we could do. The baby was turned on his side, all the back pain was coming back, I was falling asleep between contractions- I was miserable. The doctor said the baby was too big and wasn't getting into position- time for a cesarean section. Thank God!!! I didn't have to push anymore and the end was in sight. (My Mom was still here at this point, should have been at work for an hour!). A little after 9, they start wheeling us down and my Mom is all prepared to leave and come back that night. I looked at her and asked why she would leave now?! The baby is coming! She could be the first one!! I told her to lay on the couch and sleep... I doubt that happened, but she stayed!
*graphic- how the c-section went- skip this paragraph* They got me in the OR, prepped the space, hung the curtains, brought Tony in-- and I felt the slice through my stomach. I didn't know how the drugs in this room were supposed to feel, so I told them, "I can feel that!!" Then I felt the tugging and pulling and ripping of everything else. I still told them I could feel it- then squeezed Tony's hand as I went "ah! ah! ah! ah!" and probably arched my back (or tried to?). They pulled the baby's head and body out. They called Tony to look over- he said it was a boy (amid his tears) and then I heard the cries. I think I was still awake when the afterbirth came... but then I was out!!
I woke up in the recovery room. Tony hadn't told them his name yet, my sweet husband was waiting for me. So I told the nurses our son's name: Zachary Lee. He was born at 9:21am on 2-2-12, weighing in at 8lbs and 8oz and was 21 inches long. The nurse asked if I want to hold him... well, yes- but I can't do anything, how am I supposed to hold him?! Then if I want to start feeding him... I don't think I was very conscious at this time- it was weird. Went back to the room and the rest of the day seems like one big blur! As do the rest of the days...
Zach... well how do I compare newborn babies? I can't. I thought he was a superstar. However, he tended to be a lazy 'sucker.' Zach got jaundiced and though his feedings and diapers seemed to be good- he wasn't getting the nutrients he needed. On Friday morning they told us he was basically starving- the lactation nurse gave him a bottle while they were testing him because he was too much at risk for that, inconsolable, and possibly lost more weight than they wanted. We started supplementing with formula for the next couple days. On Saturday morning we knew he had to have gained weight or stay the same in order for us to take him home- he gained 3/10ths of an ounce... Tony and I hi-fived! Our nurses throughout our stay were awesome! Tia the first few hours, Ruthie took us through the pushing before Angie stepped in. Angie took care of us the next two days, Penny taught us a new swaddle, Courtney became our night nurse and took all of his tests at night so we could get a bit of sleep, and Stacy- who also kept us laughing the last couple days and gave some awesome advice on the whole breast-feeding deal. We are so grateful to all of them!!!!
We got to come home on Sunday. We were 1 of 6 born that day, 1 of 5 c-sections that day... and we were the last to leave on Sunday :)
Tony and I began unpacking our new life, while our love rested on his boppy. Grandma Cindy came up with some comfy clothes for me, food for all of us, and some new clothes for Zach! Grandpa Tim and Grandma Stephanie came over and watched the football game with us. We tried to keep Zach awake... so the swing was for a fun ride this time... not for sleep time! In this picture Tony called his name before adjusting the speed or music or something and Zach turned to him. I know, he's little- but it's fun to think that he hears us and is smiling when we say something funny, not something that is going on in his dreams :)
He did a great job being awake while they were here. We weren't surprised though. He doesn't understand the difference between day and night :)
Our first night home wasn't so bad. I slept in the recliner next to his pac n play in our bedroom. Our bed is too big for me to get in and out of comfortably right now. Though most everything is running together- I think Zach had a good stretch in there by himself.... but maybe I pulled him out and let him sleep with me for a while. Around 4am (seems to be the one thing we have down) he woke up for a feeding and was wide awake for a while. We watched the news and hung out on the couch... before we both fell asleep again until 8ish.
Today he did an awesome job feeding! We have no gone 24hours without supplementing! He has also had a lot of wet diapers- FULL wet diapers, which means he is kicking some jaundice butt and I am kicking some feeding butt!
Grandpa Marty coming over was the hi-light of our day!!! Zach was so happy to see him and fell fast asleep in his arms... and stayed there comfortable for a few hours. He didn't even fuss for a feeding!!
Day 1 at home is nearly in the books. For now, Dad and Zach are watching Texas basketball and cuddling. Tony has been in charge of prepping all the laundry and so I have a stack to fold!
I know people say "your life will change forever!" and many times it seems like this is negative. I know we can't head out for a beer at any whim and it will take more time to plan our outings and vacations/weekends away and life will need a little more effort. But as long as our life is spent with Zach, it can change.
2012-02-20 Welcome Zachary Lee
post date: February 2, 2012
2012-02-24 Waiting Patiently
Our first photo of .....
Now we're waiting to meet you in person. Who are you?
When can we see you for real??
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