Asher is 1 month!

I had a baby a month ago? WOWSERS! It goes by even faster with your second baby. My little man is growing so fast. He's a little over 10 lbs and 8 oz, and he's getting bigger everyday! He's been wearing size 1 diapers from the start, and in size 3 month clothes. I never even got a chance for the newborn clothes. I thought because I was having him so early he'd be in some. Nope. ;)

Life has been pretty good over here. He's awake more and more during the day... but, still giving me longer stretches of sleep during the day. However, during the night he's been giving me more 3 hour stretches. He sleeps better in his bassinet than Jake did. I have been contemplating putting Asher in his crib swaddled. So, I might try and start swaddling him again. Jake HATED it, so I stopped... and Asher hasn't been very fond of it either. So, I stopped with him as well. However, I heard to try again and try and put him in his crib. We'll see. I really like him close to me at night. Especially, with all of the feedings.

Here are some pictures I took today:

 I LOVE THIS PICTURE!

 Cutie pie!

It's back...

HYPERLACTATION.

What does that mean?
Hyperlactation

Basically, because I'm hyperlactating (over supply of milk production), I'm causing a little bit of gas for Asher. Luckily, I have been working with the same lactation specialist I did with Jake, and it adjusts in a few weeks.

The worst thing about it, is that my little man gets gas from the over supply and quick release of foremilk. The good thing is that I have so much pumped and saved.

Working with the specialist we came up with a good plan. Looks like Asher is 10 lbs and 8 oz. That's a pretty good gain weight, right? ha ha. Looks like I have another big boy in the making. ;)

The plan is as follows:
From the hours of 5am - 1pm:
Pump 3-4 minutes on the one side I will feed him on (I only have to feed on one side... not both). Then I feed him, change his diaper, tummy time, gas medicine, and then finish feeding him. Then an hour after my first feeding (usually around 6am), I pump both sides for a total of 10-15 minutes. Then I wont express pump before my 2nd feeding.

1pm - until we go to bed:
I just feed him normally and give him gas medicine. I don't express pump.

Overnight:
Just feed. No medicine.

No bottles. I was instructed that that will increase gas and isn't good for babies this young. I can give him a bottle after he's 1 month old... and only 4-5 days. After 2 months old I can increased the bottles of my pumped milk. I know this isn't super practical with our life on the go or when your trying to get an extra few hours of sleep... but, I will do my best to NOT use them if possible. This will be tough.

I then check back next Thursday for a weigh in and check up. Hoping this relieves my little man. I know its a pain, but I really want to breastfeed, and I can't handle the gas the poor baby gets. I know this is a little of a pain, but in the end... it's worth it! I think I only did this for a few weeks with Jake. Hopefully, less gas will have him sleep longer than 3 hours at night! ;)

So, that's the update. I have a few friends that are hyperlactaters too! If you need to see a specialist who is AMAZING... message me! I'll send you her info... she's out of Long Beach, and Torrance.

Here are a couple pics (of course from my cell... I need to take out my DSLR more!). But, I capture the moments as they happen this way.

 My munchkins!

18 months/3 weeks - Today is Asher's official due date!

Jake has been 18 months old since March 1. I've been a little busy, so I haven't had a chance to blog about that. He's doing great! At his 18 month appointment he didn't have to have any shots, and he of course surpassed all the "normal" growth markers. Smart little cookie! He's in the 93rd percentile for height, and 90th percentile for weight. The doctor said he's starting to even out now. He's tall and solid.

He loves to color, play with his puzzles, play basketball, and he's starting to like soccer as well. Next month I'm signing Jake up for spring swim classes, and may even look back into Gymboree. I like to keep him busy. :)

Jake has been amazing with Asher. He kisses and hugs him all day. I was concerned at first on how he was going to react to having a brother and only being 17 months apart... I didn't think he would fully understand. I was wrong. He totally understands. Anytime Ash cries or makes a sound he runs to him... and rubs him. It seriously the sweetest thing ever. He's just a sweetheart in general.

Ash is doing great! It's crazy to think that today is actual Asher's due date! But, my little munchkin is 3 weeks! He's getting so big already! It looks like I might be hyper lactating again. So, just like with Jake he's a gassy little man. I am producing so much milk! I have about 30 baggies in the freezer already! I blogged about it back when Jake was 3 weeks old (Hyper Lactation). I have been in contact with the same lactation specialist and we are working out a plan with a little gas medicine. If you read my story last time, I had to pump before I fed him... This time I'm just weighing him weekly and giving him gas medicine. With hyper lactation there is a pretty big weight gain, so that's why weighing Ash is involved. I might have to pump before I feed him again. We'll see... I do know that it all gets adjusted with time! I vaguely remember around 8 weeks, Jake's gas started to get better! I can make it! ;)

Asher is very similar to Jake in his sleeping pattern. My little men eat EVERY 2 hours when there newborns! I sometimes get lucky and they'll weight 3 hours... but, they are pretty consistent with that. Breast milk also runs through their little bodies faster, causing more frequent feedings... I know breastfeeding is so important! I breastfed Jake until he was 9 months... let's hope I can go that long with Asher. There are quite a few sleepless nights over here... but, I know that once I can sleep train... I will get that sleep again. It's been great having Jake on his schedule. That way I know that I only have Asher to care for when Jake is down.

There are some stressful moments during the day with these 2 little ones... but, all in all... it's not nearly as scary as some people prepared me for. Jake is smart. When Ash starts to cry, he stands by and watches. The only time it gets a little stressful, is when Grant is working late. The night time routine is a little more of a challenge with out that extra hand. So, I just try and time it right. Timing is usually as follows: feed Asher, get him sleepy so he takes a nap... and then I feed Jake, bathe him, and put him down. Then all my time goes back to Asher. I bathe him, feed him, and snuggle with him.

Being a mommy of 2 is awesome. I can't wait until Asher is a little older and will play with Jake. I just know they're going to be best friends. I'm excited for the day when there playing sports and going to school together. Buds forever! :)

Lastly, to answer the question about how I am doing... I'm good! The VBAC was great! I'm glad I did my own research, and went forward believing that it would be a success. I feel great! I literally do not feel like I had a baby a few weeks ago! The first week after I had Ash was the toughest. But, I right after I had him, I ate a subway sandwich, went to the restroom, and was walking all over. :) The nurses commented on how active I was. My body has bounced back so quickly! I'm back to the same weight I was before I got pregnant with Asher. I have a personal goal to lost another 10 pounds and then I'll be the same weight I was before my wedding. I'm into SOME of my old jeans! However, I have some working out to do once I'm cleared to tone everything back up again! ha! I'm ready for my spin, walking around the beach, and (gulp) eating healthier. I'm a pretty healthy eater... but, this means more salads, and less carbs. I can do it! Goal: bikini for summer? Perhaps! I go to the doctor the first week of April for my 6 week postpartum appointment. I'm ready for excising!

Well, I better run! I hear Ash calling for me! Jake is running towards him! Have a good weekend!

Here are some pictures from the week:

Asher looks more like his mommy! My mom said that he reminded her a little of me. He of course has Grant's dimples (cheeks and chin). Oh! And he has the longest fingers and toes... just like Grant! So, we think that Ash has my blonde hair, eyes, nose, and lips. :) It's really too early to tell. I'll have to post my baby picture to compare! 

 Precious!

 Loving on my baby!

 Out for a walk with the new stroller! 

 Walked into the kitchen and found this banana. Jake is so tall he grabbed it, took a bite, and put it back. He ate right from the skin! I peeled it and gave it right back to him. He LOVES bananas!

 Jake likes to rock Asher back to sleep. 

 I have a great life! 

2 weeks old (March 9)

These last 2 weeks have been great. My mom left last week, so this was my first week home alone with my two boys. It's been awesome. And you really feel accomplished when both are fed, napping, happy and your all showered and relaxing. ;)

I feel great! The VBAC was the best thing I could have done. The first week was the toughest, but I still felt good overall! I was able to do anything and everything I wanted. I had to have reminders to slow down because I tend to push myself. My body is naturally going back to its "normal" shape. I know breastfeeding helps as well. But, not being cut into has been a faster healing process. Exactly why I did it. Lots of people thought I was crazy to do it. But, the success rate it quite high. And the end result is what is happening to me currently. I hope more women try to attempt a VBAC, especially if they NEVER wanted a c section. 

Jake is adjusting so well to his little brother. He loves on, kisses, and rubs him. I try not to make anything a big deal. Jake still gets lots of my time. I put Ash down once he falls to sleep and immediately pick up Jake, or play with him. He isn't even affected by it. At first he would try to lay on me while Ash was... but, I put him next to me and rub him too. Grant and I really make sure that Jake is happy and adjusting.

I'm so happy. I love my boys so much! I feel so loved, and I have so much love to give. Being a wife and a mother has truly been a blessing. I thank God everyday for my life. I just feel so lucky to be able to stay home and take care of the people that matter most to me. I am also well taken care of. Grant is so helpful! He helps me when I'm tired and not feeling well. This past week I got sick and have been struggling a little with that. Grant picks up the slack with Jake when he's home from work, and help with Asher in the middle of the night. These boys have such a great role model to look up to. :)

Asher has been eating every 2-3 hours. During the day this is good... but, at night this does get a little tiring. Jake was the same way. Last night Asher slept well. His longest stretch was from 3:30 until 7:30am. And he woke up STARVING! ;)

Last weekend we took some family photos, and had Asher's newborn photos taken as well. Jake and Asher did great! I can't wait to see them all! Here is a sneak peek that we got from our photographer! I warn you... Asher is quite the model! He's so pretty... I mean handsome. :)

 Hope you have a great Sunday!

1 week old (March 2nd)

It's hard to believe that I had Asher a week ago! He is so cute. I can't stop kissing him! I want to hold him all the time and hug on him. I feel so incredibly lucky to have another son. Jake has been great through the whole process. I don't think he really knows what to make of it. I ask him where his brother is and he'll point to him. Yesterday he gave him a kiss and a hug. It was really sweet. Now I ask him where his brother is and he points at him. I ask him to kiss his brother every chance their together. Nothings sweeter to me. Brotherly love.

Here are some pics from over the week:

 Then on Wednesday I took him to his first check up with my mom. He's doing great! He's gaining weight, and getting big... already! He was born at 7 lbs and 9oz, and we left the hospital at 7 lbs and 2 oz. On Wednesday he was 7 lbs and 6 oz. So, everything is on track. I'm sure much like Jake he'll be gaining weight like crazy now that we are home! He sleeps great during the day. I feed him every 2-3 hours and he takes close to 2 oz. I'm only breast feeding yet again. I already have about 8 packs of milk stored in the freezer. So, it looks like all is well in that department. He sleeps OK at night. He still wakes up every 2-3 hours for feedings. He's a hungry little guy!

 Grant hanging with his sons. Melts my heart. I LOVE THIS PICTURE. Grant is such a good daddy! :)

 My first glass! Yum Yum Yummy!!

And here is a quick collage I made of Jake vs. Asher at the same age. Jake's pictures are to the left, and Asher's pictures are to the right. One from the hospital, and one smiling pic. I think that Jake looks a lot like his daddy... and I think that Asher might just look like his mommy! :)

Enjoy your weekend!

Introducing... Asher John Stone

He's ARRIVED!
February 24, 2012
7:05pm
7 lbs 9 oz 19.5 inches

He's perfect! He was ready to rock and roll at 36.5 weeks old! Pretty good size, huh? I have received so many messages in regards to the VBAC and if I still attempted it, and how everything went. Rather than send out mass texts/emails, I thought I would blog so that everyone can read it and then I can turn my blog going forward into Asher's baby book. Just like I did for Jake.

Here's how the story begins...

February 22, 2012: I started having contractions in the morning. They started to happen every 6 minutes or so. I was concerned with having a VBAC and laboring at home, so Grant dropped Jake off at my dear friend Liz's house and we went into Long Beach Memorial. I was checked. Contractions were indeed every 5-6 minutes, but the contractions were just not strong enough to be considered active labor. I was still 1 centimeter dilated, and 90 effaced. No change. I decided to go home and rest.

February 23, 2012: Over the night I had lots of pain, and I thought lots of change as well. I was in pain with the contractions, and they were exactly 5 minutes apart. I went most of the day and tried to relax, but by the afternoon, my girlfriend Kristy came over to watch Jake, so Grant and I could go to
  the hospital again. My contractions were confirmed at every 5 minutes. No change in centimeters or effacement. I still wasn't ready. Even though they were more painful, and closer together... I still wasn't ready. I went home... confused. But, I also knew at this point, the baby was coming soon.

February 24, 2012: I woke up feeling really rested. I got up, showered, got ready for the day, and went to get coffee/bagels for Grant and I. The walk from the car to the bagel shop was a bit challenging. I got back and I didn't even want to eat. The contractions started again. I had Amelia (Jake's babysitter) come over to help me with him, so that I could relax a little. I laid down, and tried to take it easy. Around noon I knew something was for sure going on. I knew I was going to have the baby. My contractions were about 2 minutes apart. I didn't want to rush into the hospital since the 2 days before I went in and wasn't ready. So, I stayed at home and monitored myself. I finally called the doctor. My contractions were way more painful and for sure 2 minutes apart. The doctors office told me to go in immeditaely. I still hesitated. I called the Labor and Delivery unit for advice. They said to drink 3 glasses of water and relax. Then they said, take a walk and then come in for a shower. If the contractions have settled down, relax. If they have continued.... Go in. 

So there I went... Amelia, Jake, and I went on a walk down the street. 2 glasses of water deep, and another in hand we went. I got back finished my water, took a shower, and laid on the couch. Amelia left, and my friend Liz came over to check on Jake and I. Grant was in a meeting and I knew he was close to home if I needed him. I was laying on the couch talking with Liz, and then I felt a kick like sensation! It actually startled me. I got up and looked at Liz. I told her I thought my water had broken. I ran to the bathroom (remembering when my water broke with Jake) and verified that indeed my water was broken.  I called Katy. I told Katy to come over and watch Jake until we could figure out my mom flying into town, etc. Then I called Grant. I told Grant to hurry and get home. My contractions were becoming close to a minute a part, and were VERY painful. 

Grant and I got to the hosptial about 15 minutes later. My contractions were so bad that I could barely walk. This was it! Grant and I were so excited. Operation VBAC was in full affect! At that point I started praying. This was it! The moment I was waiting for. Would it be a success? Could I possibly end in c section after 24 hours of my water breaking? There were so many things that were racing through my head. But, I stayed strong. I WAS GOING TO HAVE A SUCCESFUL VBAC! 

I got admitted. Contractions were strong. They were 1 minute apart. I was confirmed at 1 centimeter, and 100 effaced. They said because the contractions were so close together and I am a VBAC that they would administer the epidural. Epidural incase I needed to become a c section, and also for pain. LET ME TELL YOU PEOPLE.... They are very nice! My whole experience changed after I got one. I didn't scream or act like a crazy person during the contractions. I was quite, I focused on a focal point, and I got through them. Once the epidural was in I was just going to wait and see what happened. They said most likely I'd be there for awhile. And that I would probably have the baby the next morning. They also mentioned that since my water broke I had about 18-24 hours to have him or I would risk infection to the baby. Because the water sack protects the baby and the body against infection. And mine was ruptured. So, they would most likely take him c section if I didn't progress. My doctor wasn't on that night, but lives close. Her husband was out of town so she had called me to tell me she would come in the morning and she'd hope to delivery the baby. I like all the doctors from her group, so I wasn't worried. Grant began to read a book on his ipad, and I just laid and tried to get some rest. We were ready for a long night. Jake was with my best friend Katy, and my mom was coming in the next day. Everything was taking care of on the home front. 

Then I had this weird pain. I told Grant I began to feel the contractions again. I also told the nurse. She said it was kind of odd, but she said if they get any stronger to let her know. She left the room. Grant and I were sitting there talking when all of a sudden I scream for him to get the nurse. He looked at me puzzled. I told him I was starting to push! I could literally NOT stop myself. He ran out of the room to get the nurse. The nurse came in and said it's not possible for the baby to be here so soon. But, she'd check to see if I've dilated anymore. Then I here her say.... "F#$K!". She got on the phone and started calling people. Yelling for them to hurry into the room. She then got on the phone and found that the doctor on call was in route and would be there in 20 minutes. She looked at me and said, "that she had never seen someone go from 1cm/100% to 10cm/100% and a -2 station in just a few hours. She was literally touching the babies head. The next thing I knew I had about 10 people in the room. Nurses, doctors, attendees, etc. 

The next thing I know I'm in position to really push. But, there was a minor problem. My little man was sunny side up! It didn't matter, that wasn't going to stop this process. They decided to use the vacuum (not sure of the technical term), to assist with his birth. They said I had 3 sets of 3 pushes to get him out or we'd have to think about a c section. On my 3rd set of pushes, one the nurses looked over at me and said, "from what I understand about you... you are an A type, profectionist! You don't want a c section, and you've made it this far... you can do it! PUSH!!" At that moment, I looked at Grant and looked down... and pushed like crazy! BAM! Asher John Stone was born. Hallajulah! My son arrived. Labor didn't drag on, and even though it was hard... it was way worth it! I totally recommend having a VBAC for any woman that has the desire to have one. You have to mentally be ready for one. The odds can sound scary, and lets be honest... Labor is NO joke! But, in the end... The pain after and recovery is totally different. I was able to hold Jake immediately, eat, get up (after epidural wore off), and do almost anything. The c section wasn't all that bad. But, I wanted to be more mobile afterwords. I wanted to be able to hold my son immediately, and also be able to play with my son(s) and not be limited on what I can and cannot do. I'm so thankful and blessed to have had this oppertunity. Everything went better than expected, and I'm doing great!

ASHER JOHN: We finally decided on a name just weeks before he was born. Asher is a biblical name. Asher means happy and blessed. John is a family name. It's on the Spellman side. My father is Martin John Spellman III, and my brother is Martin John Spellman IV. We were orginally going to go with Duke Martin Stone, but then once we changed the name to Asher we didn't think Martin went as well. John is also Hebrew. It means God is gracious. And isn't that the truth? It's the perfect name. He's the perfect little man. I'm just so in love. I have so many men to love! 

I DID IT! VBAC SUCCESS!

Our family has grown! 

My beautiful blonde baby!

But, what would my story be without a little drama? That's right folks... More took place. After they took Ash, they ran tests right away. Being 36 1/2 weeks runs a little risk. After a day with me breastfeeding. His sugar levels weren't high enough for the doctors liking. They took Asher into the NICU. I had to walk behind the nurses with my son in his bassinet following them in. They told me he couldn't sleep with me and might not be able to leave when we leave. He was in the NICU for 2 days. They hooked my newborn baby up on an IV and administered Dextrose (Glucose / Sugar). His body balanced itself out by the first day, and the second day he stayed to be monitored off the IV. We were able to take him home 1 day after we came home. I remember walking down the halls for a 2am feeding crying. Hysterical. But, I prayed. I prayed the entire day. I prayed for the health of my little Ash. How scary a feeling to not know what's happening. To be so happy for short period and then worry struck! Grant was my rock. He prayed with me, reminded me that this is common, and told me it would all be alright. My mom flew into town on Saturday and has been so helpful. Cooking, cleaning, helping with both babies, and taking care of me too. I love my mom!

Asher was discharged and is a healthy little monkey. He just need a jump start with his sugar processing. It was a scary thing to have happen, but I'm lucky to have him home with us. I'm so thankful for all the prayers and calls I received. I even heard our pastor in Boise and his 2 services prayed for us. Power of prayer. God is good. We are beyond blessed!

This picture was taken right before we left and had been at the NICU since 4am! I made it to just about every feeding in the NICU. I walked the hallways at all hours. Feeding times were every 3 hours. I wanted to breastfeed my son, and to be there to hold and care for him. So, that is exactly what I did.

Car ride home.

36.2 weeks - Doctor Blogging.

I went into my OBGYN today knowing there have been some changes since my last visit 2 weeks ago. I know my body pretty well... And I was right... There was change.

I am 90% effaced, and 1 centimeter dilated. 

I was the same with Jake at 37.6 weeks, and had my water broke a week later (38.6 weeks). I feel the same as I did with Jake towards the end, I'm only 36.2 weeks. They say you are usually earlier than you were with your first child. I was 8 days early with Jake. 

Yesterday, I had an ultrasound to measure the most accurate weight/size of the baby for VBAC purposes. It looks as if this baby is already measuring around 7 1/2 pounds, and I'm measuring 38 weeks. Not bad considering I've gained a total of 30 lbs. This is obviously just an approximate finding. Until this baby is actually here, we will not really know, right? But, it gives us a good idea where we are. I am all baby! Big belly now! 

My doctor said this is actually what she likes to see for VBAC's. I'm progressing early on, and the baby is measuring full term, this is ideal. I know I could go weeks more... but, seeing my water broke fairly quickly after my effacement and dilation, this is all great news! My doctor said she thinks I'll have the baby in the next week or two. HOLY MOLY! This is really happening! This baby is going to be here soon! EXCITING and nerve racking all at the same time. :)

Last night I bought my double stroller (I went with the BOB Revolution Duallie), and all the other things  I needed. The babies room is completed, and my bag is packed. I have the proper people in place to watch over Jake, and I'm feeling ready. I can't wait to hold my baby boy! The name we chose for this baby is perfect! I love the meaning and it's very special to Grant and I. I just couldn't be happier. 

Now, I just pray for a safe VBAC delivery. The health of the baby is my biggest concern. I'm just so excited to be able to have this opportunity. I will not be disappointed if I end up having a c section. As long as the outcome is a healthy little boy!

Here I am at 36 weeks! Look at my belly! :)