A very belated update

Well, I was remiss in posting an update about Baby L's first birthday so I thought I would do it now!  :). I was feelin nostalgic and was reading the post about baby L's birth and realized I hadn't been posting updates.  Whoops!!

As they say, a picture is worth a thousand words:

Second Surrogacy Journey

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32 Days Later

Look at that sweet, sweet baby!! Can you believe it's been a month already? Heck, my 2 week wait didn't even fly by that quickly.

Baby L's doing well and E&J have adjusted to their new routine. They had visits from family and baby L's big brother even came to visit her. I know E was so happy to have her family all together.

Life's been busy here. It seems that every type of social event you can think of was planned in the months of October and November. I am very much looking forward to the holidays and some rest.

A lot of people have been asking me how I feel and how the surrogacy went. I know it's kind of boring to hear, "I feel great" and "It went really well" but that's honestly how it is. I went back to my own life and while I enjoy the pictures of their family, there's no sadness or longing to have baby L back with me. I think that's the part people are most surprised about.

In other news, I'm back at the gym and back into pre-pregnancy clothes. That's kind of nice because I really didn't want to have to shop for all new clothes! :) (Unless they're in a smaller size, of course!) I'm pretty sure I got all of my "missed" drinking made up and I realize that maybe I didn't miss it as much as I thought? Okay, maybe just the Patron margaritas and my Moscato.

So, all in all, things are back to normal here. The biggest question that remains is whether I'll do it again. That's not a question I think I can answer right now. I do know that if I do, I won't be ready for another year or so. We have a cruise planned for April of 2012 and my 30th birthday is next August. So, those are two milestones that I don't want to be pregnant for. Additionally, I've never wanted to do surrogacy unless it was right for my family and my life at the time. I can't say I know for sure where I'll be in a year and how I'll feel. I think I'd like to do this again though. I had such an amazing experience that I really feel like it's something I'd want to do 2-3 more times, but only if I can do it safely with minimal effects on my family and body. I've always wanted to help a same-sex couple seeing as it's harder for them to find a local surrogate b/c Texas laws make it tricky. I'm really pulled in that direction though and I think that's on my heart for a reason.

So, who knows where this blog will lead. I'm keeping it up in case other stumble upon it and want to ask questions or keep in touch. The surrogacy world is pretty tight-knit, which can be nice. There are lots of crazy people out there and you'd be surprised what you can learn through the grapevine! :)

19 days ago...

a precious baby girl came into the world. I cannot believe how quickly that flew by. Maybe it's because I had Fall Festival to help with and 3 kids and a husband back at home waiting on me to fill my Super Mom shoes again. Life has been insanely busy since the day I delivered. I'm talking Pumpkin Patch pictures, dinners with friends and family, PTO work, working out, a Halloween party getting back to work full-time, trick-or-treating, sick kids, sick mommy, birthday parties, cookie dough pick up, a wedding, a spa day (okay, so that wasn't hard work!) etc. I think I was trying to fit everything into these last 2 weeks to make up for the little bit of time I was on bed rest and at the hospital. So, for about a week, I was go, go, go and then the 2nd week I was sort of a bump on a log because I think I had done too much the week before. I think I found a happy balance now and have backed off a bit. My house is a little worse for the wear, but I am trying to cut myself some slack since it hasn't even been 3 weeks since I pushed a little human into the world.

Speaking of that little human, here are some long-awaited photos!! I finally remembered to ask IM if I could post them! These are from the hospital so forgive my puffiness. I lost 18 lbs. in 8 days and I'm sure that was almost all fluid from being swollen!









As far as how I am feeling, I will be completely honest and say that I feel pretty amazing. I had a couple of days where I felt a little down. It's so very hard to explain it because people automatically assume you regret "giving the baby up" or that you miss the baby or something. Sure, I miss her tiny kicks but I am so happy that she is where she belongs. I cannot tell you how much I do not want to bring another baby home and how happy I am that she is with her family. Remember, I gave her back, not up! :) The "down" part is just the feeling you get after coming off an emotional high. For 16 months, I had this goal of helping to bring a healthy baby into the world. It wasn't all I was; I was still a mom and wife and friend, etc., but it was a large part of my life and when it's over, it's kind of bittersweet. So, that's the feeling I had for a couple of days, but I was still overwhelmingly happy.

I am lucky to get texts, emails, phone calls, pictures and updates almost daily (even now!) from my IPs. They are so very loving and they share so much with me. I love seeing their faces and hearing about their milestones with her. All of it fills my heart up with joy and a little bit of pride too. It's a good feeling to know you helped. I look at my own children and feel that joy of being a parent and can live knowing that I helped someone else feel that.

Incidentally, it's my oldest's 7th birthday today. Happy birthday, Rach!!! Mommy loves you!!!

Delivery Day!

At 7:39AM, I began our delivery day! I checked into the hospital, got my gown on and we got the show on the road. The nurse hooked me up to all of the devices, got my IV started and around 9AM, we started the Pitocin and a little while later, the doctor broke my water. My IPs were on their way from Austin and we had plenty of time for them to arrive as I was only dilated to 2cms and 50% effaced. Baby was high up and wasn't in a hurry to go anywhere. Around 12, I started to get some strong contractions. My IPs were due to arrive at any moment so my nurse, Cathy, asked if I wanted to go ahead and slip my epidural in before they arrived. I didn't want to be uncomfortable while they were there as I like to chat and visit through my labors, so I quickly agreed. Dr. Miller, my OB, slipped in right before the anesthesiologist arrived and gave me a quick check. 2cms, 50% effaced. Boo! I wasn't too surprised as it usually takes me a little while to get to 5 or 6 but to make no progress was a little anticlimatic. The anesthesiologist gave me that wonderful epidural and then stuck around for a few minutes joking around with me saying things like, "Whew! You're my second patient ever!" and "Okay Cathy, you can close the instruction manual now, I'm done looking at the pictures." :) I love a doctor with a good sense of humor! Ahhh, sweet, sweet epidural and I was in heaven. I visited with my IM a bit, napped and rested the next few hours. Around 3, they checked me again and I was at a 4, 50% effaced and minus 2 position. Yay! Progress, but at that rate, I was gonna be at it all day. I knew I could do a little better. They checked me at 5 o'clock and I was at a 5. The nurse flipped me over to my left side and waited it out. 45 mins later, I was at a 9. Cathy looked at me and I said, "And THAT'S how it's done!" We all had a good laugh at that and as those of you that have been in a delivery room know, things move quickly after that. E told J to get the camera as we were going to be seeing their baby soon!! My husband had the privelege of delivering our last two babies. I had asked our doc if E could do that too and she agreed! E thought and thought about it and she was so courageous and decided to take on the challenge! They found her an extra small outfit and got her suited up! J was on the couch and I think he was a little blown away by how quickly it was going. He went to the bathroom and came out to a transformed room with lights, half the bed moved off and everyone in "go" position! My best friend, J, was there with me and I've been trying to get her to stay for a delivery 3 times now! She decided to stay for this one and E&J were so nice to allow that. They put the oxygen mask on me and it was time to push. Dr. Miller told E to reach down and feel her baby's head. That moment...that glorious moment of seeing her make that first connection was phenomenal. She laughed and cried and swooned over making that connection! 4 pushes later, E held a perfect baby girl in her arms after guiding her into this world. That moment is unlike any other I've ever experienced. Seeing a mother bring her baby into this world is indescribable. Baby L was perfect with sweet cheeks, perfectly puckered lips and long fingers and toes! She headed over to the warmer with mommy and daddy and a family was made. I can't count how many times E&J said thank you that day, but I was the one that felt so thankful to have experienced this. Baby L is such a blessing to so many already. She weighed in at 8 lbs,, 2 oz. (a personal record for my uterus!) and 19.75 inches long. She was born at 6:08PM (See, I'm all business after I reach 5cms). I thank y'all for sharing this journey with us. I hope that it helps guide someone through surrogacy the way other blogs have helped me. It's been so great getting to know some of you through this as well!!

This is the end of our surrogacy pregnancy but just the beginning of our surrogacy journey. October 20th will always be a fun day of memories for me!

Here is a little photo journey of the day for your viewing pleasure!


Arriving at the labor & delivery room!

Last Belly Shot in my oh so fashionable hospital gown!

Sugar-free popsicle, no food allowed after midnight the night before!

Mmmm, ice chips. I'd have a baby all over again just for someone to bring me non-stop ice chips

Trying to get a picture of the contractions but it's blurry

Still smiling even though I'm contracting!

I love to watch "A Baby Story" while laboring!

A beautiful arrangement from fellow blogger and IM to be, A!!! :)

I finally get my rainbow popsicle that I love (even if it's not Blue Bell)

This is what your friends bring you when you are a surrogate!!!

Happy Birthday

Happy birthday, baby L!!!! It's your big day! Your parents trusted me to care for you for the last nine months. I've felt you grow within me, getting stronger every day and now you get to fill the arms of the ones whose hearts you have filled since you were a tiny embryo...maybe even before that as your parents have loved you long before you were ever conceived. The path to get here had some bumps, but they persevered and now, we are all waiting to meet you; the dream, the wanted, the so loved little girl that you already are.

So, be sweet to me and let's have a smooth birth little girl. :) I can't wait to see you meet your family!

Love,
Me

Almost three years ago, while researching surrogacy and reading on a message board, I came across a picture of an IM seeing her baby for the first time. That picture captured the heart of surrogacy for me and in that moment solidified my decision to pursue surrogacy. Today, I get that moment to experience first hand. It's a beautiful thing.

Day 3 of Bed Rest

So, bed rest is going well. I can't complain, mostly because it's only for a few more days so I know I have an end in sight. I do feel for surros that are on bed rest for weeks, or even months, at a time. I also feel for those that don't have support of family or friends. Even these past few days, I've had an outpouring of food, thoughts and gifts from friends, family, and coworkers. It's really touching to know so many people are there for us and care about my family and me.

Here are some things I've learned while on bed rest:

1. Forks go on the left and spoons and knives go on the right. The way to remember this is "fork" and "left" are 4-letter words and "spoon," "knife," and "right" all have 5 letters. Thank you, "Most Eligible Dallas"

2. My husband is indeed capable of caring for 3 children, the house, his wife and attending work. He is a great nurse.

3. My almost 7 yr old will sleep by my side to take care of me at night and wake me up with, "Well good morning, Cheesepuff!! Did you sleep well??"

4. My almost 5 year old will begrudgingly get me some water or put up my bowl for me.

5. My 20 mth old loves that I cannot run after her and is taking full advantage of that freedom.

6. "How I Met Your Mother" and "The Big Bang Theory" complete me.

A little R&R

Today is my first full day of bed rest. Yesterday, I had planned on going to the movies with my friend, Amber. Instead, around 3, I began to feel dizzy, my arms were tingly and the headache that I thought had gone away came back. I'd also been having some bad pain on my right side under my ribs. I figured it was just the way the baby was positioned, as I had experienced that rib pain before with my own kids. This was way more intense though, so who knows. I called the OB office and spoke to the nurse who then consulted with the doc on call as my OB is finishing up a convention in Hawaii. :) The on call doc had me come in so my sweet friend dropped off her boys and drove me to the hospital.

Two hours later, I got sent home on bed rest (after getting permission to stop and pick up some yummy Freebirds). My blood pressure readings were elevated and trace proteins picked up in my urine (look, now we know each other better!) but my blood work was good so I am being allowed to bed rest at home.
I was introduced to this lovely thing called a urine collection container and have to save all my pee for 24 hrs...and I have to refrigerate it. I've never been so glad to have more than one fridge!!
So, Monday, I will check with my doc to see if we need to move up our Tuesday appointment or not. Stay tuned!

Baby Pool

No, not this kind...

A guessing game! Please join us in the online guessing game for baby L's birth stats! We already know it's a girl and that I'm being induced the morning of the 20th (although, she could still come early!). Guess her weight, length, and time of arrival by clicking the link below. Happy guessing!

BABY POOL!

The Heat Is On

My IM and I have this little joke where she calls me her watched pot. I, in turn, told her that I would text her, "The water's boiling! The water's boiling!" when it was time. So, we're in the final days of this pregnancy and the heat is on...I'll let you know when the water's boiled. :)

We had a great visit with my IPs this past weekend. It was just DH and me and my wonderful mommy watched all three of my kiddos. They love it over there and it was nice to have a mini-vacay. That's really what it felt like since my IPs totally spoiled us while we were there. Yummy food, a movie and a comfy chair to put my feet up added to sleeping in late made for a very chillaxin weekend. When we arrived that Friday night, my feet/ankles were pretty puffy.


Exhibit A

My DH and IM told me to put my feet up and IM got me some water. I proceeded to chug water all weekend. I started getting headaches Saturday and had mentioned the puffiness to a nurse friend/former surro. She advised me to call the doc if I began having headaches. Sure enough, I had been having them off and on, nothing horrible, but I did notice I had them throughout the day Saturday and Sunday. I called my OB while at a surrogate luncheon (about half a dozen of us surros, some of their kids and my poor DH, the token male, and I had lunch on our way out) and I ended up going in to the hospital on our way back home because my blood pressure reading at a CVS showed 153/99. Either the machine was wonky or my BP settled down on the drive back to Houston because my 3 readings were fine at Labor & Delivery. Still, better to be safe than sorry, so I'm glad I got it checked out. I've been trying to keep my feet up and taking it easy this week and trying to stay on top of the water.

With all of the unknown about whether or not I was developing preeclampsia, my IPs had a talk and decided they would like to have a little bit of a game plan in place and opted for a scheduled induction should Baby L not make her arrival by the 20th. So, there ya have it, folks. If this little girl doesn't come on her own, I'll be delivering 2 Thursdays from now.

How do I feel about this? Honestly, I secretly love having an end date. Not because I'm uncomfortable or ready to end it, but I am just such a planner that I feel a peace with knowing I will be able to take my kids Trick-or-Treating in their super cute costumes (A Bride, an Angry Bird and Little Red Riding Hood...we will be quite the entourage) and I have a Halloween party to go to, a wedding, a Fall Festival, a birthday party to plan...do you see what I'm getting at? I would never push for an induction and especially not just to suit my schedule, but that's only 6 days early and chances are, she'll come on her own before then. But if I'm being honest, it's kind of nice to have a countdown. I would give up all of those events in a heartbeat if I had to, but it's kind of nice that I don't have to.

Everyone always wonders how my kids will feel and I think this answers it:

Rachel (almost 7): My mom's having a baby but we're not keeping her, we're giving it away! (Ummm...okay, not quite, hunny). When asked if she'd be sad about the fact that baby L does not belong to us or will not be coming home with us, she replied that she would not. She has met E&J and knows that Baby L is their daughter and she said she is so happy that we are growing her for them.

Logan (almost 5): There's a baby in there, I'm serious!! (in reference to seeing baby L move) I asked him if he'd be sad that baby L wouldn't be coming home with us and he promptly replied, "Nope. There's no room for her here." That's it. He knows this is not her home or where she will go. They've always understood where she belonged and that her time with us was temporary.

They still love to feel her kick and like to talk to her and hug my belly. I think that's normal, tender behavior but I do not think this will negatively affect them in any way or I wouldn't have done it.

Here is our latest belly picture. It's not my favorite...I look tired and puffy. I AM tired and puffy, but I really like this shirt so I'm posting it. 14 days and counting!

Happy Birthday

Happy birthday to my best friend, J. She's 30 today and we started her birthday celebration last Saturday and it'll run through the 7th of Oct. That's just how we do it.

We are at 36 weeks today and the baby weighs about 6 lbs. Next week, we'll be full term!! Of course, that doesn't really mean anything in terms of arrival but it does mean she'd be nice and healthy. :)

As our journey draws to a close, I begin to ponder some things. How long before I fit into my pre-pregnancy clothes? Who will I blame the baby weight on when there's no baby around to show for it? Okay, I never said they were important things. :) But seriously folks, I do wonder what it'll all be like. I've had dreams (both daydreams and night dreams) of what I think it'll be like. I've imagined my IPs' faces and the amount of emotion that would be in the room. I've played it all out but I find that reality contains so much more than the imagination allows and I think it's going to be 10 times whatever I've imagined it'll be.

I'm fortunate to have IPs that want me to be in the picture even after the journey. To be honest, I think that it's their right to decide whether there is contact after or not. I do think both parties should try and stick to whatever they mutually agreed upon when matching, but too often, the surrogate falls into a black hole and the IPs are never heard from again. This is heartbreaking for the surrogate as it's often unexpected. My IPs have expressed a desire for me to be Aunt Carmela. I like that. I think it's pretty neat that they'll keep the door to their world open for me. It's not because I want some ownership or entitlement to the baby. Just like I want no ownership or entitlement to my other friends' children (remember, I have 3 of my own) but I will wonder what she'll grow to be like. I think that curiosity is natural. So, again, I count my blessings to be able to stay apart of this family in some form.

Okay baby L, mom and dad are busy packing and mom's just waiting on the call from me to tell her you're on your way!! :)

Born to Be Wild

Head out on the highway, looking for adventure...or maybe just a hospital. We are officially 34 weeks pregnant. While we still have roughly 6 weeks to go, singleton babies are considered term at 37 weeks. It's like the light setting on the toaster though and if the baby popped out now, you'd want to put her back in for another cycle so she gets all nice and evenly baked so we're really shooting for that 40 week mark. :) I have learned that babies can be unpredictable though so with the early window of our 37 week approaching quickly, I thought it best to work out our game plan for getting to the hospital.

Originally, my friend was going to be taking me but life has too many pulls on her right now and she really needs to be available for about 10 other things, so we moved on to plan B. Plan B involves my friends A and J. A is a dear friend of many years and she lives a few blocks down from me. Our kids go to the same school and our boys are super friends. J is a mutual friend of ours, introduced to me by A (thank you!) and is a fellow surrogate and hopeful doula/midwife. What a perfect team, right? So, the plan is when I start to see signs of impending labor, I shoot A&J a text and see which is available. J wants to be along for the ride regardless, so we might just make it a party on the way up. Did I mention the hospital's an hour away? I'm not one of those super quick laborers though, so I'm not worrying about delivering in the car.

I am a wee bit apprehensive about contractions in the car, but given the fact that I've scarfed down a #1 combo from Chick-fil-a between contractions with my son in the hospital parking lot, I think I can handle it. (I know, you're not supposed to eat before you go in, but seriously, CFA had been closed for months and I really wanted some!!) I did not puke, thankyouverymuch.

E&J will, of course, meet us at the hospital when it's time and they are 3 hours away. So, anything that MIGHT be labor-like will prompt a call to them to be on guard (not to be confused with en garde).



In the unlikely event that A&J are simply unavailable, my husband will be driving me. It might seem odd to some that he's not coming with me. One, it's not his baby and I've got this labor thing down so he usually just sits and plays games or hogs the TV anyway. Two, my oldest is in school and our two youngest are across the street with our sitter during the day. I'd rather not interrupt their lives if I can help it and it's so much easier on my husband and the kids if we keep routine at home while mom's away for a couple of days. Three, E&J will be the MVPs there and this day is really about them, but I know E will be there, holding my hand and keeping ice chips within reach as she is so very nurturing and caring. This is just one thing that makes her a good mom. Four, DH is pretty busy at work and it's better than he not miss as he only has a little vacation time and we're going on a super fun cruise in April. Since he works for a school district, his vacation starts over in June. :) I'd rather have him sipping pina coladas by me than eating hospital food while I sleep. :) Plus, our kids will do better with just one of us away. Thankfully, I have a few Houston buddies that will keep me company as well. My best friend has even promised me sushi.

When I See You Smile

Yesterday was our final ultrasound and my IM was there to see her sweet baby on the screen. Her face was priceless. I hope she does not mind me blogging about her reaction, but I think it's so critical to explaining why surrogacy was for me.

I try to keep her updated through weekly emails with her baby's progress, through pictures, phone calls, emails, texts, anything I can think of to tell her how her baby is growing. Sometimes I get to talk to IF too, but this is all so new to him that I think it feels a bit "make-believe" as it did for my husband with our first. When IF got to feel her move and as he's seen things brought into the house, I think it's being more and more real for him. None of those updates can compare to watching your child on a screen. I think that was such a powerful moment for my IM. She already adores this little girl so much, but I think seeing her sweet puckered lips and her full cheeks on that screen makes it easier for her to imagine bringing her home.

We also ran around the hospital a bit and got her familiar with where I will be delivering and where to go when the big day comes. She will be the petite blonde flying through the halls followed by a tall, dark-headed man yelling, "E, wait!!"

Every ultrasound with this pregnancy has been amazing and special for me, but yesterday, my eyes were locked on my IM's face while hers were focused on that screen, absorbing every detail. We got an estimate that the baby weighs around 4 lbs., 4 oz. right now. She's got full cheeks and likes to suck her thumbs. Her hands stayed around her face almost the entire ultrasound. She also likes to breathe. The tech said not all babies do that at this point and some only do it for spurts, but Baby L is a breather! I hope that means her lungs are getting lots of practice (remember, I am not the one having to wake up to those squeals at night!) E sat there and cried happy tears and thanked me, repeatedly, for my role in this. I thanked her for the privilege and we both had a good moment of it hitting us that we have really done it. We're almost to the end and then their journey can begin.

Here's my latest belly shot. Really starting to fill out these shirts here lately! Oh, the update from my OB appointment: I am measuring at 32 weeks, which is great. (Little tidbit for those that aren't "in the know" but your belly should measure, in cms, according to your week. So, if you're 31 weeks, your belly should measure about 31 cms.) I've lost a pound, which is okay b/c it's due to the changes in my eating habits. We're not trying to put me on a restrictive diet or anything, just changing what's going in and making bites count. :)

Sweet Caroline

Just call me Caroline because I'm a little too sweet for my own good. My glucose test came back with borderline numbers so I've got to take it easy on the carbs, the sugars and up the protein. I also need to start exercising. This would not be such sucky news except that I've been on exercise restriction this whole pregnancy and now, I'm 6 months pregnant and it's super hot in August and I cancelled my gym membership that I wasn't going to be able to use in the forseeable future. Alas, I will not be discouraged. I've got some pregnancy yoga videos and I can walk on the treadmill at home. My family will just have to leave me alone for an hour or so...hey, that might not be so bad! I am also anemic so I'll be adding Iron, twice a day, to my regimen of prenatals and Calcium (my mom has Osteoporosis so I have to take precautions since sweet little babies suck out all your nutrients!) That might be why I've been tired lately. I just chalked it up to working FT, running after 3 little ones and being pregnant in the summer. Who knew there was an excuse to my laziness! :)

Anyway, if you're a long-time lurker, first time commenter, get to it. How sweet it is to be loved by you. (I just had to throw that in!)

Sugar, Oh Honey, Honey

Hey everyone, it's me again! Back so soon? It's just that kind of a week. I haven't gotten results back from my glucose test but usually, no news is good news. I did have an OB check-up on Tuesday and everything's going well. I'm measuring right at 29 weeks like I should be so that's great. We did, finally, go over the results of the ultrasound I had back in June after the wreck. At that ultrasound, my placenta was low-lying. I've talked to a bunch of women that have had this and it almost always corrects itself as the uterus grows and the placenta moves away from the cervix. (Feel like you're in Biology class again?) If it doesn't, then we'll need to do a c-section as the placenta can cause a lot of bleeding if it's torn. No bueno. So, we are doing another ultrasound to check its position and be sure it's moved. The bonus is, E and maybe J, will get to come in for that ultrasound!! YAY! They have not been able to be at any of them and that bummed me out a little. I videoed some of them and put them on speaker with the others, but it's not the same as being live! I'm thrilled that they'll get this opportunity and optimistic about the placenta issue so no worries there.

So, that's my update for the week! I'll post a belly shot as soon as I get some make-up on and my hair tamed. This heat has been brutal and I feel like I'm always sweating. Ick!

Oh what a beautiful morning...

On Wednesday, we will be 29 weeks pregnant. The time really has flown by and I almost don't notice it until I realize it's time for another belly shot. My family and I are going to visit my IPs this weekend. I'm so excited about this trip because they will get to feel Baby L move!!! I sent IM a video of my stomach, but it's kind of hard to see, so I can't wait for her and IF to be able to see their daughter's movements and to be able to feel her dance around in her little home away from home.

I'm also excited to see how baby L responds to their voices. We've been doing the Belly Buds for a few weeks now and I love to tell E&J how their baby responds. I think E's voice is soothing to her and she tends to kick and move in a more fluid motion when listening to the books her mom's recorded for her. When J's recording comes on, she gets a little livelier and her jabs are a little more excited. Maybe she already knows it's "fun daddy" time?? Either way, I hope to help reinforce that bond between her parents and her with the sounds of their voices. I have to remind my husband and children that it's "quiet time" when I'm playing the recordings to her so she can just focus on E&J's voices. Secretly, I like this time too b/c it allows me to read or just rest for about an hour without interruption! I ALMOST miss the PIO injections b/c I got an hour to myself on the heating pad after injecting...never thought I would say that.

So, we'll hit the road on Saturday morning and spend the day with my IPs. Sunday, we'll head back sometime around noon. My old co-worker's wife just had a baby so I want to snuggle up on him before we head home. He was 9 lbs., 13 oz. Ouch. The "biggest" baby I've ever had was 7lbs., 15 oz. and although she was my easiest delivery (they all were pretty easy), I can't imagine pushing another 2 lbs. out of there. So, baby L, if you're taking notes, grow nice and big and strong, but I wouldn't mind if you were kind of petite like your mama. ;)

Tomorrow, I have my 3 hour glucose tolerance test. I had some slightly elevated levels with my first daughter and had gestational diabetes. I learned a lot from that pregnancy and haven't had any issues with GD since then, but darn if I don't always fail the 1 hour test. So, I asked my OB if I could just skip right to the 3 hr test and she said that made sense. For those that are unfamiliar, this is a routine test where you drink something like flat orange soda or coke. You chug it within 10 mins., try not to throw it up and then you wait as your body freaks out about the amount of sugar you just scarfed down on an empty belly. Oh yes, you have to fast my dears. They draw your blood at the beginning and then three more times on the hour. I'm loading up on water today b/c it sucks if you're slightly dehyrated and they have to go hunting for veins. I usually pass the time reading a book or something. At the end of the test, I head over and scarf as much protein as I can and go on about my merry way. My IM might be joining me for this appointment if she can get away. She's been busy with the new house and getting some classes out of the way that she needs to take. (I don't think there will be as much time for that after the baby. I think she knows this all too well!) So, I've also made plans to eat lunch with a friend in case IM can't make it.

That's really all that's going on here. It's hot. Like, super hot and humid and I sweat just getting into the car hot. I've gained 20 lbs. and I wasn't Olive Oil to begin with so I feel like I'm in a fat suit, in summer. So, if you see me walking around and I'm huffing and puffing, don't pay me much mind, I'm just gestating a human. :)

6 months!

Happy 6 mths to E&J! Your little girl is just 3 months away! :)

In just a few months, we'll be meeting baby L. I had a pregnancy dream last night that I had her and E&J never showed up. I was waiting for them and I finally asked Al, my husband, if he had called them and he said, "Oh, whoops! I forgot!" It was a pregnancy nightmare!!! :) Thankfully, that's not how the real delivery will go! In fact, DH won't even be there. My dear friend, Amy, has offered to take me to the hospital so my family can stay on their routine with school, daycare and work. She lives a few blocks over and our girls go to the same school so we'll be all set with bags packed that last month. E&J are about 3.5 hrs away from where I'll be delivering and I'm about an hour away. By the time I get a room and get all checked in and hooked up, they'll likely be driving up to the hospital and listening to elevator music! I can see E taking the stairs though...running through the hospital saying, "My baby's coming!!!!!!!" :) She is so very excited and it's cute to see her looking at baby clothes and gear.

In other "Surrogacy" news...two funny things have happened to me lately. While walking up to Cherry Berry, a local DIY yogurt place, I overhead a conversation about surrogacy that went something like this:

Boy: So, you're going to have twins?
Girl: Well yeah, probably. I mean, with surrogacy, you put like four up there to help the odds and stuff so I'll probably get pregnant with twins or something.

(Insert giant eye roll here) If it hadn't been 9:30PM after a long movie with my daughter and had my child not run off to talk to a friend of hers, I might've stopped to educate a bit. Hopefully, this girl is just in the beginning stages of researching surrogacy and hasn't actually talked to a clinic or RE yet. Otherwise, she would know that is NOT how you do it in surrogacy. Or not how you should, at least.

The second experience I had was at Freebirds in Pearland last night. (Best burrito place, ever. Don't come at me with your Chipotle love because I'm not feeling it) My burrito makers are talking about someone who was going to be doing surrogacy and I had some minutes to spend this time so I said, "It's so funny that you're talking about it surrogacy because I'm a surrogate." One burrito making guy came around the counter and rubbed my belly. It's a good thing that strangers rubbing my belly doesn't bother me but it took me by surprise! He then asked, "How much are they paying you?" which is the question I always get in some form or another. The other girl said, "I hear you can make a lot of money doing that." I spent a little time answering their questions and they both wished me well with my baby-baking. The guy even wanted to know when I was due and asked if it was a girl or boy. :) It's interesting that surrogacy is getting more popular. I wish it was more accurate and positive buzz being spread, but I realized that I have the power to do that.

I've had at least a dozen people tell me, "Oh, I have a friend that's doing that" in the last 6 months and it's almost odd how commonplace it seems! Here I thought that people would be surprised to hear what I was doing, although I do get a lot of, "I've never met one of you!" comments from strangers. I think people don't always know what to say and that's okay. I'm giving them a glimpse into my world and what it's like and I'm happy to answer questions. It's part of being a surrogate.

Until next time, I'll leave you with our latest belly shot. :)

Just Another Day in Paradise

Hey y'all! I haven't blogged in a while and some of you were even sweet enough to notice!! A couple of you even emailed me which was really nice and made my day. Thank you! :)

So, we are now 23 weeks and 3 days! Can you believe this all started with two little embryos?? E&J are so excited and are preparing for their baby girl's arrival. (E, my IM, is busy buying things for her and J is busy thinking about being outnumbered by the ladies!)

I was lucky enough to spend a day with E&J and their family a couple of weeks ago. It was a whirlwind trip as I also had a baby shower and a surrogate dinner to attend (Tnot as formal as it sounds. There aren't any awards or speeches given out, just a bunch of ladies that are either about to be pregnant, are in the midst of a journey or have completed one having dinner and comparing stories. It's always a lunch or dinner because most of us are hungry!)

I dropped some friends off at the airport in Houston for a Vegas bachelorette party for my friend, Haley. I told them to drink one for me and then headed to Austin to my IPs' place for a visit. My IM met me with a huge hug and it was so good to see her. I've only seen her twice since transfer and it had been too long! She was so sweet to stock the house with pickles and snickerdoodles (two of my cravings) and made sure I had lots of fluffly pillows. I felt very spoiled. This trip was kid and husband free and though I missed them, it was nice to slow down and just be able to hang out with my IPs. Despite the hot, hot Texas weather, we ventured out for lunch, manicures and pedicures. This was definitely a treat and I went back to their house for a nap after meeting IF's little sister and her boys. She was a sweetheart and I can see why she and my IM are so close. Her youngest is my boy's age and they share a mutual love of video games so I had a nice visit with him Friday night.

Dinner was served (so yummy!!) after the guests arrived and we sat around visiting. IF's mother, 2 of his sisters and his childhood nanny were all in attendance and it was a great group. Everyone was incredibly nice to me, which was so great b/c I was sweating bullets wondering if they'd like me. Was I smart, funny, pretty, witty, tall, talkative, , and kind enough to carry their precious family member? I so wanted them to like me and instantly felt better once dinner started and it felt like I was amongst friends.

The next morning, the three of us had breakfast and then did a little shopping (Father's Day was the next day so I had some last-minute purchases to make) and then I had to say good-bye and headed out to the baby shower for my friend and his wife. This was followed by an amazing dinner with some great ladies and a drive home to my husband and kids who were glad to have me back. :) The house was in pretty good condition too and only one very minor injury! Great job, Dad!

We are so thankful to have things going so smoothly. I still feel great and besides being a little tired, I have no complaints. (Hey, I don't have to suck in anymore and everyone thinks my belly's cute now!)

I should mention that I am thankful for wonderful IPs. They have been so good to me and for every question and concern about the baby, there's been the same for me and I can't tell you how that makes me feel. I know this journey's intent was to bring a baby into the world for them, but I've watched too many surrogates being treated like a box that the IP's new toy came in. We go into surrogacy with no guarantees and we try not to put too many expectations on the relationship afterwards as no one can predict exactly how they will feel. The concern that my IPs have shown for my family and me shows what wonderful people they are and further confirms what great parents they would be. Every surrogate should be so lucky.

Four more months and they will have their baby L in their arms and I cannnot explain what that day will mean to me. I pick out presents for my husband and children and almost squeal as they open them wondering if they'll like what I've picked out. I plan for months in advance for birthday and Christmas presents because I take such joy in giving something and seeing someone's expression. This will truly be the epitome of giving a gift and the look on their faces will be such a joy to see. Hearing my IM talk about her baby girl with a look of love and wonder on her face after waiting years for her makes me want to push fast forward on the clock! Alas, these last few months are critical so we will fill that time with talking, dreaming and of course, shopping!

One of the most recent purchases my IM made was Belly Buds! I really want the baby to know her mom and dad's voices so they're busy making recordings of books so that I can play them to her. Check them out!

I'll leave you with our latest belly picture. I really need a haircut and some makeup but here I am!

Things I don't have to worry about

One of the perks of surrogacy is not having to worry about a lot of things. I loved expecting each of my children. I loved planning and dreaming and wondering what they would look like, smell like, feel like. I made plans for them in my head and space for them in my heart. With my youngest and our last, I knew it would be the last time I dreamed and planned for a child to take home. My husband and I agreed to have another child because we felt like we wanted just one more baby to complete our family and we were right. She perfectly complements our other two children and we adore them all.

So what is it like this time? Pregnancy and motherhood are filled with many good things. Here are some of those things I don't have to worry or think about this time. I am not knocking parenthood by any means, but the reason I look so carefree and rested is because I do not have the added stress of the following things this time:

Midnight feedings-Guess what!? After I have this baby, I will not have to get up every 3 hours to make sure she has eaten. I will not wonder how many ounces is right and I will not have to stalk the nurses to be sure they don't stick a pacifier in her mouth. :) All of that will be her mommy and daddy's experience to go through. I will sleep through the night, not have the baby monitor on and I will heal more quickly because of it.

Car seat arrangement-Fitting 2 booster seats and car seat in the middle of my mini-van is a tight squeeze, but we fit. However, I am thankful that no one is expected to have to sit in the third row. Can you imagine me trying to pull out the booster and moving the seat everytime, just to get a kid back there? No, thank you! I do not have to research car seats or pick out prints or decide which infant carrier to bring her home in. (I would love to see the car seat my IPs have picked out though!)

The nursery-My husband and I have always agreed on themes so it was quite easy for us to pick this out for our kids. However, the actual painting of the rooms, switching out of cribs for toddler beds and hanging of wall border was tedious. We enjoyed it but it is nice to not have to prepare our home and move it all around to bring another baby home. Adding a guest room to our house so we are ready for when they come visit sounds like fun though! :)

Daycare-Have you looked at the costs of daycare lately? I'm glad I only have 2 in daycare at a time. Our babysitter is AMAZING and she probably doesn't make any money off our kids because she's constantly buying them things. She's just like family, we couldn't be more blessed.

Parenting Decisions-buy babyfood or make it? Cloth or disposable diapers? Breast milk or formula? Dr. Brown's bottles or Avent? Bow or no bow? (The answer is always going to be, "Bow!") Crib or bassinet? Pears or Green Beans? Teething or Ear Infection?

The reason for my post today is not to complain about those parts of pregnancy/expecting. They are fun and exciting and they are the ways we pass 9 mths of anticipation while we wait for our little ones. I simply mean that I have had my turn and am able to pass the torch to another set of parents while I enjoy 9 months of growing a healthy baby. My friends and family keep asking how I'm feeling and I almost always answer with, "Great!" I am thankful for an easy pregnancy, a healthy baby and great IPs.

We had our OB appt. last Thursday and I was able to see my IM for the first time since transfer. It was a wonderful appointment and she and my OB got to visit and get to know one another. IM is going to suit up at delivery and bring baby Lera into the world all by herself. She will literally be able to say, "I brought you into this world, child!" Her heartbeat was nice and strong and she's an active little one. She was moving all over the place! We go back on June 7th for another ultrasound and peek at this little one.

I Enjoy Being a Girl

Well, we had our 6th ultrasound of the pregnancy and saw one sweet little healthy baby girl in there yesterday. She was measuring perfectly at 13 weeks, 6 days and had a heart rate of 147.

Naturally, my IPs were so excited to hear that their baby looked great and even more thrilled that we are 90% sure it's a girl. (Because there are always those surprise babies!) My OB had indicated that she thought it was a girl a few weeks ago in her office. It's always so neat to find out the gender. A huge package waiting to be unwrapped on Christmas morning! I found out with two of my three babies. The last baby was a surprise as we had one of each already. She was a girl. ;) Apparently girls like it in there as I am 3 for 4! I'm going to start calling it my loverly, frilly uterus. :)