We are home from the hospital. We got home Saturday around lunchtime. The surgery itself went really well and seems to be a success. Without too many details, Ethan's boy parts were totally hidden under scar tissue and were not even visible. The risk of infection was huge because of this, so we're glad this could be corrected so quickly.
All the nurses and staff were great and took very good care of us while we were staying at the hospital. Ethan does have a lot of swelling right now. The doctor told us to give it about a week for it to go down. If it's still swollen and the boy parts are "hiding" under the swelling, we'll have to see the doctor sooner than our 3 week post-op appointment and more surgery might be needed. We are praying that the swelling goes down and things return to how they should be.
He seems to have twinges of pain here and there but the infant Tylenol seems to help alleviate that. He's eating very well (did I mention he's gained 3 pounds since he was born - 1 month ago!!!!!). He's also urinating much better than before so for that we are thankful!
Please continue to pray for his healing and that no more surgery would be needed. He's definitely a trooper and we are so blessed to have him in our lives! Thank you for your prayers. We have definitely felt them during this time!
Sunday, February 28, 2010
Ethan Update - Home!
Thursday, February 25, 2010
Ethan Update - Surgery
Ethan turns one month old tomorrow - hard to believe! Time sure has gone fast. I wanted to give you all an update on Ethan. He is going to be having surgery tomorrow at Children's Hospital. We noticed about 2 weeks ago that his circumcision was looking a little off and wasn't looking like it should. We did everything that we were supposed to and followed the doctor's instructions to a "T" because of the complications we had with Eli and how he had to have surgery at 6 months old. We didn't want that to happen to Ethan! Well, Ethan is having complications, but much different than what Eli dealt with.
We saw our family doctor last week and he got us in to see one of the Urologist at Children's 2 days later (that in itself is amazing as it usually takes weeks to get in there!). We saw the urologist and he was great! He was very nice and knew exactly what needed to be done when he saw Ethan. Ethan's circumcision has "gone bad" so to speak. He is urinating "inside" a pocket that was kind of created during the adhesion of the circumcision. So, instead of urinating outside like normal, he goes inside first and then it makes its way out. Definitely not good. Normally, revisions are not done until the child is at least 6 months old, but because of the big risk of infection and the problems it could pose, he got us on the surgery schedule this week (tomorrow). It's definitely been a whirlwind of activity and planning, but through it all, God is good!
Eli will be staying with some family during the day tomorrow while Vince and I are at the hospital. Because of Ethan's young age, he'll be staying overnight for observation. I'll be staying with him overnight since I'm still breastfeeding and will be discharged in the morning on Saturday sometime.
His surgery is scheduled for 11:55 tomorrow. It should take about 30 minutes or so. I know he's in good hands, and we couldn't wish for anything more with being at the best Children's Hospital in the country. It's just still hard to hand your child over as they go under the anesthesia. We covet your prayers at this time and pray for a positive outcome for the surgery!
I'll keep you all updated after the surgery tomorrow.
Monday, February 15, 2010
Ethan's 3 Week Update
Well, its' hard to believe that Ethan is almost 3 weeks old! Time has been flying and so much has been going on in our little guy's life!
Things have been crazy busy, and pretty much non-stop since Ethan came home! Eli has been a GREAT big brother and has loved having his baby brother home. He always wants to kiss Ethan and give him hugs and hold him. He does like to poke poke poke on Ethan's head, so we're working on that :-)
Ethan came home with some slight jaundice that got worse while he was home. So, we had a home health nurse coming to our house every day for 3 days to get his bloodwork done and sent to the lab. We also had him on the Bili-blanket through a medical supply company. He was on that 24/7 (with the exception of his diaper changes and feedings). Thankfully, after 4 days, he was cleared to take the Bili-blanket off and didn't have to have the daily labs done. He still has some slight jaundice, but he's out of the "danger zone", so we are thankful for that.
He's a great eater, and nurses pretty much every 2 hours. Makes for a tiring night, but I know he's getting the best that he can! He's so alert and constantly looking around and checking out his surroundings. And of course, the dogs are mesmerized by him. Mia (our newer dog) is so good with him. She is constantly checking on him and making sure he's ok. Whenever he starts crying, she's right there making sure things are in order (like now as I check this email!).
It's definitely been an adjustment getting in a routine with 2 kids! Vince has been a lifesaver being home with me these past 3 weeks. He goes back to work on Thursday night, so I'm already starting to get into panic mode, but we'll get through it! It was bound to happen eventually ;-) I'm recovering well from my c-section and feeling pretty good most days. Still somewhat sore here and there, but that's to be expected!
We are so blessed to have Ethan in our lives and even now can't imagine our lives without him! Our family is complete and I love all my boys!!
Thursday, January 28, 2010
Welcome to the World Ethan!
I am so happy to let you all know that Ethan is here!! He wasn't due until February 9, and we had a planned c-section scheduled for February 4th, but Ethan decided to make an appearance even earlier! On Tuesday, January 26, I started having contractions at work. I was timing them, and they were about 4-7 minutes apart, depending on the moment. So, they weren't totally consistent at first, but then they started getting a little more consistent. I was having back pain as well and was just already so uncomfortable and in pain. So, I called my doctor's office and they told me to head to the hospital just to get checked out and see what was going on.
So, I head home a little after 3:00pm, have Eli get picked up by our sister-in-law who was actually shopping down the road from us, and we made our way to the hospital. We got to the hospital at 3:52pm. Of course, as soon as we get to the hospital, my contractions pretty much stop! But we got checked out and I was 3cm dilated and thinning, so the doctor asked me if I wanted to have a baby that day - of course I said yes!
So, we got all set up for my c-section and got everything in place. Talked with anesthesia, got the bag out of the car and got the camera ready. I walked to the OR and got my spinal, and was ready to go! By 6:10pm, Ethan Michael Turner was born!! It was a very uncomplicated c-section, and things couldn't have gone more perfect.
Ethan was born weighing 8 lbs, 15 oz, 21" long. Good thing I didn't make it to my scheduled date or my due date - he would have been huge! He has the blondest hair - and so fuzzy! He's PERFECT!
I'm recovering really well from my c-section and haven't had to take much pain medicine at all. Walking around and getting around my room pretty well. Ethan is doing really well too. He's nursing like a champ and is a little chunky monkey - I love his rolls! He will have to have his hearing test done again tomorrow as he failed in one of his ears this morning. He failed in both ears yesterday. They said that was pretty normal, especially with c-section babies. We're praying that he passes the test tomorrow and won't need any further follow up.
We should be getting out of the hospital tomorrow. They'll take my staples out in the morning, test Ethan's hearing, and then hopefully we'll be on our way home. We've missed Eli during this whole time and can't wait to see him! He's in wonderful hands with Vince's brother and his family, so we couldn't have asked for anything better. I just want to get home so our whole family can be together!!
Here's some pictures of our newest member of the family!
YOU CAN SEE ALL THE PICTURES HERE.
Friday, January 22, 2010
When Will Baby Ethan Come?
Ok, so I know that I have a planned c-section scheduled for Thursday, February 4, BUT, I have a feeling (and a hope) that he will arrive before the c-section. SO, let's do something fun!! Let's have a fun survey. The person that is the closest in the 2 categories, Date of Birth and Weight/Height will win prizes!!!!
So, chime in - what day do you think Ethan will arrive and what will his height/weight be?
Leave me a comment! This will be fun!!
Morning Pictures
Here are some of the daily pictures I get from Vince of Eli, usually in the morning when he's eating breakfast! Gets me through the day!
His "Spooky" Face
His "Silly" Face
Elijahisms
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Today, Vince was in one room, and Eli was in the next room playing, and Vince called out to Eli and asked what he was doing, and Eli responded, "Checking My Email!" Really? So advanced!
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When I was cutting Eli's hair the other night, he got hair all over his arms and belly, and it was hilarious when he blurted out with a grin, "I Look Like Daddy!"
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Last night Eli was talking to Ethan (via my belly button), and he told him, "Come On Out Ethan. Come On! Come On!" I couldn't agree more little man!!
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Everytime Eli opens his new toy bench, he gets an excited look on his face and exclaims, "PRESENTS!!" So cute!
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Last night we had some of my birthday cake that Vince had made for me (a few days early just in case Ethan wants to come anytime soon), and Eli just kept singing "Happy Birthday To You Mommy." It was adorable. I got it on video for a while, so I'll be posting that soon.
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Everytime I ask Vince to scratch my back, Eli chimes in, "My Turn" - not his turn to have his back scratched, but his turn to scratch Mommy's back! What a sweetie!
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I was walking into the house down the walkway one day after work, and Eli was in his chair looking out the window, and he told Vince, "Here Comes Mommy & Ethan!" He's catching on!!
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This boy defintiely keeps us on our toes! I'm so thankful for the gift of Elijah in our lives. Looking forward to the funny antics that Ethan will have in the future - if he's anything like his big brother, we're going to have some fun times in our household!
Tuesday, January 19, 2010
My Big Boy!
So, Eli's hair was getting REALLY shaggy! We were going to let it grow, but it was getting in his eyes and just getting crazy! So, I took the clippers, sat him down, and went to town! First time I've cut his hair. Good thing is grows back I kept thinking as I was cutting it! BUT, I think it came out really cute. I even spiked it in the front like Daddy does, so Eli loves it! I think it's pretty cute too, except it makes him look like a bigger boy than he already is!!!
BEFORE
AFTER
SO SILLY!
BIG BOY!
CHEESE!
Tuesday, January 12, 2010
36 Weeks!
So, I have 22 days left until my scheduled c-section, which by the way, I really DOUBT I'm going to make it to! Ethan has flipped and is head down and has dropped into position. I'm uncomfortable ALL the time, and am sore and tired non-stop. So, for everyone's sake, I'm really hoping he comes before my c-section date (but not until AFTER my hair cut and pedicure on January 15th)!
There is still SO much to get done before Ethan's arrival. Here's just a sampling of what's on my to do list still:
*Bring down swing and nursing stuff from Attic (this will be Vince's job of course)
*Bring down carseat and bases and install in cars
*Set up pack-n-play in den, which needs to be re-arranged
*Finish putting away the Christmas decorations!!!
This is just a SMALL portion of things that need to get done. I also have to think about getting everything done at work as well. There isn't going to be anyone coming in and doing my job while I'm out. I have some people set up to do small tasks during the time that I'm out, but I'm trying to get everything set up and settled before I go out on leave. Can we say stressed?! UGH!
It really doesn't help that we were all sick last weekend - Eli had bronchitis and an ear infection, and Vince and I have been dealing with colds/asthma flare ups (Vince) and sinus crud. Perfect timing, huh?
JUST ONE OF THE LOADS OF LAUNDRY FOR ETHAN. MANY MORE TO COME!
So, I'm 36 weeks/9 months pregnant! Time has flown this pregnancy - I think it helps I've had Eli to keep me VERY occupied! I'm very sore and wobbling quite well these days! Each morning I make it into work, it's like everyone is surprised to see me - ha! Anytime now. We'll be celebrating my birthday dinner this weekend just in case we don't make it to my actual birthday on the 24th. Even our doctor doesn't think we'll make it to our c-section date. How reassuring :-)
Here's my most recent picture - I'm huge! (It's all baby, right?! He is a big boy)
My Hilarious Son!
Last night I was trying to get Eli to bed. He was having nothing to do with it. He just wanted to keep getting out of bed, and he really just wanted to sleep in Mommy's bed. Well, I kept telling him to lay down and go to sleep. And this was our conversation:
Me - "Eli, lay down and go to sleep."
Eli - "But Mommy, I CAN'T sleep."
Me - "Why can't you sleep?"
Eli - "I just can't sleep."
Me - "Well, you have to try."
Eli - "But I'm too sad to sleep. I can't sleep cause I'm sad."
Me - "Why are you sad?"
Eli - "I can't sleep in Mommy's bed."
Me - "Well, you have to sleep in your big boy bed tonight. Now, lay down and go to sleep."
Eli - "I can't sleep."
Me - "Yes, you can, go night night."
Eli - "I just had a big fart, I can't sleep."
Me - (laughing inside!!) - "Well, say excuse me, and then lay down and go to sleep."
Eli - "Cuse me"
Me - "Now go to sleep."
Eventually he went to sleep, but the things he comes up with sometimes! He's so funny!!!!!
Friday, January 08, 2010
Kohl's Deals!
I'm so excited about the deals that I got at Kohl's after Christmas during their clearance sale! I got a $25 Kohl's gift card in my stocking, so I was anxious to see what I could get! Boy, did I make out GREAT! Not only was everything already 60-70% off, but I also had an online coupon for an additional 20% off and FREE shipping!! Here's what I got with pictures and all!!
4 Pairs of Jumping Bean French Terry Pants - SO COMFY - For Eli
ORIGINAL PRICE - $12.00
CLEARANCE PRICE W/ EXTRA % OFF - $2.88 EACH
3 Christmas Towel and Oven Mitt Set
ORIGINAL PRICE - $9.99
CLEARANCE PRICE W/ EXTRA % OFF - $0.48 EACH
7 Christmas Kitchen Towels
ORIGINAL PRICE - $5.99 EACH
CLEARANCE PRICE W/ EXTRA % OFF - $0.29 EACH
3 Christmas Table Runners
ORIGINAL PRICE - $14.00 EACH
CLEARANCE PRICE W/ EXTRA % OFF - $0.72 EACH
Necklace w/ Matching Earrings
ORIGINAL PRICE - $14.99
CLEARANCE PRICE W/ EXTRA % OFF - $5.76
ORIGINAL PRICE FOR EVERYTHING W/ TAX & SHIPPING - $208.47
TOTAL FOR EVERYTHING W/ TAX - $24.28
AND, I still have $0.72 on my gift card! I LOVE bargain shopping!!
Wednesday, January 06, 2010
Good Heart
On the way to work this morning, I was listening to my iPod and the song "Good Heart" came on by Ernie Haase and the Signature Sound. I've heard the song here and there when listening to the album, but this morning I REALLY listened to the song, and I listened to it 3 times! And of course, I was bawling. Do you know how hard it is to drive in the dark, before 6am, crying? I straightened up my act and got to work in one piece, no worries. Anyway, as a parent, this is my heart's desire for Eli and for Ethan as well. I pray that they will have good hearts. Good hearts to serve God and listen to HIM when He speaks. Here are the lyrics, and then I found the group performing it on a YouTube clip.
After you're sleeping, I slip in your room,
and I kneel down at your side.
With my hand on your chest,
as you take each breath,
here’s what I pray for your life.
God, give this child a good heart.
God, give this child a good heart.
One that cares for the weak,
one that hears when You speak.
A heart that will make You smile.
God, give this child a good heart.
Lord, I keep thinking, how I’m still Your child,
even though I’m grown up now.
And we both know I need to pray this for me,
so tonight, I’m asking somehow.
God, give this child a good heart.
God, give this child a good heart.
One that cares for the weak,
One that hears when You speak.
A heart that will make You smile.
God, give this child a good heart.
One that cares for the weak,
One that hears when You speak.
A heart that will make You smile.
God, give this child a good heart.
Monday, January 04, 2010
Poor Kiddo
Well, our family is sick again! We woke up on New Year's Day, and we were all sick. Eli has the worse of it, then Vince, and then me, and I feel myself getting worse! Eli has an awful cough and is congested, but his nose is running like a faucet. He has been running a fever since Friday as well.
On Saturday afternoon, we asked Eli how he was feeling, and he said, "I'm Sick. Take me to the doctor." Boy this kiddo is smart! Then later on we asked him how he was feeling, and he said, "Like Crap!" HA HA HA! He's been having rough nights of sleep with constant wake-up times during the night and much rocking from Mommy with juice breaks throughout the night as well.
So, yesterday, Sunday, I took him to our doctor's office, after-hours-clinic. Poor guy has bronchitis and an ear infection. Not sure where it all came from, but we're all probably dealing with some form of bronchitis. Eli is on antibiotics for the week, so we are praying this gets cleared up by the weekend. Vince just emailed me and said that Eli was coughing a lot, and then afterwards said, "Daddy, I wanna feel better." We want you to feel better too little guy!!
