Decisions (Part 1)

As you likely know if you've been following along, we had our regular 38-week check on February 7. While everything continued to look good with me and baby, the doctor suggested making a plan for induction. I was progressing well and she feels that conditions are favorable. There is minimal additional benefit to keeping him in at this point, given that he's 38 weeks. Also, 38 weeks is generally the endpoint when pregnancy-induced hypertension is involved. So we weren't totally shocked when the conversation took this direction.

That being said, I had spent a lot of time thinking about how I felt about going this route. While I respect everyone's choices and experiences in this arena, I was never aiming for a low- or no-intervention birth. I did my research and am ok with hospitals, most drugs, epidurals, and the like. However, I also know that one intervention often leads to additional interventions, and I did not want to start myself down a road that might end in events (such as an unplanned c-section) that would leave me wondering if they would have been necessary otherwise.

We discussed this with the doctor, and I felt like she was on the same page as me. She said she would like to avoid a c-section if possible, and I don't feel like this is an induction of convenience or has any other reason beyond medical precaution. My blood pressure is still fine (i.e., not consistently above the 140/90 cutoff) and all labs are still normal. Baby also looks fabulous and is growing well. But at this point, it was sort of like we were waiting for something to go awry--the primary concerns being pre-eclampsia and growth restriction. I don't have a crystal ball, so none of us can know whether these less-good-scenarios will come to pass or not. So in order to stay out in front of the situation and even maintain some semblance of control, we've opted for the induction now. Of course, if everything stayed fine, I could presumably go into labor on my own and start the whole process without intervention. However, if one of the higher-risk situations developed, I'd also be looking at induction (in the case of growth restriction) or even an unplanned or emergency c-section (in the case of pre-eclampsia, which can develop very suddenly). I watch Downton Abbey. I have no interest in being the next Lady Sybil. So, in a way, when we weigh all the situations, this route offers me one of the best shots at proceeding relatively slowly and delivering the way I'd like to. And if an urgent situation develops, then we make the best decision we can with the information we have at the time. While I have opinions and preferences and would like to be an active participant in this process, the "birth plan" is and always has been just to get baby out safely. I feel like having a rigid plan is the best way to ensure it all blows up in your face.

So I was prepared for that and am comfortable with the decision to proceed. I also feel like the doctor, BA, and I all came to it together. Here's what we weren't prepared for: after the conversation, the doc stepped out to call labor & delivery to see what the schedule looked like. When she came back, she said "how about tomorrow night at 8:30?" Were we free? Um, yeah, we're free. What might be on the calendar that would be an impediment? "Oh, sorry, we've got dinner with friends..." But I had been thinking maybe Monday or Tuesday. So we sat there, shell-shocked, for a little bit. After some time and some mini-freakouts, I think that on balance it's a good thing that we just go ahead and aren't spending 3 or 4 days anticipating. Really, we'd done pretty much everything and are as ready as one ever is (which is to say, not really), so here we go.

The general timeline: we are to report to the hospital at 8:30pm on Friday. What a way to spend a Friday night, right? I'll be admitted and they'll start the first phase of the induction, but we pretty much hang out and try to get some sleep overnight. Saturday morning they will see how things are progressing, and we'll go from there. My doctor, who will be on call on Saturday, expects baby some time during the day on Saturday. As much as one can predict these things.

That's pretty much long and boring and probably not of much interest to anyone, but I wanted to record the process--thanks for hangin' in. I'm auto-posting this one, so if you're reading, we're already at the hospital and will update when there are things to know. I think it will be a lot of waiting, so you're not missing much.

We will take any and all thoughts, prayers, wishes, good vibes, high fives, karmic vibrations, hugs from the universe or whatever your inclination for a safe and smooth process.

Le Petit Prince

In mid-January, I had a shower hosted by a gaggle of lovely ladies and wanted to share some photos before the next phase begins! This post can truly not do the event justice...it was so clear that so much time, thought, and effort went into the planning and execution and I'm still so touched and grateful. On top of the wonderful theme and details, it was also just a nice size and a wonderful mix of people from different chapters of my life that all blend seamlessly (isn't it great when that happens?). It was fun to visit and I also felt significant relief afterwards, as the gifts--which were overly generous to say the least--really helped me feel like I had finished out what I needed and was, for the most part, really prepared. 

sure, Grace Ann just casually hand-cut some silhouettes the night before. And yes, that's really me. 

hot chocolate bar and sweets (cake pops, cookies, and fruit tarts)

I mean, is that Pinterest-worthy, or what? Whenever I host a shower or wedding party, I always remember a piece of wisdom I was once given (by my dad, of all people)...and that's that while it may not be the biggest deal to you the host, or you may feel stressed during the planning, people always remember their own shower and it's often the only one they have. To be on the receiving end of one that was clearly orchestrated with such love and thoughtfulness and attention to detail--to what I would want and enjoy--was a special experience that I'll remember for a long, long time. The entire family is grateful to all who hosted and attended for helping us feel like baby C is already so loved (and swagged out). You guys are the bestest. 

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[And if you've read this far and are still frustrated that there's no real info about the actual baby (funny, I noticed traffic is WAY up today), that's because nothing is happening yet. I'm still sitting at home. Washing things and writing blog posts. One or two installments will be auto-posted tonight, starting at about 9pm CST. I know about half of you are probably hunkered down in a blizzard, so I'll do my best to keep the information coming. Stay safe and warm. We love you all and it has already been so fun to hear from people...we really, really appreciate your well wishes and good thoughts. Every single one. xo]

Brunch @ Blvd

This is not the post you're looking for. But I had a couple lined up, so I wanted to get them posted before the new arrival. Otherwise, I strongly suspect they'd never happen.

BA cleared his calendar last Sunday before the game, so we were looking for something fun to do. Within my limits. Which pretty much just means eating. A new restaurant just opened down the street from us, so we thought we'd check it out for brunch. It was their first brunch, but everything went smoothly and was fabulous. It wasn't crowded, though it might be in a few weeks when people get hip to it. 

{ blvd } 

nashville

The restaurant (formerly Cha Chah) was rehabbed and reopened by the same owner, Arnold Myint (of Top Chef..."fame"? "appearance"?) A lot of it feels really similar in that they kept the same basic layout, but the vibe is pretty different. Notably, they have a pretty large market-type area in the front that had interesting snacks to grab, assorted jams and such, and--a very good idea given the proximity to Belmont--a grab-n'-go section with wraps and salads. I was also intrigued by the large display of macarons at the host's check-in table. I must go back to investigate. 

Seriously. And this doesn't even include the fun cocktail side of the menu. Let me just say: mimosas by the carafe.

We started with a breakfast appetizer--an excellent concept--from the a la carte menu. The croissant came with a whipped vanilla butter and apricot jam. Magnifique. 

I went for the waffle. The bacon is chopped and is in the topping with the cinnamon apples (slow clap).

BA's huevos rancheros.

Bottom line: We recommend and will definitely be back. I hope they do well, but I also hope it doesn't get so buzzed-about that it's really crowded. We went at about 12:30 and it was nice to just be able to walk in and sit down, as well as hang around for a bit after the meal. When we go out to eat in the neighborhood, we usually mosey down to the 12th Ave side, rather than the Belmont side. However, this will be a very strong draw. I definitely foresee strolling bebe down that way for Sunday Funday 1/2-price bottles of wine. Just sayin'.

So check it out. 

Mini-Maddie

A while back, I saw a pin on Pinterest that featured a site that makes custom stuffed doggies. I pinned it on one of the baby boards, and checked out the site. Because it was so close to Christmas, they had a long wait, especially for orders that didn't need to be delivered in time for the holidays. So I joined the queue and promptly forgot all about it. 

A few weeks ago, I got an email that Madigan was ready to be created (I had to submit each dog separately; I'm still waiting for Abita to get called up). I entered in her info and uploaded a few pics. Not too long after that, look who showed up in the mail!

I think it's a pretty good likeness! While real Maddie was very interested (probably because it's made of wool), they'll go in the nursery for C to enjoy later. I think it's pretty cool that he'll have toy versions of his puppy playmates. Due to the dogs', shall we say, diverse heritage, it would be impossible to find their lookalikes in a toy store.

You can find more information about custom doggies on their website: Shelter Pups

They're not cheap, especially for a stuffed toy, but each pup comes with a tag that has a code for "rescue points," which you can donate to one of over 5000 authorized SPCA shelters. More on how they work here. Given that both our doggies are rescues, I felt more ok about spending that money on what will hopefully be a special toy and benefits other doggies in the process. 

Just wanted to share an idea that would make a great gift (for yourself or someone who has a special doggie). 

Most Important Part

Just clipped the cup holder to the stroller.



Also, I am posting this from my phone for the first time, as practice for The Hospital Post. Let me know if there seem to be problems.

Book Shower

Earlier in January, some lovely ladies from our research project got together and hosted a little shower. As we are all early childhood people, it only made sense for them to go with a children's book theme, which they executed with creativity and enthusiasm. 

All the guests brought a book for Baby C, and/or a dish to share. All the dishes tied in with a particular book. It was so fun to see everyone's creative ideas, and of course the food was tasty as well!

                                            

These custom cookies were done by the lovely lady who runs Dozen bakery here in Nashville. She makes all sorts of delicious things, and can do almost anything you can imagine for the custom decorated sugar cookies. Check out her website or Facebook page if you're in the market for something good-looking and good-tasting (made with local, organic ingredients to boot)

Obviously I had to eat everything. But the best part was coming home with a basket full of classic books to jump start C's library (and the shelf on which they'll be displayed). When the child turns out to be brilliant, we'll know that we can thank the Peabody team for giving him an early start at geniusing. 

If you want a list of the books that the early childhood experts deem gift-worthy, I can add that in too.

Banana Oatmeal Muffins

I saw this recipe on Pinterest on the precise day that I needed to use up some bananas that were a wee past their prime, so here you go.

I made a few modifications, so will reproduce here for your benefit. They turned out well, and are a good snack with less guilt, as they contain no sugar or flour. I'd say they are one of those things that are just good to have around, or would even be good to take to a new mom--they are easy to grab at any time of day, and oatmeal is said to help with milk supply. Who knew?

These are not particularly sweet, which I liked--muffins are often dessert masquerading as a healthy snack these days--but use sugar or more honey if you find them lacking.

Banana Oatmeal Muffins
makes 12 muffins

2.5 cups cooking oats
2 very ripe bananas
1 cup plain lowfat Greek yogurt (I used one container of Fage 2%)
2 eggs
1/2 cup honey
1 tsp vanilla
1 tsp cinnamon
2 tsp baking powder
1 tsp baking soda

Preheat oven to 400 degrees and prepare a muffin tin.

Pulse the oats in a food processor for about 10 seconds.

Add the rest of the ingredients to the food processor and blend until well mixed and the oats are smooth.

At this point, feel free to add chocolate chips or anything you'd like to dress it up a little bit.

Fill muffin tins with batter and bake for about 16-18 min or until a toothpick comes out clean.

Ta-da! Easy peasy.