9 weeks today and with each passing day I feel more excited. More excited about reaching a place I no longer feel sick, reaching a place the baby is in the 'safe zone,' reaching a place I can buy goodies at babies r us and not feel like I'm jumping the gun, reaching a place I can feel the baby, hold the baby, kiss the baby, etc. This week I have been taking it as easy as possible which means a lot of movies for big sister, but she doesn't seem to mind. I am anxiously awaiting our follow up ultrasound and hope all this laying around pays off.
This week the baby is 1 inch long or the size of a large grape. It hard to believe that after only 9 weeks, (4 of which you didn't even know you were pregnant), the baby already has all basic pysiology in place so at this point its mostly about gaining weight. All joints are working. The baby can make a fist and even start sucking it's thumb. Teeth are also forming below the gum line this week. The heart is already divided into four chambers, but valves form this week (let's hope baby takes after mom in the heart valve department). There is nothing like the creation of a baby to confirm your belief in God. It truly is amazing. "For you created my inmost being; you knit me together in my mother's womb." Psalm 139:13
We love you little baby, hang on tight!
Sunday, January 27, 2013
Wednesday, January 23, 2013
Beautiful Baby
It's not everyday you get to witness a miracle, but seeing your baby for the first time is definately one of those times. Today Tim and I saw baby Tatum for the first time. It was such a relief and blessing to see the heart beat flashing (179 bpm). The room was cool with a big screen that projected the image. Tim and I were joking that next time we will bring our popcorn and Junior Mints. The tech told us that baby was a good size, with a strong heart beat and looked good. Great news! Due date is officially September 1, 2013.
While the baby looks great, they did see something called Subchorionic Hematoma which was described as a hemorrage or blood clot between the uterus and placenta. This does not harm the baby, but it is a risk for miscarriage so I have been given strict instructions of rest. Only about 1% of pregnancies have this condition. Usually the clot passes on it's own which looks like spotting. In the picture the blood is pooled above the baby (it looks like a black line)It was scary leaving the office to hear the tech tell the nurse "Make sure Dr. Flora sees this today." Dr. Flora did call me tonight and sounded very optimistic. She said if I take it easy I shouldn't have anything to worry about. Shes doing another ultrasound in two weeks (so that's the bright side...I get extra ultrasounds) No parent wants to hear any negative information, so of course I was upset, but seeing the baby healthy out weighed any negative. This baby is Hannah's sibling remember and I'm sure equally as strong. Hannah fought her way through many difficult situations and has always amazed and proven the nah sayers wrong. There were days I was told Hannah could be retarded, not talk, not hear, etc, so I have learned to bet on my babies because they are tough cookies. I know this baby will hold on, because as Hannah says "He's got Mommy, Daddy, Baby in his hands." We are so greatful God has blessed with with our 2nd beautiful miracle.
In the picture on the left is the head. The tech also pointed out the elbows and knees (looks like 4 little stubs sticking out). And in this pic, baby looks like he/she is waving so it's my favorite (although it kinda looks like there are only 3 fingers, but whose counting.)
While the baby looks great, they did see something called Subchorionic Hematoma which was described as a hemorrage or blood clot between the uterus and placenta. This does not harm the baby, but it is a risk for miscarriage so I have been given strict instructions of rest. Only about 1% of pregnancies have this condition. Usually the clot passes on it's own which looks like spotting. In the picture the blood is pooled above the baby (it looks like a black line)It was scary leaving the office to hear the tech tell the nurse "Make sure Dr. Flora sees this today." Dr. Flora did call me tonight and sounded very optimistic. She said if I take it easy I shouldn't have anything to worry about. Shes doing another ultrasound in two weeks (so that's the bright side...I get extra ultrasounds) No parent wants to hear any negative information, so of course I was upset, but seeing the baby healthy out weighed any negative. This baby is Hannah's sibling remember and I'm sure equally as strong. Hannah fought her way through many difficult situations and has always amazed and proven the nah sayers wrong. There were days I was told Hannah could be retarded, not talk, not hear, etc, so I have learned to bet on my babies because they are tough cookies. I know this baby will hold on, because as Hannah says "He's got Mommy, Daddy, Baby in his hands." We are so greatful God has blessed with with our 2nd beautiful miracle.
In the picture on the left is the head. The tech also pointed out the elbows and knees (looks like 4 little stubs sticking out). And in this pic, baby looks like he/she is waving so it's my favorite (although it kinda looks like there are only 3 fingers, but whose counting.)
Saturday, January 19, 2013
8 Weeks
Anyone order a Martini lately? Well, I obviously haven't, but if you have, check out the size of that olive because that is how big our baby is this week. I can't tell you how good it feels to make it to week eight. I remember my doctor with Hannah told us that in his opinion eight was actually a bigger milestone than 12 because once they can confirm a heartbeat, the baby is well on its way to a happy healthy life. My brother asked me, "So when does the baby start to have a heart beat?" Actually, they say by 18 days after conception the heart is beating it's just difficult to hear at that point, but its there.
So what is baby up to? This week baby is the size of a green olive. Fingers and toes are starting to form. Ears and nose are more prominent. Lets hope he/she takes after Hannah in the nose department and not mommy. Upper lip is formed which sounds weird to be excited about, but lips and palates are something we keep on our prayer list in this family. Palate comes in week 10 so keep praying. Mini muscles are developed so the baby is actually constantly moving its arms and legs, but I won't be able to feel him/her for another few months.
What's new with Big Sister? Hannah had a big week. When she was little, her left eye was noticeably smaller than her right (but equally as beautiful). As she has grown it seems to have gotten better, but the doctor was worried and wanted her checked out by an Ophthalmologist. Hannah did amazing and long story short, he saw no problems! Vision is perfect! She had to wear these cheap paper sunglasses like the kind you get at a three D movie for 24 hours because of the drops they put in her eyes. Um ya, I'm sorry, did I mention she is 2? Fat chance she is keeping those on for 24 seconds let alone 24 hours. So we sat in the dark all day, but it worked out fine. Hannah also is on day 4 of potty training. She is about 90/10 in her success rate and we are so proud of her. She really picked it up fast and seems to be enjoying her success as well. There is only room on the changing table for one in this house.
How's Mommy? This week the nausea is kicking in more. It seems to be the worst in the afternoon 1-4 and then again in the middle of the night. I am very thirsty all the time and pretty tired, but getting more excited each day. Our first appointment in on Monday and our first ultrasound is Wednesday. I am so excited to see the baby I just can't wait.
So what is baby up to? This week baby is the size of a green olive. Fingers and toes are starting to form. Ears and nose are more prominent. Lets hope he/she takes after Hannah in the nose department and not mommy. Upper lip is formed which sounds weird to be excited about, but lips and palates are something we keep on our prayer list in this family. Palate comes in week 10 so keep praying. Mini muscles are developed so the baby is actually constantly moving its arms and legs, but I won't be able to feel him/her for another few months.
What's new with Big Sister? Hannah had a big week. When she was little, her left eye was noticeably smaller than her right (but equally as beautiful). As she has grown it seems to have gotten better, but the doctor was worried and wanted her checked out by an Ophthalmologist. Hannah did amazing and long story short, he saw no problems! Vision is perfect! She had to wear these cheap paper sunglasses like the kind you get at a three D movie for 24 hours because of the drops they put in her eyes. Um ya, I'm sorry, did I mention she is 2? Fat chance she is keeping those on for 24 seconds let alone 24 hours. So we sat in the dark all day, but it worked out fine. Hannah also is on day 4 of potty training. She is about 90/10 in her success rate and we are so proud of her. She really picked it up fast and seems to be enjoying her success as well. There is only room on the changing table for one in this house.
How's Mommy? This week the nausea is kicking in more. It seems to be the worst in the afternoon 1-4 and then again in the middle of the night. I am very thirsty all the time and pretty tired, but getting more excited each day. Our first appointment in on Monday and our first ultrasound is Wednesday. I am so excited to see the baby I just can't wait.
Sunday, January 13, 2013
7 weeks
Today T3 (Tater Tot Two) is 7 weeks. He/She has now grown to the size of a raspberry. I love how in early pregnancy the baby is always compared to fruit. It makes every trip to the grocery store happy because I pass the items and think of the little miracle growing inside of me. My first Doctor's appointment is one week away and I am getting very anxious for it. I know that God has a plan for our family and whatever is meant to be will be, but I already feel so connected and in love with this new little tadpole that I so desperately want to hear that everything looks good. This week the baby will develop its hands and feet. The brain, heart, pancreas and liver are also continueing to grow larger and stronger. As for big sister, she had her two year check up last week and is 25 lbs (which is light for her age) and 33 1/2 inches (which is an average height).
Monday, January 7, 2013
I'm Baaaaaaack!
Let me take you back in time. January 5th circa 2012, Hannah turned one and I said farewell to my blogging days. Truth is, this whole blog got started so family and friends who didn't live in Northern California (aka all our family and friends) could stay caught up with Hannah. What? Hannah was born in Northern California? I know wierd, sometimes I forget too. Tim and I just celebrated 4 years of marriage and over dinner at the Summit House we chated about how crazy the last four years have been: 5 moves, 12 job changes, bought a house, three surgeries, 10 nights spent in hospital beds, and two kids. Yes, you heard me correctly, I said TWO! Surprise, Hannah is going to be a BIG sister! Okay maybe it's not a surprise because anyone who reads this knows I would never spill this news in a blog post. But either way, Tim and I are so beyond happy to bring a new little Tatum into this world. I found out on the 21st and only shared my secret with Hannah. I wanted to surprise TIm with the best Christmas present ever and surprise I did. On Christmas morning, TIm opened a box with a shirt that said big sister. It took him a few seconds to take it in. Auntie Mimi (Jamie) was behind him and started crying. Granny (NE), Grandpa, and Uncle Tyler (visiting from London for the first time in a year) were all in the room to watch Tim get the news. It made for a wonderful Christmas morning and is truly something to be thankful for. I am only 6 weeks, which puts the due date around the begining of September (won't get the offical date until I go to the doctor in 2 weeks.) I can't wait to see our baby growing and hear the precious heartbeat.
Hannah gets it as much as a two year old can. She goes around telling strangers "Mommy, Daddy, Baby!" If you ask her where the baby is she points to my breast (we are still working on this one, but close enough). She changes her mind daily if it is going to be a boy or a girl.
I'm calling it....Girl (just sayin, moms know these things.)
Big sister Hannah is doing great. She just turned two and had a Sesame Street party. She talks so much. Her favorite things are having parades while playing musical instruments, laying in bed at night with mommy, trips to the park, Ne, Bella Dog, Mac and Cheese, Pancakes, babies, playing toys, mommy and daddy dance parties, getting the mail, Disneyland, and going for walks. She is such a happy, fun, smart, sweet, beautiful little girl and I can't wait to see what baby #2's personality will be like. My greatest hope for them is that they can be built in best friends for life.
At 6 weeks, 1 day, baby2 is the size of a blueberry. This week the head is growing rapidly. Brain cells are generated at the rate of 100 cells per minute. Also this week, arm and leg buds begin to sprout and mouth and tongue form. I am feeling pretty good. More tired than usual and a few waves of nausea. I feel truly blessed to be the mommy to two amazing miracles. There is no greater joy in my life. So welcome back and enjoy the ride, because this mommy of 2 will be blogging for the next year and eight months.
Sunday, January 8, 2012
A Letter for my Little
I started this blog when we were living in Northern California. Tim and I were lonely and so sad that family and friends would not be around to watch Hannah grow. My blog became not only a way to share her life with you, but it was also a fun and therapeutic hobby for me. But, all good things must come to an end so I am leaving you with one final post. I couldn’t think of anything more fitting than a letter to my precious girl. Thank you for taking the time to read my ramblings, catch up on Hannah, and participate in her journey of life. Hannah, don’t you worry, Mommy also has and will continue to create your scrapbook, memory book, life calendar book, and video footage so you are covered little one. And for my loyal readers, when I shared with some of you that I was ending this blog, many of you asked me not to, commenting on how much you enjoyed it. So to you, I say, do not fret, if and when baby # 2 is on the way, I will pick up where I left off. After all, I am a second child and it would not be fair if they didn’t receive the same treatment Hannah did. So this is not goodbye, but see you later. Don’t delete TatumFamilyNews from your favorites just yet because I will be back. Thank you all for loving, supporting, spoiling, and caring for Hannah. She is truly a blessed little girl.
My Sweet Hannah Grace on your first birthday,
These past 12 months you have brought more joy to Mommy and Daddy than we can express. You are our little miracle and greatest blessing. Sure there were days I wondered if I would ever feel rested again, but looking back I can’t believe how fast the time has passed. It feels like yesterday you were simply a prayer and a dream that I wondered would ever come true. Then you grew in my tummy and I can so easily remember feeling you move and wondering when I would meet you. The day you were born is so clear in my mind and the memories of January 5, 2011 always bring a smile to my face. But it has been 365 days whether I believe it or not and I have a one year old. In the life of a one year old, this past year has been a roller coaster for you. You moved from San Jose to Orange County. You have been seen by six pediatricians, four neonatologists, three plastic surgeons, two ear nose and throat specialists, an orthodontist, neurologist, social worker and countless nurses. You have undergone two surgeries requiring anesthesia, and have spent four nights in a hospital (six if you count your birth). And don’t worry Mommy never left your side. Through these times you have demonstrated bravery and strength. In your first year you have learned to explore the world. You rolled over, sat up, crawled, fed yourself, babbled, waved, clapped, pointed, understood simple commands and words, smiled, and laughed. You have brought more joy into your daddy and my life then we could even put into words. Some of your favorite things to do this past year include: be with Mommy, look at books, point to pictures, open cupboards, put things in containers, make farting noises, splash in the bathtub, watch Mickey Mouse Clubhouse, play chase and play with toys. You love dogs, baby dolls, balls, music, food, and being silly. You dance anytime you hear music, look to Mommy for reassurance, get into anything and everything, and without fail smile at me with your arms raised up each and every morning and that, my sweet angel is worth the world to me. You are complemented daily on your beautiful big brown eyes, squishy cheeks, and precious smile. You are curious, smart, stubborn, passionate about your wants, lovable, sweet, beautiful, strong, fun, silly, and brave. So if there is ever a time in your life you feel down or in need of encouragement, read this letter and remind yourself that you are all of these things and always have been. From the minute I held you in my arms, I knew you were one of a kind. If you can do all this in one year of life, I am eager to see what God has in store for the rest of your life. You are my sweet angel, and no one loves you as much as mommy. No matter what you do, say, think or feel, I will always be here for you standing by your side and proud to be your mommy. There is no greater blessing. So in the words of Tim McGraw, “Go on take on this whole world, but to me you’ll always be my little girl.”
I love you and Happy Birthday
Mommy
My Sweet Hannah Grace on your first birthday,
These past 12 months you have brought more joy to Mommy and Daddy than we can express. You are our little miracle and greatest blessing. Sure there were days I wondered if I would ever feel rested again, but looking back I can’t believe how fast the time has passed. It feels like yesterday you were simply a prayer and a dream that I wondered would ever come true. Then you grew in my tummy and I can so easily remember feeling you move and wondering when I would meet you. The day you were born is so clear in my mind and the memories of January 5, 2011 always bring a smile to my face. But it has been 365 days whether I believe it or not and I have a one year old. In the life of a one year old, this past year has been a roller coaster for you. You moved from San Jose to Orange County. You have been seen by six pediatricians, four neonatologists, three plastic surgeons, two ear nose and throat specialists, an orthodontist, neurologist, social worker and countless nurses. You have undergone two surgeries requiring anesthesia, and have spent four nights in a hospital (six if you count your birth). And don’t worry Mommy never left your side. Through these times you have demonstrated bravery and strength. In your first year you have learned to explore the world. You rolled over, sat up, crawled, fed yourself, babbled, waved, clapped, pointed, understood simple commands and words, smiled, and laughed. You have brought more joy into your daddy and my life then we could even put into words. Some of your favorite things to do this past year include: be with Mommy, look at books, point to pictures, open cupboards, put things in containers, make farting noises, splash in the bathtub, watch Mickey Mouse Clubhouse, play chase and play with toys. You love dogs, baby dolls, balls, music, food, and being silly. You dance anytime you hear music, look to Mommy for reassurance, get into anything and everything, and without fail smile at me with your arms raised up each and every morning and that, my sweet angel is worth the world to me. You are complemented daily on your beautiful big brown eyes, squishy cheeks, and precious smile. You are curious, smart, stubborn, passionate about your wants, lovable, sweet, beautiful, strong, fun, silly, and brave. So if there is ever a time in your life you feel down or in need of encouragement, read this letter and remind yourself that you are all of these things and always have been. From the minute I held you in my arms, I knew you were one of a kind. If you can do all this in one year of life, I am eager to see what God has in store for the rest of your life. You are my sweet angel, and no one loves you as much as mommy. No matter what you do, say, think or feel, I will always be here for you standing by your side and proud to be your mommy. There is no greater blessing. So in the words of Tim McGraw, “Go on take on this whole world, but to me you’ll always be my little girl.”
I love you and Happy Birthday
Mommy
Hot Diggity Dog!
Hot Diggity Dog! Hannah had a wonderful day at her first Birthday Party. We had a Minnie Mouse theme and loved celebrating with loved ones. The room turned out better than I expected with the help of Granny, Nana, and Auntie Laura. There were beautiful pink flowers, "Hannah" confetti, Minnie Mouse decor, and lots of balloons that Hannah enjoyed. Hannah wore an adorable pink tutu and personalized shirt, with Minnie Mouse ears that she kept on at least long enough for a few pictures. We had sandwiches, fruit, pasta salad, chips, and a very yummy cake made with love by Auntie (although Hannah still was not a fan). She did enjoy eating the pasta salad and fruit. When Hannah first came into her party room she instantly noticed the balloons which made me happy because I think she really did have fun and know it was all for her. We lucked out with a very beautiful warm sunny day and had a great turn out of loved ones. Now we just need to find a place to store all her toys.
The Birthday Girl
The Birthday Girl
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