May 4th, 2009 - My 2nd time to hold Bobby...

Here is video of Bobby and I, on May 4th, 2009. This was the day I was discharged from the hospital. He remained there, in the NICU for 8 more days after this was taped. I held Bobby for the first time the night he was born. I was doped up, and could barely keep him in my arms. We had to wait 4 days for me to hold him again. It was the longest wait ever! If you can stand to watch the entire thing (I thought I had uploaded the shorter version), you'll hear us talk about him having brown eyes, instead of blue. We were totally wrong there! Ha! This was filmed with Bob's sister's Flip camera. We finally got it imported onto our computer this weekend, once we had our own Flip camera (we needed the software to do so...).

Enjoy!

April 29, 2009

I really have wanted to document the day leading up to Bobby's delivery... more for our family's memory and records. This day was about as chaotic as they come, and it inevitably led to the birth of our beautiful son.

Starting at 32 weeks, I was to have a Contraction Stress Test done weekly until delivery. During my 33 week appointment, my test results came back as "suspicious." After returning the next day for another test, everything looked great. This was a good sign for us, because we were leaving that weekend for a short, cross-country trip to Seattle, WA. My doctor advised me that I could travel by plane, until I was 35 weeks pregnant.

We returned home from Seattle late Monday night. I didn't bother to unpack, and we had no food in our house. On Tuesday, being 8 months pregnant, and jet-lagged, I decided to rest all day. I was a big couch potato. I had decided that I would get the house back in order, and grocery shop on Wednesday, after my doctor's appointment. On Wednesday morning, I made my grocery list, and took my time getting ready. The house was a mess, dishes were piled up in the sink, we had no food, and I still hadn't unpacked from our trip. But, I headed out the door around noon for my doctor's appointment anyways. I figured I'd just take care of it all after the appointment. Little did I know, that I wouldn't return for six days!

Oh, and did I mention that I had ran out the door without my cell phone?

Once I got to the hospital, I was ready for the testing to begin. As it progressed, the nurse kept making comments about Bobby's heart rate dropping. Because of this, the test took longer than normal, as she wanted to make sure the results were actually valid. I started to get nervous, but was also thinking that everything would ultimately be fine. She told me that she was going to call Dr. Brown, so he could pull up the results on his computer. After waiting around for a few more minutes, she came back and told me that we needed to go to Labor & Delivery. I promptly asked to use the phone, so I could call Bob. I knew he would be at lunch, so I called his cell phone. I got his voicemail, and left a message. I then called the receptionist at his office, leaving her a detailed message of what was going on. Unfortunately, I didn't have a return number for him to call back with, because I had left my phone at home. All I could think was, "how could I have left my phone at home?!?"

Because I was being checked into the hospital at this point, the nurse wheeled me over to Labor & Delivery in a wheelchair. I still thought to myself, that I'd be outta there soon enough, and on my way home. The nurse brought me to an empty room, and gave me a gown to change into. At this point, I started thinking, "maybe I won't be going home?!?" Somehow, Bob was able to track me down in the hospital by phone, and we finally talked. I hadn't spoken to my doctor yet, so I was still hopeful of leaving later that afternoon. Bob asked if he needed to leave work, and I told him no.

After sitting around for an hour or so in bed, and listening to Bobby's heartbeat on the fetal monitor, I finally heard from my doctor. He called my room, and explained what was happening. He then proceeded to tell me that he would be taking the baby tomorrow morning, via c-section. "Oh my gosh!," I thought. I could not believe what was happening. I called Bob right away and told him the news. He was freaking out too, and left work immediately to come to the hospital. While on his way, he called his parents, and mine. His mom was in Atlanta at the time, and rushed back home to Peachtree City to start packing. I would later see his parents that night around 8pm or so.

Meanwhile, as I was waiting for Bob to get to the hospital, I started to cry. I cried mostly over the fact that I knew my poor sweet baby would have to stay in the NICU. I knew he was going to be a preemie, and it broke my heart. I knew that I would not be able to take him home upon my discharge from the hospital either. I cried because we weren't prepared for him yet. His nursery was not done, and we didn't have all the supplies we needed. I hadn't so much as bought a nursing bra for myself either. Our plan was to be in "baby mode" after our trip. We thought we had 6 more weeks to prepare. I cried because I didn't even have a bag packed for myself, nor the baby. I cried because my house was in shambles too. I had a big, fat pity party for myself. But, then I got over it. After I let my emotions settle and sink in, I started to get excited. I was finally going to meet my sweet baby boy tomorrow - April 30th, 2009!

Bob arrived at the hospital fairly quickly, and we talked over the day's events. The doctor came and spoke to us, and put our minds at ease. I then made him a list of items to bring from home for me, and off he went. While he was gone, I started calling family and close friends to let them know the news.

By the time Bob came back, it was almost 9pm. He arrived with my items, some dinner, and his parents. He also brought his things, as he would also be spending the next five nights with me in the hospital. I was given a steroid shot for Bobby's lungs, and an Ambien. I had asked for something to help me sleep, as I knew I'd be too nervous to sleep well.

I slept pretty well that night... knowing full well that my life would change at 8:22 am, on Thursday, April 30th, 2009. My sweet baby boy made his entrance into the world, and our lives have been forever changed for the better. I guess April 29, 2009 wasn't such a crazy day after all!

Delivery Room Pictures

Hello everyone!

We are doing well here. Bobby turned 2 weeks old yesterday! In celebration, we sat on the front porch for awhile and rocked. It was so nice outside. The Regions Charity Golf Tournament is taking place literally steps from our home. There has been a lot of action in the neighborhood, and noise (grrr...). Bob was able to enjoy some of the festivities yesterday. We may take Bobby in the stroller this weekend, early in the morning. He is really only supposed to be outside for walks when it's cooler in the day.

He's doing great though! Yesterday, the pediatrician did a weight check. When we left the NICU on Tuesday, he weighed 4.9 lbs. At yesterday's check-up, he weighed 5.2 lbs. He's not quite back up to his birth weight, but I am just happy he is thriving at home. He'll go back next week for another weight check, and then again at 2 months.

We also gave him his first bath at home. Go here to see some pictures of it. We put his footprints in his Baby Book, and The Foot Book, by Dr. Seuss.

Bob's parents left today and they were a huge help. We've been so fortunate to have had them here. My parents are coming in on Monday to help. It was nice having dinner made for us, and help with the house chores. I will miss those morning naps when Bob's mom and dad would hold the baby for me, for a couple of hours. We've also been very fortunate with support from our neighbors. They started bringing us home cooked meals on the 11th, and this will continue almost daily, until the 1st of June. Thank you to all the residents on our street!

Finally, here are some pictures from the delivery room. I have finally uploaded the pics from our trip to Seattle (which feels like a lifetime ago...) and Bobby's Birth Day.

Bobby, just minutes old.

Cute little munchkin, weighing in at 5.62 lbs. His length was 18.5 inches. He was quite big for being born at 34 1/2 weeks!

He's probably thinking "put me back in, put me back in!!!"

Picture of the proud parents.

First family picture.

Two steps forward, one step back...

Today was a pretty good day in the NICU. Bobby is doing great, and the possibility of him being moved into a crib soon is fast becoming a reality. He ate 60 ml this morning! I could not believe it when the nurse told me this. I was there during his 2pm feeding, and he did a great job nursing. I think we are getting the hang of it. After I nursed him, he was pretty sleepy, and did not do too well with the bottle feeding. He was back to about 30 ml. So, he eats like a champ with some feedings, and not so well with others. The nurse predicted he'd be moved into a crib within the next day or so. But, the doctor said in a "few" days...so, we'll just have to wait it out and see. I have a feeling he'll be home by next Wednesday. His weight today was 4 lbs. 11 oz. But, with all newborns, the birth weight is typically gained back within the first two weeks of life.

I am finally feeling a bit more prepared for his homecoming. We still have preparations to do, and another trip or two to Babies R Us. I have most of his belongings that he'll need for the first couple of months downstairs. I think I might start on the nursery too. It will be cute! If what I envision is actually doable. Is that even a word: doable?

Bob's mom has made us another great dinner. We'll eat, and be off again to the hospital for some quality daddy time. Bob's sister Jo is also coming to visit for the weekend. It should be a lot of fun.

P.S. What is going on in the world right now? I haven't watched the news in over a week...

One Week Old

Robert Jeffrey Ross, III is one week old today!

My favorite picture so far, taken 2 days ago.

I can't believe Bobby is already one week old. This week has flown by. Each day is full of joy, and it is always one day closer to when we can bring him home. Bobby is doing great! He is completely breathing on his own, and at this point, we are just waiting on him. He is currently eating 30 ml per feeding. As mentioned before, he needs to get to 40 ml per feeding before he can be discharged. Today, his IV was removed. The IV was feeding him in the early days, and is now just being used to give him glucose or electrolytes. Once his eating is down, and body temperature stabilized, he will be moved from his condo to a crib. After this, the NICU will observe him for 72 hours before allowing him to go home. With all that being said, we are thinking he'll be home by next Wednesday. I guess I was being overly optimistic about having him home for Mother's Day.

Things on the home front are still a bit chaotic, but ok. Bob's mom is here now, and his dad will be back on Saturday. She's been great about feeding us, helping with the house, and of course, taxi'ing yours truly around. Today we got Winston groomed, in preparation for his little brother's arrival home. Tomorrow, we will finally go to Babies R Us, and get the final supplies we need before Bobby's homecoming. The nursery is still the same - unfinished, unorganized, and a mess. I am thinking I might have my mom and I work on it as a project while my parents are visiting in a couple of weeks. We'll see... I might have time to do it before then. Either way, he won't be sleeping up there for a couple of months.

There is certainly a range of emotions I feel daily. I feel happy the most though, because Bobby is improving, and on the home stretch. If this was not the case, I have no idea how I'd be coping. I still cry almost daily though. Yesterday I cried because the NICU was closed when we arrived in the morning, and I had to wait to see him. Today, I cried because I just wish Bob did not have to be back at work through all of this. I guess my hormones are going to be on overdrive for awhile!

I have so much more to say, but we have to eat so we can get back to the hospital. We love you all!

Photo Link

Go here to access the picture gallery of Bobby!

Exhausted...but, Happy

Hello everyone!

I am one exhausted momma, but very happy! Today was a great day. Bobby is breathing completely on his own, and has been, since this morning. He also started eating by bottle yesterday. I attempted to breast feed him yesterday too, but he's still learning (as am I). He is eating my breast milk that I have been pumping, and they are also supplementing with formula when needed. Bob has taken to calling me a milk factory. Ahhh...sweet husband he is!

The prognosis is very good. Basically, the timeline for him going home is to first make sure he is breathing normally on his own. And, second, to make sure he is eating at least 40 ml per meal, for a couple of days. Right now, he is eating about 25 ml per meal. He is having a little bit of difficulty with the sucking and swallowing, but that's to be expected. I am hoping and praying to have him home by Mother's Day, but we'll see...

My wonderful father-in-law has captured everything on film, and has posted pictures on his website:

http://rjross.smugmug.com/gallery/8095321_unNzK#527577506_GxUJx

Please let me know if the link does not work. He is updating his website daily, so always check back for recent pictures.

One of these days, I'll stop being lazy, and post some pictures. Ha! In all honesty, the days are not long enough. Between visiting Bobby in the NICU, pumping, and recovering, I don't have time for much else. Actually, shamefully, I think I really only "relaxed" for about an hour today. I need to give myself time to get over the surgery. Thankfully, Bob's parents have been a tremendous help. I also cannot thank everyone enough for the packages, food, gifts, etc... that we are still receiving. I am sorry if you have called, texted, or emailed me. I am trying to return as many of these as possible. One day at a time... One day at a time. That is what I keep reminding myself.

Emotionally, I am feeling much better. As long as my beautiful baby boy keeps improving, I am a happy camper. Bob is back at work, and visits Bobby during lunch and at night. He is going to take the rest of his vacation time when he comes home. I cannot wait for our family to be together as one.

Thanks again for all your support. I will try and update you each day, but it may be every couple of days. We love you all!

Sunday Night Update

Hello to all of our loved ones! I am in much better spirits today. Bobby is doing well, and I am recovering nicely. Yesterday was a hard day for me. The reality of what is happening had sunk in, and I was in pretty bad pain too. Today, Bobby was placed in an incubator. They call the incubators "condos" in the NICU. It is so true though. They are big, spacious, and quiet. He really likes the peace and quiet, and the white noise of the machine, I think. He was placed in one because the doctor felt like he was getting too irritated with all the noise, and therefore his oxygen numbers were not decreasing. He also has a bit of jaundice, but this is pretty normal for a lot of newborns. His numbers today have been great! At last report, his oxygen level was at 23%. Remember, we are trying to get it down to 20%. The doctor says once his oxygen is normal, we can move onto things like me holding him (yay!) and feeding him. It is so hard to not be able to hold him. I want to bond with him desperately. I stroke him as often as I can, but I don't like to do that so often, as anything that irritates him causes his oxygen levels to increase. The nurses in the NICU are great. They have said that he gives them a run for their money. He is very active, and they are constantly trying to make him comfortable. If he was a girl, I'd say he's a Diva in training! All I know, is that each time he is uncomfortable, and starts crying, his numbers go up. And, of course, I start crying. I can't help it. I do have to admit that his cries are so cute sounding though. You might have to remind me of saying that in a few weeks when he is home howling! :-)

As for me, like I mentioned, the pain today has subsided greatly. My doctor upped my pain medication, to what I feel like is finally the right amount. I take 10mg of Loritab every 4 hours. After the c-section I was taking morphine, and was very allergic to it. I was itching like crazy and was given Benadryll a few times. I think this is pretty normal though, as I have heard other new moms in the hall asking for Benadryll. I am having my staples removed tomorrow before being discharged. My milk has come in too, and I am pumping and saving it for Bobby. He is still eating through an IV.

I think tomorrow will be a hard day for us. It is hard enough having your baby in the NICU, but now we will have to leave him here overnight. I know it is the best thing for him, but I hate to leave him. It makes me tear up just thinking about it. Please continue to pray for our family.

Again, thank you for all that have reached out to us during this time. I finally checked my messages on my phone today, and appreciate the messages. Everyone has been wonderful, and we look forward to getting back to you all soon!

Baby Blues

Bob and I were in the NICU earlier, and Bobby opened his eyes a few times! This has made my day! You have no idea what it's like to see your baby do something simple like that! He was really fussy this morning, and of course with my hormones, I was a mess. If he cries, I cry.

Anyhow, he is doing much better this afternoon. He has opened his baby blue's a couple of times. And, his oxygen level was in the low 40's.

I'm up in the room now resting, and snacking. I have to come up every couple of hours to pump. We'll report more later!

Thanks for the sweet comments and prayers.

Bobby Update

Hello to all of our family, friends, and readers!

This is Jen, finally feeling up to some computer time. It is about 9am here, and I am awaiting my lovely hospital breakfast. Yesterday's was not so bad, but that was after a whole day on liquids. My days are so confusing, as I have been admitted in the hospital since Wednesday afternoon.

The birth of Bobby was amazing, yet a blur. The epidural was fine, but I definitely felt out of it. I remember most of that day, but it was also one big haze. I am still in a bit of pain, but up and at 'em, as best as possible.

Bobby is in the NICU still. He'll be there at least thru Thursday, as far as we know. They may keep him shorter, or longer, depending on his lungs getting stronger. Room air that we breathe is 20% oxygen, the machine that he is on is at 50% oxygen. The point is to get his number down to 20% oxygen. They are slowly trying to wean him off. In my daze, I did not really realize all this was happening until yesterday.

I have to say that this has been very hard for me. I am crying as I type this. It's not fair that I've only held my baby once. I want to bond with him so badly, but all I can do is stroke him. He's so cute too. He hasn't opened his eyes yet either. They are swollen shut, due to the oxygen mask he has to wear. Bob and I can hear the baby in the room crying next to us, and this morning we both said that is something we want so badly right now. But, we both know that he's getting the best care possible. This just all happened so fast. He was supposed to be inside me for another 5 weeks.

Right now, our days consist of seeing Bobby in the NICU, me pumping, eating, and resting. I am really wanting my milk to come in, so he can eat when he's ready. Right now, Bobby's eating through an IV.

We have a TON of pics to share, but our cord is at home. Bob's parents are here from Peachtree City, so maybe we can get them to bring it. I just wanted to let everyone know what was going on, and more specifically to ask for prayers. Please pray that Bobby's lung continue to grow stronger each day. Please pray that we may bring him home sooner, rather than later. And, please pray for our own strength.

Thanks to all those that have called, sent emails, comments, flowers, and visited. We really appreciate it!

Due to popular demand.... PICS!

Trifecta - The Three Robert Jeffrey Ross's

BIG FOOT

Mom & Baby
Cute little guy!!

Robert Jeffrey Ross, III has arrived!

Hello World - this is Bob :)

I'm sitting next to Jen in our LD room after the amazing birth of Bobby! He was born at 8:22 am and weighed 5.62 pounds measuring 18.5 inches long. Jen and I both had a chance to hold him and give him kisses before taking him over to NICU for monitoring. He came out screaming and was breathing on his own. We will be moved to a room in the next hour or so and will stop by to see him again on the way.

Jen is doing great! She is recovering well and sleeping a little bit. What a great day!! We'll get some pics out as soon as we can.

Bob

Quick Update

I'm in Labor & Delivery... came in today for routine testing, and the baby's heart rate was dropping. So, at about 5 1/2 weeks left to go, we will actually be welcoming Bobby into the world by c-section at 8:15am tomorrow morning.

Please keep us in your prayers...and I'll update everyone as soon as possible!