Well folks, I had another blood draw this morning and platelets dropped. Dr. Tabor cut the 24 hour urine analysis short and found protein in my urine so I do have preeclampsia. This means today is delivery day! We are excited, and nervous to finally meet our babies. Please pray for a safe, uneventful delivery. Your prayers have taken us this far and we continue to need them.
Hugs,
Amber
We just got my bloodwork back and platelets are okay for now. They will continue to monitor my blood pressure and protein, and will likely re visit platelets tomorrow. At least for tonight delivery was averted. I am hoping we can get to 31 weeks (Sunday) at least, but really will be okay if we meet the babies before then. Surpassing 30 weeks with quadruplets is not too shabby. In the meantime, thank you for all of your prayers and kind thoughts!
hugs,
Amber
Today we had an appointment with Dr. Tabor to check on little Sydney. She and her siblings were champs! I, however, was the problem child. My blood pressure was high and there were traces of protein in my urine, which are precursors to pre eclampsia. Dr. Tabor ordered bloodwork and my platelet counts were low. Thus, I was admitted. At this time, my vitals are being monitored every four hours and I am completing a 24 hour urine analysis to check protein levels. I will have another blood draw this evening to check platelets. If they are low, we have to deliver tonight! If my platelets are ok, my vitals will be checked and delivery will occur if pre eclampsia is a problem. Dr. Tabor is thinking by Saturday! It is surreal how close we are to meeting our babies. Please keep us in your prayers as we approach delivery.
Hugs!
Amber
Here is my blood pressure
While waiting for my results, George decided to clean his key chain Swiss Army knife and sliced his finger! Sheesh!
30 weeks, 4 days
Today I had to return to the doctor for my second round of steroids, but George was at work and obviously I can’t drive. I actually haven’t driven since May 16th! Boy, that seems weird. Anyways, my friend, Neha, and her Mom, Amita, already planned to visit and bring lunch today. And Billie planned to bring dinner tonight so I devised a plan and enlisted their help.
I’ve never mentioned the ordeal we go through getting to the doctor,but thinking about how it took three people to do it today made it blog-worthy. Sometimes I just have to laugh about this sort of thing. Otherwise the flood gates could break.
Neha and Amita drove me to the hospital down the lovely highway 35 corridor complete with construction and bottle neck traffic. Upon arrival, Amita dropped me off with the valet so I could settle into my wheelchair. Usually at this point the valet guy that I befriended takes me to the lobby where I wait for George. This time, Neha then wheeled me to an elevator where we headed to the 6th floor. Once we got there, she wheeled me into the non-ADA compliant doctor’s office. You would think a doctor’s office inside a hospital would be ADA compliant, but nope. Navigating narrow doors and between waiting room chairs is a real treat. I checked in to get my steroid shot and we waited. Meanwhile, Amita navigated the gauntlet that is the parking garage. Once she got out of the garage, she descended the elevator to the ground floor then headed up the second elevator to meet us upstairs.
Billie also managed the parking garage gauntlet and traversed through the elevators. She finally met us in the waiting room and everyone had their parking ticket validated. The nurse finally called me back and Neha wheeled me into a room for my shot, which took a minute tops. All four of us reversed the previous steps of getting into the office. I ended up back with the valet while Billie picked up her car to take me home. This was roughly a two hour ordeal from start to finish. All that for a quick poke in the butt! Thank goodness for friends!
That being said, being temporarily disabled really makes you appreciate the little things in life like walking. While I’m not enjoying this aspect of the adventure, it is making me a better, hopefully more empathic person in the end. Many people that we brush by daily are not dealing with a disability on a temporary basis. It is their permanent reality and it’s not easy. They don’t want our pity, but may just need a hand every now and then or for someone to hold the door open.
Hugs,
Amber
We had a great appointment with Dr. Tabor today. Each baby performed for our ultrasound tech, Samantha, with movements and practice breathing. They were all reluctant to show off, but in time, they did. I am relatively certain they were sleepy after the four ring circus they had in my stomach earlier in the day. Dr. Tabor did a bio physical profile aka growth scan for everyone. Sydney remains our little peanut, but she did grow. At this point, she is in the 15th percentile overall. However, we were assured that there are no indications of illness or complications. Dr. Tabor said if she were in the 5th percentile or below he would be worried. She is simply small because there just isn’t much room. Mason is just slightly ahead of Sydney, but within normal limits. Rylin and Harper are on track for singletons! Apparently, everyone but Sydney has a large head. Don’t worry though, they are within normal limits. It does run in the family too….my Grandma always says my Dad had a HUGE head. Actually, he still has a big head. I suppose large heads will help store all of their brains.
Here are the current weight estimates:
Baby A, Rylin: 3 pounds, 4 ounces
Baby B, Harper: 3 pounds, 5 ounces
Baby C, Sydney: 2 pounds, 2 ounces
Baby D, Mason: 2 pounds, 14 ounces
Dr. Tabor wants to give Sydney more time to grow in the womb before we deliver. Our goal is now 32 weeks and I will have appointments twice weekly. If I’m not being admitted, two appointments per week will reassure me that the babies are okay. Since we should deliver within two weeks, I got my first round of steroids today. They are administered when babies will likely be delivered preterm to help them develop surfactant, which is a liquid substance that helps them breathe easily after birth. I go back tomorrow for round two. The fun part about steroids is that they sting after administration for at least 10 minutes and cause contractions. My stomach has been pretty much taught since 5:00, it’s nifty. George said its all just a “Roid rage”! Oh, and these steroids will not help build my muscle mass, darn!
If I want to get abs like this chick, I will have to do it the hard way. Work out! These steroids simply won’t help my physique.
Before we left, we had a slew of questions and concerns, which Dr. Tabor calmly put to rest. (I was planning to let him have it. After all, I am totally uncomfortable and my body is protesting this. Plus, I get scared being at home.) I told him I was constantly uncomfortable and having tons of contractions, but he said this was okay unless there was pain. I told him I have to take Tylenol pm to get any sleep at night and he said, “Okay”. We ran through what to watch for, when to come in, and when to call 911. He doesn’t plan to admit me unless contractions are painful as home is a better place to be. I am constantly amazed when I get more time at home. However, at this point I need more babysitters when George is at work because anytime could be “go time”! Thankfully, my Dad is off work for the summer, and he likes movies.
Hugs!Amber
30 weeks, 1 day
I have officially been on bed rest eight weeks now, six of them strict (e.g. Mostly in bed). At first, I really didn’t watch much television mostly because I cut the cable in our bedroom (genius idea I know). I started with a list of sedentary activities to occupy myself: order various items for the babies, read several novels, write thank you notes, fill out insurance forms, contact insurance companies and human resources for work….you get the idea. Being on bed rest has not been easy for this fiercely independent busy body. Under normal circumstances, I don’t even sit still for a 30 minute sitcom in the DVR. That’s because if there’s a commercial, I figure it’s a good opportunity to get a few chores done like run a load of laundry. I also used to hit the gym 3-4 times a week for yoga classes or kickboxing with our trainer. And, we walked the dogs nightly. It pains me that they rarely if ever get walked and the outlook for future walks is grim.
As the weeks pass, I have pretty much attacked my sedentary to-do list and honestly don’t feel up to doing much. I don’t sleep much at night so the fatigue is insane and I am mostly uncomfortable. Thus, I am becoming an official movie watching professional. Gross, I know. I decided I should review the current movies I’ve seen while on bed rest. The fact that I am taking the time to do this is probably a testament to my utter boredom and attempt to maintain sanity.
Young Adult
Synopsis:Charlize Theron plays Mavis Gary, a writer of teen literature who returns to her small hometown to relive her glory days and attempt to reclaim her happily married high school sweetheart (Patrick Wilson). When returning home proves more difficult than she thought, Mavis forms an unusual bond with a former classmate (Patton Oswalt) who hasn’t quite gotten over high school, either. — (C) Paramount
My Two Cents: I felt duped by this one! It is NOT a comedy (its listed as a drama/ comedy) or even a dramedy for that matter. It was somewhat depressing as Mavis is basically an alcoholic who falls on her face throughout the movie. I would not bother with this one.
New Year’s Eve
Synopsis: New Year’s Eve celebrates love, hope, forgiveness, second chances and fresh starts, in the intertwining stories told amidst the pulse and promise of New York City on the most dazzling night of the year. — (C) Warner Bros
My Two Cents: This was a good mood provoking movie even though it was predictable and didn’t have a ton of plot. It’s worth a dollar redbox movie night.
21 Jump Street
Synopsis: In the action-comedy 21 Jump Street, Schmidt (Jonah Hill) and Jenko (Channing Tatum) are more than ready to leave their adolescent problems behind. Joining the police force and the secret Jump Street unit, they use their youthful appearances to go undercover in a local high school. As they trade in their guns and badges for backpacks, Schmidt and Jenko risk their lives to investigate a violent and dangerous drug ring. But they find that high school is nothing like they left it just a few years earlier – and neither expects that they will have to confront the terror and anxiety of being a teenager again and all the issues they thought they had left behind. — (C) Sony Pictures
My Two Cents: Okay, this one was pretty cheesy and predictable, but has it’s laugh worthy moments. I liked that Johnny Depp made an appearance as an homage to his days on the television show. Channing Tatum makes for good eye candy so that helps this movie. Again, worth renting from redbox for a buck, but that’s it.
Mirror Mirror
Synopsis: One of the most beloved stories of all time is coming to life in the motion picture event for the whole family, Mirror Mirror. A fresh and funny retelling of the Snow White legend, Mirror Mirror features breakout star Lily Collins as Snow White, a princess in exile, and Julia Roberts as the evil Queen who ruthlessly rules her captured kingdom. Seven courageous rebel dwarfs join forces with Snow White as she fights to reclaim her birthright and win her Prince in this magical comedy filled with jealousy, romance, and betrayal that will capture the hearts and imaginations of audiences the world over. The film also stars Armie Hammer as the Prince, and Nathan Lane as the hapless and bungling servant to the Queen. — (C) Relativity
My Two Cents: I have to admit, I am a sucker for fairy tales so I liked this one a lot. The set and costumes were whimsy and I loved them. The story is mostly the one you know with a few twists. I say this one is worthwhile.
Wanderlust
Synopsis: George (Paul Rudd) and Linda (Jennifer Aniston) are an overextended, stressed out Manhattan couple. After George is downsized out of his job, they find themselves with only one option: to move in with George’s awful brother in Atlanta. On the way there, George and Linda stumble upon Elysium, an idyllic community populated by colorful characters who embrace a different way of looking at things. Money? It can’t buy happiness. Careers? Who needs them? Clothes? Only if you want them. Is Elysium the fresh start George and Linda need? Or will the change of perspective cause more problems than it solves? — (C) Universal
My Two Cents: Ugh!!! I like Paul Rudd and Jennifer Aniston, but this movie fell flat. There seemed to be holes in the story leaving me to think I missed something. The best parts were when Paul Rudd seemed to be improvising. Seriously, not worth your time.
We Bought a Zoo
Synopsis: This holiday season, acclaimed filmmaker Cameron Crowe (Jerry Maguire, Almost Famous) directs an amazing and true story about a single dad (Matt Damon) who decides his family needs a fresh start, so he and his two children move to the most unlikely of places: a zoo. With the help of an eclectic staff, and with many misadventures along the way, the family works to return the dilapidated zoo to its former wonder and glory. — (C) Official Site
My Two Cents: This was a sweet story inspired by a real family. I found it heartwarming and endearing. The little girl who plays Rosie, Matt Damon’s daughter, totally makes this movie. I say give it a whirl.
The Vow
Synopsis: A newlywed couple (Channing Tatum) recovers from a car accident that puts the wife (rachel McAdams) in a coma. Waking up with severe memory loss, her husband endeavors to win her heart again. — (C) Sony Pictures
My Two Cents: Although it was melancholy at times, this was a sweet love story by Nicholas Sparks. It makes you want to cherish each moment. Again, Channing Tatum served as eye candy at the very least. Worthy of a rental.
American Reunion
Synopsis: In the comedy American Reunion, all the American Pie characters we met a little more than a decade ago return to East Great Falls for their high-school reunion. In one long-overdue weekend, they will discover what has changed, who hasn’t and that time and distance can’t break the bonds of friendship. It was summer 1999 when four small-town Michigan boys began a quest to lose their virginity. In the years that have passed, Jim and Michelle married while Kevin and Vicky said goodbye. Oz and Heather grew apart, but Finch still longs for Stifler’s mom. Now these lifelong friends have come home as adults to reminisce about-and get inspired by-the hormonal teens who launched a comedy legend. — (C) Universal
My Two Cents: I have to admit….this one is sort of a guilty pleasure. The American Pie series came out when I was in high school so it is reminiscent for George and I. As the rest of the series, this one is down right raunchy and not for your mother. If you graduated in the 90’s you’d probably appreciate it.
Any suggestions about movies I should watch??? I have plenty of time for at home movies, and I have Netflix online.
Hugs,
Amber
Movie synopsis courtesy of Rotten Tomatoes
http://www.rottentomatoes.com/
29 weeks, 6 days
Yesterday we had a great appointment with Dr. Tabor, perhaps the best we’ve had in weeks. This time, all of the babies performed on cue. My vitals were fine, and he said my blood sugar was “perfect”. So, I was sent home for another week of freedom.
As usual, I was totally exhausted when I got home. I tried to take a nap, but never got comfortable enough to rest well. By early evening, I was getting increasingly uncomfortable and had sporadic contractions. As the evening progressed, so did the contractions. They eventually ramped up to a pattern of occurring every 10-15 minutes so we called Dr. Tabor who instructed us to head to labor and delivery. By the time we got to the hospital, contractions were two minutes apart and intense. Once we checked in, I was attached to a Toco monitor to check the contractions and a fetal heart rate monitor for two of the babies’ heartbeats (it was too difficult to get all four so we settled on two at a time). Dr. Tabor ordered for me to increase fluid intake and prescribed Vicodin. At first, I was uncomfortable, but not in pain so I didn’t know why I needed Vicodin. Well, two hours after having contractions every two minutes cleared it up for me. That many contractions becomes painful! The Vicodin literally couldn’t start working fast enough. My nurse, Katie, checked my cervix and it was unchanged, but we were in it for the night.
Lucky George got to sleep on the sofa in jeans with what he called “denim sheets” and “diaper pillows”. My bed was fairly comfortable, but I was hooked up to several monitors, there were lights from the monitors and I could hear everything in the hallway. Needless to say, sleep was somewhat elusive. At 6:00 sharp, Dr. Tabor stopped by to check on me and my cervix. That was a fun wake up call! My cervix was still unchanged so we just had to wait for the fetal fibronectin (ffn) results to find out what would happen next. My ffn was negative meaning labor would not likely occur within the next two weeks so we got to come home. Whew! This is becoming quite the roller coaster!
After spending the night at the hospital, George is now tweaking a few things so it is better next time (we know there will be a next time). He is packing a “go bag” for himself with a toothbrush, pjs, and bedding at the least. Plus, he got the neighbors phone numbers so we can call them to care for the dogs if needed.
This is the computer screen showing my contractions, the hills are contractions and the lines between show one minute intervals. Below is what the Toco monitor looks like from my perspective.
Since we got to stay the night, I was served a delicious hospital breakfast in bed. I bet you wish you had some too. George refused to have any of it and I choked down the toast and hash browns. I have no idea what that bacon looking stuff was.
Hugs,
Amber
29 weeks, 3 days
I have the best hair stylist ever! Matt has been cutting my hair for about four years, or maybe five. Honestly, I can’t remember. I found him at an Aveda salon after not getting so much as a trim for seven months. My hair was in dire straits when we met. You see, the previous stylist gave me a horrendous bob that needed to grow out and I pretty much fired her. I had never trusted my hair with a boy, but figured Aveda salons wouldn’t steer me wrong, and they didn’t!
Matt has also become the stylist for George and Courtney, which means he probably knows all the family secrets by now…he he. He keeps us all looking our best, and is a friend too. He was so sweet that he made a home visit today. Of course I haven’t been able to visit the salon in months, and have been seriously neglecting my hair. Since I am mostly in bed, I basically wash my hair and pony tail it, which is not a good look. I was hoping he could put toner on my hair to tame the color, but realized there was no way to rinse it out. Oh well, I will just have to wait to work on the color. In the meantime, Matt gave me a great trim and I feel much better. I may be “large, and not in charge”, but I can have pretty hair. Thanks, Matt!
Here’s Matt armed with scissors, blow dryer, and flat iron. Hair, beware!
Here’s the new “do”
Hugs,
Amber
Ps…we made it 29 weeks now. Yay!
We made it to our 28 week doctor’s appointment today. Thankfully, Dr. Tabor was happy with my blood sugar levels so I don’t have to monitor daily anymore. He does want me checking Monday and Friday to make sure they don’t go crazy. I can handle that. My vitals were also in check.
Then we had a scare….
You see, each week, all of the babies are monitored via ultrasound to check fluid levels and for movement. In addition, something called a Doppler is used to check the blood flow and pressure on Sydney’s umbilical cord. Since we hit the 28 week mark, today each baby needed to demonstrate “practice breathing”, or moving fluid in and out of the lungs. Rylin, Harper, and Mason all passed as they had good fluids, moved, and practiced their breathing. Our tiny girl, Sydney had adequate fluids, but did not perform. We could hear and see her heartbeat, which offered a piece of mind, but this usually acrobatic girl did not budge. Our ultrasound tech, Celeste, persisted for 15 minutes, but Sydney did nothing. Finally, Dr. Tabor came in and said we needed some movement within 30 minutes, which meant Sydney had 15 minutes left to perform. If she didn’t, I would head to the hospital for observation, and we would possibly have to deliver today. Because we were past 28 weeks I didn’t meltdown, but I was really worried about the possibility.
Celeste didn’t give up on Sydney and kept searching for movement another 15 minutes. Everyone tried to help. I poked my belly, George directed her to “move”, and even Harper kicked Sydney. Nothing. This girl was not moving. She was happily curled up and that was that. I literally prayed, “God, please help Sydney move.” It was simple, but that was all I had. Dr. Tabor returned and I figured it was to the hospital with me. Fortunately, I was wrong. Dr. Tabor used the Doppler and noted that Sydney’s cord and pressure were good. The she did it, she moved! Hallelujah!!!
Dr. Tabor said we caught her during a nap. Apparently babies at this stage go in and out of sleep cycles like that and she was conked out, and they don’t breathe while they sleep since it is practice anyways. She woke up just in time to pass her test. Whew! That meant, I got to go home and the hospital was averted for a bit longer.
Why the monkey picture? George insisted I include it since we had a scare today. I hate this monkey because I think it looks deranged and scary. However, I got it as a gift for George from an antique store when I found out he really loved it. It has a home perched on a bookshelf in our study because I told George it was far to scary for the boys nursery and he’s ok with that. Hey, this monkey is lucky to even have a home!
Hugs,
Amber
28 weeks, 4 days
We made it to week 28!!!! This is a HUGE milestone for us as the survival rate for the babies jumps up to 95% and the risks of long term disabilities drops dramatically. Of course we don’t really want the babies coming this week, but at least they have good chances if they did. I may not love being on house arrest, but I am really fortunate to still be home at this point. I love having my fur babies at my side all day and friends dropping by at home. Though I must admit, each day is a challenge for me. The discomforts increase each day and contractions are more common these days. It pained me to do it, but I had to take Tylenol in order to rest last night. I have had intermittent rib pain on the right the entire time (now exacerbated by Mason’s cute little feet), but it started on the left last night. I finally had to cry “uncle” and just had to down some Tylenol. I did actually sleep from 3:00-6:45 because of it.
I know each day the babies simmer is better for them, but my body is starting to rebel. Each day I put my big girl pants on (figuratively and literally) to make it another day because each day is a victory. Your prayers and positive thoughts have helped us make it here so please keep it up. As I become increasingly large and uncomfortable, my patience is thinning. So, perhaps pray that I remain calm and patient.
Hugs,
Amber
Four to Adore 