Our Bundle of Joy is Here!

Last week we were suprised with the early arrival of our daughter, Avery Renee. We were blessed with her entrance into our lives on August 12, 2009 at 7:29pm... 29 days earlier than expected. She weighed 5lbs, 14oz and measured 17.5 inches long, and arrived by C-section. It was an amazing, but scary day for us. It actually all started the night before when I got home from work. I noticed that Avery wasn't moving as much as usual, so I called labor & delivery, and they encouraged me to eat something sweet and keep trying to get our kick-counts. I did so, but after almost 2 hours, we still couldn't feel her moving as much. So, we ended up going into the hospital to get checked out. After being monitored for 5 hours, and having 2 ultrasounds, and bloodwork done, they were still not completely sure what was going on. I was having some mild contractions, and Avery was having some dips in her heart rate. Finally, they decided that it was safe to send me home, so we went home at 4am thinking that everything would be fine. I had an OB appointment at 10am, and my nurse practitioner was still worried about the situation, so she sent me for a non-stress test at 2:30pm. After being monitored for about an hour or so, and seeing more dips in the baby's heart rate, 2 doctors from labor and delivery rushed over with a wheelchair saying that we were probably going to have a baby. They initially thought that maybe they could induce me, but after talking it over my doctor, she decided to do a C-section. It all happened very fast. My parents and family arrived just in time with cameras. I was so thankful that Kathy was able to capture so many great pictures for us. Ted's parents ended up driving from Houston, and arrived around midnight to meet Avery. Thankfully, Avery was delivered without any complications. It turns out that the cord was wrapped around her leg, which was probably causing the dips in her heart rate. It was a good thing that we noticed that something wasn't right. She was early and a little small, but completely healthy. We spent 3 nights in the hospital, and came home early on Saturday. She has had a few issues with her temperature and bilirubin level this week, so we've had to bundle her up really well and also do some sunbathing in the window a few times a day. She is nursing without any problems, and I am really enjoying it so far. We got good news this morning at newborn follow-up. Her bilirubin level was low enough that we don't have to go back anymore. She also continues to gain weight and maintain her temperature. So, we couldn't ask for anything more. She is a precious little angel, and we are enjoying every second of parenthood. Ted has been at home with me all week, and has been a great help. He is loving his little girl, and so am I! The dogs are also adjusting really well. We are just one little happy family now, and couldn't imagine life without Avery. Here are a few pictures... I'll continue to keep you updated!

Our little girl

Cute little feet

Our 1st family photo

Leaving the hospital

Sleeping in the bouncer

Our precious little angel

We love all that beautiful dark hair!

1st sponge bath at home

Daddy's little girl