tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-91710745456064894212024-03-13T07:28:54.716-05:00The Hull MunchkinsThe Hull Munchkinshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05331288084181649305noreply@blogger.comBlogger150125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9171074545606489421.post-62589937103405671872009-08-16T14:51:00.010-05:002009-08-16T16:25:25.893-05:00New Home<img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 174px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_d05dBBbNzLI/SohlEqUzyQI/AAAAAAAADbM/HDXz1xsMXWM/s400/Mountains-and-Mustard-Seeds.png" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5370653686394767618" /><br />We've moved!<div><br /></div><div>Since adding little Levi to our family this summer it didn't seem appropriate to keep this blog address anymore: "abbyandjosiah"</div><div><br /></div><div>This past Christmas I received a very unique and fun gift from the Hull family: a blog makeover and funds to make our past posts into a keep sake book. </div><div><br /></div><div>Please visit our new "<a href="http://patrickandpatty.blogspot.com/">Home</a>" to see the makeover and continue following our family's journey!</div><div><br /></div><div>(<a href="http://patrickandpatty.blogspot.com/">http://patrickandpatty.blogspot.com/</a>)</div>The Hull Munchkinshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05331288084181649305noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9171074545606489421.post-91049236568193611612009-07-28T14:35:00.006-05:002009-07-28T15:25:17.178-05:00Welcome to the family Levi!<iframe allowfullscreen='allowfullscreen' webkitallowfullscreen='webkitallowfullscreen' mozallowfullscreen='mozallowfullscreen' width='320' height='266' src='https://www.blogger.com/video.g?token=AD6v5dwzcxIktzKqfJGXDBjFa9-QqNqgXhLSXZfZDy00kbYtNqL_Zkss0_Fpjz_2e9QiD7Apk-QKi-QlSwTaTiX3Yw' class='b-hbp-video b-uploaded' frameborder='0'></iframe><div><br /></div><div>(stop music @ bottom of page before enjoying the movie!)</div>The Hull Munchkinshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05331288084181649305noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9171074545606489421.post-84680634862830385332009-07-28T14:15:00.000-05:002009-07-28T15:25:55.669-05:00Abby<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_d05dBBbNzLI/Sm9bpALsa4I/AAAAAAAADZs/umzHs8mQzZQ/s1600-h/IMG_3511.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 214px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_d05dBBbNzLI/Sm9bpALsa4I/AAAAAAAADZs/umzHs8mQzZQ/s320/IMG_3511.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5363606441203362690" /></a><br />It's been a busy couple of months, but some how, with the help of our wonderful GiGai (my mom) we have been able to keep up with Abby's many therapies and appointments.<div><br /></div><div>Last Thursday we spent the entire morning at Children's Rehab and were able to see several of her specialists. The dietician weighed and measured Abby then plotted her progress on the growth chart she's kept for the past 4 years. To our dismay we found her to be falling off the curve. </div><div><br /></div><div>The past 3 years Abby has been growing slowly on her own personal curve, below the 3rd %ile. As long as she steadily progressed no one worried about her small size. Now she is quite a bit below even her own curve, and our dietician is concerned. We talked about using a higher calorie formula, keeping her on the pump for more hours during each 24 hr period, and a few other ideas.</div><div><br /></div><div>After also discussing Abby's symptoms of discomfort during feeds in addition to her continued stubborn fever we decided on a short-term course of action. For 2 weeks we will try giving her smaller amounts of Miralax to help ease her tummy troubles. We have also started her on a daily regimen of probiotics. So far she seems to be somewhat better... but it's very difficult to know for sure what causes her hours of moaning/crying and finger biting.</div><div><br /></div><div>The fevers continue to hit Abby just as we become hopeful that they have subsided. Along with the fevers also come the dreaded seizures. We have been giving Abby the <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Clonazepam">clonazepam</a> on the hard days when we fear the status (prolonged) seizures could strike. So far so good. It seems to help!</div><div><br /></div><div>The whole fever dance has made us very weary. Not knowing the cause but having to watch the effects it has on our girl can truly drive one to tears.</div><div><br /></div><div>... and also to our knees</div>The Hull Munchkinshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05331288084181649305noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9171074545606489421.post-73676609355669719302009-07-21T20:54:00.004-05:002009-07-21T21:18:13.117-05:001 month old<div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_d05dBBbNzLI/SmZzhKbbJ_I/AAAAAAAADZc/6kLbx2S3P7c/s1600-h/IMG_3378.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 214px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_d05dBBbNzLI/SmZzhKbbJ_I/AAAAAAAADZc/6kLbx2S3P7c/s320/IMG_3378.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5361099420003411954" /></a><br />Almost five weeks have passed since our little guy arrived. He's starting to fill out some and is so very kissable! He eats about every 2-3 hrs, and is making eye contact which we all love! Little smiles sneak out when he is falling asleep.<div><br /></div><div>We are slowly getting back into some what of a functional routine. It's more like a messy juggling act! I am finally starting to feel better, not having to take the pain meds as much. Definitely enjoying not feeling sick anymore.<br /><div><br /><div>Funny Josiah story:</div><div><br /></div><div>The other night Patrick told J to clean up his room and line up his shoes. J ran out and proudly announced that he was done. This is what we saw...</div><div><br /></div><div><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_d05dBBbNzLI/SmZ0UlXJICI/AAAAAAAADZk/mWL0Wz3n3zg/s1600-h/IMG_3430.JPG"><img src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_d05dBBbNzLI/SmZ0UlXJICI/AAAAAAAADZk/mWL0Wz3n3zg/s320/IMG_3430.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5361100303406538786" style="display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 214px; " /></a></div></div></div>The Hull Munchkinshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05331288084181649305noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9171074545606489421.post-13465439541915056242009-07-02T16:19:00.009-05:002009-07-02T17:06:59.879-05:002 Weeks Old<div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_d05dBBbNzLI/Sk0m30Rz9bI/AAAAAAAADYU/DJcfrVzcZ8w/s1600-h/IMG_2687.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 214px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_d05dBBbNzLI/Sk0m30Rz9bI/AAAAAAAADYU/DJcfrVzcZ8w/s320/IMG_2687.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5353978272381400498" /></a><br />I can't believe our new little one is already 2 weeks old! So much has happened this month with our move and Levi's arrival I haven't had much time to reflect and collect my thoughts. While I recover from my c-section and try to slowly unpack our many boxes I hope to also put together Levi's first slide show/movie. <div><br /></div><div>My wonderful husband not only stayed standing during Levi's delivery, but managed to video AND capture some priceless pictures of our son! I am so impressed with his many Skills!!</div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_d05dBBbNzLI/Sk0n1aPOJYI/AAAAAAAADYc/KgAbM4t--Kc/s1600-h/IMG_2741.JPG"><img src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_d05dBBbNzLI/Sk0n1aPOJYI/AAAAAAAADYc/KgAbM4t--Kc/s320/IMG_2741.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5353979330543101314" style="display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 214px; " /></a></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_d05dBBbNzLI/Sk0oGXu-shI/AAAAAAAADYk/nnPVOVG72pA/s1600-h/IMG_2791.JPG"><img src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_d05dBBbNzLI/Sk0oGXu-shI/AAAAAAAADYk/nnPVOVG72pA/s320/IMG_2791.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5353979621928776210" style="display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 214px; height: 320px; " /></a></div><div><br /></div><div>For now we just wanted to share a few photos of his first 2 weeks.</div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_d05dBBbNzLI/Sk0oSQxq7_I/AAAAAAAADYs/7rzNBazKmTY/s1600-h/IMG_3049.JPG"><img src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_d05dBBbNzLI/Sk0oSQxq7_I/AAAAAAAADYs/7rzNBazKmTY/s320/IMG_3049.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5353979826219446258" style="display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 214px; height: 320px; " /></a></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_d05dBBbNzLI/Sk0oc7joI5I/AAAAAAAADY0/jfVWVbpBKOM/s1600-h/IMG_3173.JPG"><img src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_d05dBBbNzLI/Sk0oc7joI5I/AAAAAAAADY0/jfVWVbpBKOM/s320/IMG_3173.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5353980009501959058" style="display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 214px; " /></a></div>The Hull Munchkinshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05331288084181649305noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9171074545606489421.post-79841335054739881242009-06-18T22:58:00.011-05:002009-06-23T23:26:19.364-05:00Introducing: Levi Patrick<div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_d05dBBbNzLI/SkGownsqNXI/AAAAAAAADUw/9Lg3axZAeSM/s1600-h/IMG_2472.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 214px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_d05dBBbNzLI/SkGownsqNXI/AAAAAAAADUw/9Lg3axZAeSM/s320/IMG_2472.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5350743385536345458" /></a><br /><div style="text-align: center;">6 lbs 12 oz, 19 inches, born at 8:08PM on 6/17/2009</div><div><br /></div><div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 238); text-decoration: underline;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0); "><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_d05dBBbNzLI/SkGpCuPu5aI/AAAAAAAADU4/DAs43FEAjJ4/s1600-h/IMG_2993.JPG"><img src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_d05dBBbNzLI/SkGpCuPu5aI/AAAAAAAADU4/DAs43FEAjJ4/s320/IMG_2993.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5350743696531711394" style="display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 214px; " /></a></span></span></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div>It has been quite a busy week. We closed on our new house and moved in last weekend. We then frantically unpacked and prepared to go to Connie and Matt's wedding on June 20th. But to our surprise at 37 weeks and few days, Levi decided to make his entrance. This followed Patty laboring all night Tuesday and Wednesday until we went in at about 6:00PM. They are both healthy, Praise the Lord!! I don't think we would have made it this far without help from Patty's mom!</div><div><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 238); "><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 238); "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0); "><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_d05dBBbNzLI/SkGqadYPNPI/AAAAAAAADVQ/SUy1P_9pBMw/s1600-h/IMG_2522.JPG"><img src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_d05dBBbNzLI/SkGqadYPNPI/AAAAAAAADVQ/SUy1P_9pBMw/s320/IMG_2522.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5350745203832468722" style="display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 214px; height: 320px; " /></a></span><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0); "><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_d05dBBbNzLI/SkGqzdgzP7I/AAAAAAAADVY/BmUcbJpJkNY/s1600-h/IMG_2579.JPG"><img src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_d05dBBbNzLI/SkGqzdgzP7I/AAAAAAAADVY/BmUcbJpJkNY/s320/IMG_2579.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5350745633365114802" style="display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 214px; " /></a></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0); "><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_d05dBBbNzLI/SkGp3o_v0sI/AAAAAAAADVI/tna_GDJ4h-k/s1600-h/IMG_2174.JPG"><img src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_d05dBBbNzLI/SkGp3o_v0sI/AAAAAAAADVI/tna_GDJ4h-k/s320/IMG_2174.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5350744605655552706" style="display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 214px; height: 320px; " /></a></span></div></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 238);"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 238);">Josiah wearing Daddy's helmet!</span></div></div>The Hull Munchkinshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05331288084181649305noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9171074545606489421.post-30187286615376598832009-06-09T17:46:00.003-05:002009-06-09T20:36:24.076-05:00ER again<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_d05dBBbNzLI/Si8MtnykLMI/AAAAAAAADSk/ieIW--agl8g/s1600-h/0609090929.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_d05dBBbNzLI/Si8MtnykLMI/AAAAAAAADSk/ieIW--agl8g/s320/0609090929.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5345505260626783426" /></a><br />Abby woke up sick this morning with a fever (101.5). After giving Motrin and her other meds she still went into a prolonged seizure. We caught it as soon as it started and gave the Diastat, but the seizure was stubborn and wouldn't stop. So, off to the ER we went.<div><br /></div><div>It was 8 am so morning traffic was slowing us down a bit. Thankfully Patrick had come home and was driving us, so we got there as quickly as humanly possible. The staff were waiting for us and quickly escorted her to our usual suite. Within about 8 minutes they had IV access and the meds were on board. </div><div><br /></div><div>All in all the seizure lasted about 35 minutes. She needed two doses of the IV seizure meds and some valium, but after about 1 hour she was resting quietly. As usual, all of the tests (chest x-ray, blood work, urine etc) came back normal. She's sick with a virus again.</div><div><br /></div><div>Fortunately we only had to hang out there for about 4 hours before returning home again. The meds have made her extra aggitated, figity and grumpy. Her fever remains above 101 despite Motrin and Tylenol.</div><div><br /></div><div>We are praying for a more peaceful night for Abby. The doc has ordered yet another seizure med to be added to her arsenal for the next 3 nights. We may end up using this medicine in the future when we anticipate an illness coming on, to prevent these long episodes.</div><div><br /></div><div>Abby has an appointment with her neurologist early next week and an ambulatory EEG. Not sure if she will still be having that done after this weeks' event.</div>The Hull Munchkinshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05331288084181649305noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9171074545606489421.post-35621727323260856652009-06-03T13:40:00.003-05:002009-06-03T14:17:54.984-05:00Another Milestone<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_d05dBBbNzLI/SibLmBFcJPI/AAAAAAAADR8/T75fBGIZvw4/s1600-h/IMG_2152.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 214px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_d05dBBbNzLI/SibLmBFcJPI/AAAAAAAADR8/T75fBGIZvw4/s320/IMG_2152.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5343181861908391154" /></a><br />Last night I gave my 21st and very <span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-style: italic;">last</span> <a href="http://www.hydroxyprogesterone.com/">Hydroxyprogesterone caproate</a> injection! It feels so great to be passing this milestone and leaving this weekly routine behind. Now all the muscle knots and bruises can slowly disappear, leaving little evidence that I ever had to give myself these shots.<div><br /></div><div>But of course I will never forget. Studies have shown that this medication helps reduce the risk of preterm delivery in high risk pregnancies. Thankfully we have been able to take advantage of new research, twice.</div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div>The Hull Munchkinshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05331288084181649305noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9171074545606489421.post-42957460616525404562009-06-01T14:55:00.013-05:002009-06-01T18:33:11.040-05:0035 Weeks and our Baby Moon<div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_d05dBBbNzLI/SiQ7WHhVMPI/AAAAAAAADRE/WMVK42UzElE/s1600-h/IMG_2074.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 214px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_d05dBBbNzLI/SiQ7WHhVMPI/AAAAAAAADRE/WMVK42UzElE/s320/IMG_2074.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5342460309130260722" /></a><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div>I had my OB appointment today and all is fine. Despite increasingly painful, draining contractions, no significant changes were found. The baby's heart rate clocked in at 140 bpm and he was bouncing away while the nurse listened. The cerclage stitch is still where it should be, doing it's job of holding down the "fort."<div><br /></div><div>We discussed the plan for our pregnancy from here on out. Basically we will continue taking the Terbutaline until delivery day. She said that "text book" says it won't work past a certain point and will not stop True labor, but she has seen it work non the less. Once it no longer provides the desired effect, we will deliver. I felt relieved to get the green light to keep taking it until the wedding. Hopefully this will enable our family to ALL enjoy celebrating with Connie and Matt on June 20th!</div><div><br /></div><div>Because of the contractions + the cerclage + this being my 3rd c-section, we decided to schedule the big day for June 26th!! I will be about 38 1/2 weeks. If the contractions should earnestly kick in gear before then, we will meet our little peanut sooner. Because of obvious reasons we are of course hoping to hold out as long as possible.</div><div><br /></div><div>We'll see!</div><div><br /></div><div><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_d05dBBbNzLI/SiQ6yjDMr5I/AAAAAAAADQ8/VV9DP54sI6s/s1600-h/IMG_2046.JPG"><img src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_d05dBBbNzLI/SiQ6yjDMr5I/AAAAAAAADQ8/VV9DP54sI6s/s320/IMG_2046.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5342459698044776338" style="display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 214px; " /></a></div><div><br /></div><div>This past weekend Patrick and I had the most wonderful vacation!! We called it our "Baby Moon"... Honeymoon before baby. Grandma, Papa and Aunt Carolyn came to visit and kept A & J for us so we could get away... all 5 miles of it! We stayed in the Westin in the Bridgestreet Shopping center just minutes from our house. </div><div><br /></div><div><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_d05dBBbNzLI/SiQ9D7RidUI/AAAAAAAADRM/uoihsrHz7MM/s1600-h/IMG_2064.JPG"><img src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_d05dBBbNzLI/SiQ9D7RidUI/AAAAAAAADRM/uoihsrHz7MM/s320/IMG_2064.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5342462195628406082" style="display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 214px; " /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;">(view from the court yard)</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div>Our room was cozy and comfy with lots of extra pillows!! Perfect for an uncoordinated, poorly sleeping pregnant person such as myself. We enjoyed the pool, lots of sunshine and a relaxing hot tub. We actually slept in past 7 am and relished in the quietness of being alone.</div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_d05dBBbNzLI/SiQ-bJY_ddI/AAAAAAAADRk/8QOnJkXGeY4/s1600-h/IMG_2113.JPG"><img src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_d05dBBbNzLI/SiQ-bJY_ddI/AAAAAAAADRk/8QOnJkXGeY4/s320/IMG_2113.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5342463694066382290" style="display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 214px; height: 320px; " /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;">(slowly making our way down the Looong hall way to our room)</div><div><br /></div><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_d05dBBbNzLI/SiQ-vi4G4OI/AAAAAAAADRs/L--rozjzGTU/s1600-h/IMG_2124.JPG"><img src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_d05dBBbNzLI/SiQ-vi4G4OI/AAAAAAAADRs/L--rozjzGTU/s320/IMG_2124.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5342464044505161954" style="display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 214px; height: 320px; " /></a><div style="text-align: center;"> (taking a breather from the Long walk... silliness)</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div>Someone surprised us with a gift certificate to eat at Conner's which we thoroughly enjoyed! Of course we ordered expensive entrée's instead of the burger and salad we probably would have chosen other wise. <span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-style: italic;"></span></div><div><br /></div><div><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_d05dBBbNzLI/SiQ-C7yXThI/AAAAAAAADRc/XgXw0snDaqI/s1600-h/IMG_2108.JPG"><img src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_d05dBBbNzLI/SiQ-C7yXThI/AAAAAAAADRc/XgXw0snDaqI/s320/IMG_2108.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5342463278097845778" style="display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 214px; " /></a></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_d05dBBbNzLI/SiQ9h3xQ3BI/AAAAAAAADRU/W2e4dIpn1JE/s1600-h/IMG_2081.JPG"><img src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_d05dBBbNzLI/SiQ9h3xQ3BI/AAAAAAAADRU/W2e4dIpn1JE/s320/IMG_2081.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5342462710083804178" style="display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 214px; " /><div style="text-align: center;">(finishing up some yummy, chocolate cake!)</div></a><div><div><div><div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 238); text-decoration: underline;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 238); text-decoration: underline;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0); "><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_d05dBBbNzLI/SiQ_DhweQBI/AAAAAAAADR0/ly6lHO0hr4Y/s1600-h/IMG_2094.JPG"><img src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_d05dBBbNzLI/SiQ_DhweQBI/AAAAAAAADR0/ly6lHO0hr4Y/s320/IMG_2094.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5342464387802087442" style="display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 214px; height: 320px; " /></a></span></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 238); text-decoration: underline;"><br /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-style: italic; ">Thank you to the generous Giver!</span><br /></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-style: italic;"><br /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-style: italic;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-style: normal; "><div>We felt so blessed!!<br /></div><div><br /></div></span></span></div><div>Abby is doing much better! She had a good weekend, which made ours that much better too. The continuous G-tube feedings are going well so far. She is getting Carafate (a prn reflux med that we've given in the past for flare ups) on a schedule twice a day. Perhaps this is keeping her reflux quiet. We still aren't sure what was causing her discomfort before, but hopefully giving her Jejunum a break from feedings will allow any irritation to heal and cool off.</div><div><br /></div><div>The next step offered by her gastroenterologist was a tube switch and CT of her belly. We opted to wait and see if this break will help her.</div><div><br /></div><div>She has been more herself today and was engaging during feeding therapy. As I type she is ASLEEP, which has not been the case for her afternoons lately. Praise the Lord!</div><div><br /></div><div>Thank you to those who have been praying.</div></div></div></div></div>The Hull Munchkinshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05331288084181649305noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9171074545606489421.post-78153376302467265422009-05-28T15:42:00.005-05:002009-05-29T08:36:30.992-05:00Fussy Abby at 34 weeks<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_d05dBBbNzLI/Sh79LMnixQI/AAAAAAAADQ0/wS1ivze8u88/s1600-h/IMG_2045.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 214px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_d05dBBbNzLI/Sh79LMnixQI/AAAAAAAADQ0/wS1ivze8u88/s320/IMG_2045.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5340984576915457282" /></a><br />Our sweetie has had a difficult couple of weeks. In addition to the up and down temps (still not sure what is going on with that), Abby has been extremely irritable. Some days have been very long! A few of them she has been completely inconsolable. As with most things with Abby it has all been a guessing game. <div><br /></div><div>Although she is on new seizure medication, which is a legitimate reason to be fussy, her symptoms seem to be linked to her J-feedings. Every day lately when we connect her to her continuous J-feeds she starts her moaning and finger biting. Long story short, she seems to improve when we stop the feeding and hold her upright. This includes late night, middle of the night and early morning episodes. Needless to say she hasn't been sleeping normally.</div><div><br /></div><div>Yesterday we took her to the hospital for a fluoroscopy test of her tubes. Basically they squirt contrast liquid in each tube (G and J) and take multiple x-rays. It almost looks live as you watch the liquid going through the tubes. The result was that her tubes are in their proper place, not imbedded in her intestines or kinked or coiled. This test is not able to see tissue irritation which is what we suspect.</div><div><br /></div><div>For now we are allowing the continuous drip to flow into her stomach through the G-tube instead of the Jejunum. We've slowed the rate down and are praying that reflux won't plague her.</div><div><br /></div><div>In other news, we've made it to 34 weeks! The baby is clearly getting bigger and moves all the time. The contractions keep coming and keep me very aware of how much time we have left in this pregnancy. As I've mentioned before, I'll probably be stopping these meds in the next 2 weeks and this makes me wonder what will happen. I'm anxious to talk to our doc this coming Monday about our upcoming plan. So far she's mentioned scheduling the c-section at 39 weeks... if we make it that far.</div><div><br /></div><div>It's getting exciting!</div>The Hull Munchkinshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05331288084181649305noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9171074545606489421.post-38287680054807534082009-05-22T14:50:00.008-05:002009-05-22T15:35:58.430-05:0033 Weeks<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_d05dBBbNzLI/ShcK8lLeYyI/AAAAAAAADQM/_VPnQ754o6g/s1600-h/top-baby-names-2009.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 250px; height: 251px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_d05dBBbNzLI/ShcK8lLeYyI/AAAAAAAADQM/_VPnQ754o6g/s320/top-baby-names-2009.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5338747919159681826" /></a><br />... and counting! As the contractions continue their persistent attempt to annoy, we are even more thankful for each day that passes. <div><br /></div><div>This weeks' OB appointment brought encouraging news. After 2+ weeks of feeling like I have been in early labor it was reassuring to be checked and told that things seem normal for someone with a cerclage in place. Although she didn't measure exact length with an ultrasound this time she said it felt ok. The thing to worry about is cervical tearing from contractions (b/c of the cerclage), and the sign would be bleeding... which I've had none of so far!!</div><div><br /></div><div>I think I've gotten the hang of working with the medications and knowing when it is worth the yucky side effects to take them. They definitely do slow the contractions significantly. I know our doc will tell me to stop taking the meds some time soon. After a certain gestation the pills don't work, and also it won't be necessary to stop labor if it comes. I'm guessing about 35 wks.</div><div><br /></div><div>What is in a <span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-style: italic;">name</span>?</div><div><br /></div><div>Apparently for us, a lot! We can't seem to decide on the perfect name for our little peanut. There are a few favs floating around our conversations, but nothing seems to stick. We've been praying that the Lord would give us the name for this special child. Maybe we will just have to wait to meet him face to face before we know what fits.</div><div><br /></div><div>This is just a funny video I caught last night after daddy got home from work. It's mostly for family who like silly videos of our kids.</div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-style: italic;">(stop</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-style: italic;"> blog music at bottom of page first)</span></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><iframe allowfullscreen='allowfullscreen' webkitallowfullscreen='webkitallowfullscreen' mozallowfullscreen='mozallowfullscreen' width='320' height='266' src='https://www.blogger.com/video.g?token=AD6v5dx1c8O3L2N-7MZ_eFj66K0x-DfX-Bfrbvh3findFJaRdo421wsMmxPkwB__lkavUqvKZaYcPMAFEJV30tvINw' class='b-hbp-video b-uploaded' frameborder='0'></iframe>The Hull Munchkinshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05331288084181649305noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9171074545606489421.post-27848218746215592032009-05-14T12:48:00.003-05:002009-05-14T13:18:07.979-05:0032 weeks<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_d05dBBbNzLI/SgxcvOhrG2I/AAAAAAAADQE/R5EAq-tsosI/s1600-h/IMG_1902.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 214px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_d05dBBbNzLI/SgxcvOhrG2I/AAAAAAAADQE/R5EAq-tsosI/s320/IMG_1902.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5335741624950135650" /></a><br />This week has been a little difficult. While we are celebrating reaching the 32 wk mark, we are battling pre-term labor. Over the last several weeks my contractions have grown stronger and more frequent. As I've mentioned before I'm popping pills daily to try to keep them to a minimum. <div><br /></div><div>Although I don't sit and time them very often, they seem to be coming about 5-15 min apart constantly. The meds do slow them down and help make me feel more comfortable... except for the nasty side effects. One of them causes my stomach to become very upset and I have trouble keeping down meals. (for those who know me well, know that vomiting is one of my most hated enemies!)<div><br /></div><div>The contractions keep me pretty uncomfortable most of the time. There have been days that we weren't sure how much longer our baby will stay put. Of course we are praying for at least 4 more weeks, but really we are hoping to make it to Connie's wedding (June 20)! That is what we pray for every night.</div><div><br /></div><div>The body is a funny thing, especially when it comes to labor. So, who knows, I could feel like I'm in labor for weeks and have nothing really change. Or, we could have another preemie. I go to the doctor again this coming Monday and I'm hoping she will check things out so I can put my mind at ease during the rough days.</div><div><br /></div><div>Thanks to those who are praying!!</div><div><br /></div><div>Abby is having a hard week also. The low grade fevers still come and go. Today she feels yucky and just finished her 6th seizure. So far her temp is 100.4 after Tylenol. No other symptoms. No signs of flu. If this keeps up over the weekend I suppose we will have to take her in to see the pedi. For now we are just watching the fever closely and trying to keep her comfortable and happy... which can be a big challenge!</div></div>The Hull Munchkinshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05331288084181649305noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9171074545606489421.post-53920012695585553952009-05-09T16:14:00.006-05:002009-05-09T16:55:40.417-05:0031 weeks<div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_d05dBBbNzLI/SgX5-d3tTZI/AAAAAAAADPs/uMBuafhP7Ig/s1600-h/Picture+6.png"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 235px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_d05dBBbNzLI/SgX5-d3tTZI/AAAAAAAADPs/uMBuafhP7Ig/s320/Picture+6.png" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5333944185255710098" /></a><div><div style="text-align: center;">(profile) <br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div>I got another little glimpse of our tiny baby yesterday, but he's not so tiny anymore! They were checking his growth and the status of the previous bleed. There was no sign of bleeding!! It has completely resolved.<div><br /></div><div><div><br /></div><div><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_d05dBBbNzLI/SgX6G4-2lBI/AAAAAAAADP0/1NmGqE9JpZs/s1600-h/Picture+2.png"><img src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_d05dBBbNzLI/SgX6G4-2lBI/AAAAAAAADP0/1NmGqE9JpZs/s320/Picture+2.png" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5333944329972388882" style="display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 231px; " /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;">(nose/lips- rest of his face is in the dark)</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div>The baby measured one week ahead and looks great! He's grown so much since our last scan. She estimates he weighs about 4 lbs!! It feels so great to finally be in this weight range. </div><div><br /></div><div> </div><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_d05dBBbNzLI/SgX6Mzb-evI/AAAAAAAADP8/UwHYy1w2OL0/s1600-h/Picture+3.png"><img src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_d05dBBbNzLI/SgX6Mzb-evI/AAAAAAAADP8/UwHYy1w2OL0/s320/Picture+3.png" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5333944431563143922" style="display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 235px; " /></a></div><div><div style="text-align: center;">(little foot)<br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div>It seems that from now on I will be spending most days managing preterm contractions. I'm taking 2 different medications as needed. Some days I take it on a schedule, but have found that the side effects can be pretty uncomfortable. Our doctor says that we have done and are doing everything possible to keep preterm labor from happening. She reassured us that as long as there are no "baby house" changes there is nothing more we can do but wait.</div><div><br /></div><div>On a different note, Abby has had some difficult days lately. She is on her second week of Banzel and we aren't certain how it has affected her. She has been more 'out of it' and Much more fussy! She seems to be also having tummy/intestinal troubles that we try to manage... adjusting her dose and frequency of miralax and tweaking her feeding pump rate as needed. It's really a frustrating guessing game with some days leaving us all drained from her moaning, finger biting and overall unhappiness. </div><div><br /></div><div>She continues to have multiple daily seizures which do cause lots of irritability, but we are hopeful the new medication combination will start helping this soon.</div><div><br /></div><div>If only we knew for sure what was wrong and how to fix it. This daily challenge continues to push me to my knees, knowing that our Heavenly Father truly is the only One who knows and can rescue.</div><div><br /></div><div>Abby also continues to have on/off low grade fevers (100-101+). She is not exhibiting any other signs of illness other than an occasional runny nose. For now we are just keeping an eye on it as this isn't new for Abby. Last Spring we experienced the same pattern with no answers.</div></div></div>The Hull Munchkinshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05331288084181649305noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9171074545606489421.post-45817835399926626422009-04-30T16:58:00.029-05:002009-04-30T21:08:26.516-05:00Family Weekend<div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_d05dBBbNzLI/Sfoh7Ah9BPI/AAAAAAAADNM/jPqUoMuNWhM/s1600-h/IMG_1778.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 214px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_d05dBBbNzLI/Sfoh7Ah9BPI/AAAAAAAADNM/jPqUoMuNWhM/s320/IMG_1778.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5330610406584812786" /></a><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div>Our weekend in pictures. We had so much fun in TN with our family!<div><br /></div><div><div><br /></div><div><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_d05dBBbNzLI/Sfof1avnjpI/AAAAAAAADMs/oCYlMwbc7_E/s1600-h/IMG_1733.JPG"><img src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_d05dBBbNzLI/Sfof1avnjpI/AAAAAAAADMs/oCYlMwbc7_E/s320/IMG_1733.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5330608111518977682" style="display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 214px; height: 320px; " /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;">Josiah's first fishing trip!</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div><div><br /></div><div><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_d05dBBbNzLI/SfogUDY-BHI/AAAAAAAADM0/77J49Th35N4/s1600-h/IMG_1735.JPG"><img src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_d05dBBbNzLI/SfogUDY-BHI/AAAAAAAADM0/77J49Th35N4/s320/IMG_1735.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5330608637825909874" style="display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 214px; " /></a></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_d05dBBbNzLI/Sfog3PbAcHI/AAAAAAAADM8/1qa7V63pfzg/s1600-h/IMG_1743.JPG"><img src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_d05dBBbNzLI/Sfog3PbAcHI/AAAAAAAADM8/1qa7V63pfzg/s320/IMG_1743.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5330609242351104114" style="display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 214px; " /></a></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_d05dBBbNzLI/SfohTWTs-9I/AAAAAAAADNE/dNHhlHfRXqM/s1600-h/IMG_1757.JPG"><img src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_d05dBBbNzLI/SfohTWTs-9I/AAAAAAAADNE/dNHhlHfRXqM/s320/IMG_1757.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5330609725235854290" style="display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 214px; " /></a></div><div><br /></div><div>Cousins at the playground, soaking up some rays...</div><div><br /></div><div><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_d05dBBbNzLI/SfojdCD-PyI/AAAAAAAADNU/laRvASDYjTs/s1600-h/IMG_1793.JPG"><img src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_d05dBBbNzLI/SfojdCD-PyI/AAAAAAAADNU/laRvASDYjTs/s320/IMG_1793.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5330612090623115042" style="display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 214px; height: 320px; " /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;">Norah ("Rosie")</div><div><br /></div><div><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_d05dBBbNzLI/SfokXrLCUKI/AAAAAAAADNc/L59zYgonD18/s1600-h/IMG_1807.JPG"><img src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_d05dBBbNzLI/SfokXrLCUKI/AAAAAAAADNc/L59zYgonD18/s320/IMG_1807.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5330613098091008162" style="display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 214px; height: 320px; " /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;">Anna</div><div><br /></div><div><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_d05dBBbNzLI/Sfoly9DZE1I/AAAAAAAADNs/ISoah9Ao2BM/s1600-h/IMG_1816.JPG"><img src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_d05dBBbNzLI/Sfoly9DZE1I/AAAAAAAADNs/ISoah9Ao2BM/s320/IMG_1816.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5330614666258879314" style="display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 214px; " /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;">Baby Jack</div><div><br /></div><div><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_d05dBBbNzLI/Sfokpw4YuII/AAAAAAAADNk/efVR5KpRDTY/s1600-h/IMG_1814.JPG"><img src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_d05dBBbNzLI/Sfokpw4YuII/AAAAAAAADNk/efVR5KpRDTY/s320/IMG_1814.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5330613408861042818" style="display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 214px; " /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;">Baby Jack's adorable foot!!</div><div><br /></div><div><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_d05dBBbNzLI/SfomIbTlAiI/AAAAAAAADN0/9FDbOJKlTzc/s1600-h/IMG_1809.JPG"><img src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_d05dBBbNzLI/SfomIbTlAiI/AAAAAAAADN0/9FDbOJKlTzc/s320/IMG_1809.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5330615035157086754" style="display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 214px; " /></a></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_d05dBBbNzLI/SfpHpm7Zd1I/AAAAAAAADN8/aHpl36ii9O8/s1600-h/IMG_1820.JPG"><img src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_d05dBBbNzLI/SfpHpm7Zd1I/AAAAAAAADN8/aHpl36ii9O8/s320/IMG_1820.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5330651889096292178" style="display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 214px; height: 320px; " /></a></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_d05dBBbNzLI/SfpIR2QECiI/AAAAAAAADOE/cXqa2dEVRDc/s1600-h/IMG_1822.JPG"><img src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_d05dBBbNzLI/SfpIR2QECiI/AAAAAAAADOE/cXqa2dEVRDc/s320/IMG_1822.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5330652580404267554" style="display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 214px; " /></a></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_d05dBBbNzLI/SfpJUr86ORI/AAAAAAAADOM/BXswV6laAac/s1600-h/IMG_1831.JPG"><img src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_d05dBBbNzLI/SfpJUr86ORI/AAAAAAAADOM/BXswV6laAac/s320/IMG_1831.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5330653728690813202" style="display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 214px; " /></a></div><div><br /></div><div><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_d05dBBbNzLI/SfpLKvZBkZI/AAAAAAAADOs/I9Lp8rBfcFQ/s1600-h/IMG_1868.JPG"><img src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_d05dBBbNzLI/SfpLKvZBkZI/AAAAAAAADOs/I9Lp8rBfcFQ/s320/IMG_1868.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5330655756838605202" style="display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 214px; height: 320px; " /></a></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_d05dBBbNzLI/SfpM2pMD7oI/AAAAAAAADO0/Nw99gRgzgzk/s1600-h/IMG_1846.JPG"><img src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_d05dBBbNzLI/SfpM2pMD7oI/AAAAAAAADO0/Nw99gRgzgzk/s320/IMG_1846.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5330657610599493250" style="display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 214px; " /></a></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_d05dBBbNzLI/SfpNZyveu-I/AAAAAAAADO8/xZLi-oMLABU/s1600-h/IMG_1904.JPG"><img src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_d05dBBbNzLI/SfpNZyveu-I/AAAAAAAADO8/xZLi-oMLABU/s320/IMG_1904.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5330658214459390946" style="display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 214px; " /></a></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_d05dBBbNzLI/SfpPUIc6PNI/AAAAAAAADPE/HZGbt21gCNA/s1600-h/IMG_1900.JPG"><img src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_d05dBBbNzLI/SfpPUIc6PNI/AAAAAAAADPE/HZGbt21gCNA/s320/IMG_1900.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5330660316231122130" style="display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 214px; " /></a></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_d05dBBbNzLI/SfpQw6QF8fI/AAAAAAAADPM/5wF_JuusG6U/s1600-h/IMG_1964.JPG"><img src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_d05dBBbNzLI/SfpQw6QF8fI/AAAAAAAADPM/5wF_JuusG6U/s320/IMG_1964.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5330661910147101170" style="display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 214px; " /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;">Our growing family!</div><div><br /></div><div><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_d05dBBbNzLI/SfpTERxYFCI/AAAAAAAADPU/tJUNefwGhMA/s1600-h/IMG_1992.JPG"><img src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_d05dBBbNzLI/SfpTERxYFCI/AAAAAAAADPU/tJUNefwGhMA/s320/IMG_1992.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5330664441901487138" style="display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 214px; " /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;">#1. Abby struggling to sit...</div><div><br /></div><div><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_d05dBBbNzLI/SfpTjYna99I/AAAAAAAADPc/7JWgq6UD5UI/s1600-h/IMG_1993.JPG"><img src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_d05dBBbNzLI/SfpTjYna99I/AAAAAAAADPc/7JWgq6UD5UI/s320/IMG_1993.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5330664976314726354" style="display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 214px; " /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;">#2. Working harder...</div><div><br /></div><div><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_d05dBBbNzLI/SfpU2e85liI/AAAAAAAADPk/S_CIv9YIcbo/s1600-h/IMG_1994.JPG"><img src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_d05dBBbNzLI/SfpU2e85liI/AAAAAAAADPk/S_CIv9YIcbo/s320/IMG_1994.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5330666403944568354" style="display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 214px; " /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;">#3. Sitting tall!</div></div></div>The Hull Munchkinshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05331288084181649305noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9171074545606489421.post-92004364412753343422009-04-24T14:03:00.006-05:002009-04-24T14:49:52.662-05:00Neurology results<div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_d05dBBbNzLI/SfIVneq10mI/AAAAAAAADMc/9EMc1Nsap-4/s1600-h/IMG_1726.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 214px; height: 320px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_d05dBBbNzLI/SfIVneq10mI/AAAAAAAADMc/9EMc1Nsap-4/s320/IMG_1726.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5328345077124551266" /></a><br />This morning we all went to visit Abby's neurologist for our appointment to discuss her ambulatory EEG results. It was a good visit with plenty of time to talk about all the details surrounding Abby's seizures.<div><br /></div><div>A quick rundown of what we discussed:</div><div><br /></div><div>- Yes, the new 'hair pulling, rapid breathing' behavior we have seen <span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: bold;">are</span> seizure events</div><div><br /></div><div>- Yes, every time we pressed the button while she wore the electrodes there was a seizure event happening</div><div><br /></div><div>- Abby's brain activity during a generalized seizure (tonic clonic) is not what is <span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-style: italic;">typically</span> found (epileptic spiking); instead her brain goes into "runs" of very rapid firing. This difference is related to her individual brain damage related to the grade IV brain bleed.</div><div><br /></div><div>- Abby has short periods of epileptic spiking even when there is no clinical evidence of a seizure; she said this is nothing to worry about, it's like having an extra heart beat every now and then. She's more concerned about the seizure activity with clinical signs.</div><div><br /></div><div>- There is asymmetry in the brain activity between the left and right hemispheres. Some slowing on the right side. She said this probably means most of her seizure activity is triggered by the right, temporal/occipital lobe area.</div><div><br /></div><div>- Yes, Keppra makes people cranky. Abby is on a pretty hefty dose, so it is very possible her sleepless nights and hours of fussing could be related to her medication increase. </div><div><br /></div><div>- Yes, we can discontinue the Lamictal. </div><div><br /></div><div>-Yes, we will need to try a new medication. It's called Banzel and is new on the market. She has several patients on it right now who have gotten very positive results.</div><div><br /></div><div><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_d05dBBbNzLI/SfIWappaz3I/AAAAAAAADMk/C_oDdcrt-nM/s1600-h/IMG_1717.JPG"><img src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_d05dBBbNzLI/SfIWappaz3I/AAAAAAAADMk/C_oDdcrt-nM/s320/IMG_1717.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5328345956244705138" style="display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 214px; " /></a></div><div><br /></div><div>The plan is to try the Banzel and slowly titrate up the dose for the next 6 weeks. We will keep close track of Abby's seizure activity during this time and meet again June 16. At that time Abby will have another ambulatory EEG done for 48 hours to see if there is any change.</div><div><br /></div><div>She also increased the VNS settings. It is programed for rapid cycling where the VNS fires on for 7 seconds and off for O.3 minutes. So, it goes off frequently for short spurts. I'm still trying to understand all the other numbers involved (mA, Hz etc.)</div><div><br /></div><div>We are hoping to see some improvement with this new medication. Although we would prefer to have Abby on less meds, seizure control is very important. The doctor explained that it is like trying to find the right "recipe" for Abby. Being on three medications that compliment each other and decrease seizure activity is better than being on less with poor control. That made sense to me.</div><div><br /></div><div>The next 6 weeks will be another test of sorts. Some of the side effects from Banzel are loss of appetite and trouble sleeping.</div><div><br /></div><div>We are praying that Abby's sleep will not be interrupted and that her body will adjust quickly to this new cocktail. </div>The Hull Munchkinshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05331288084181649305noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9171074545606489421.post-3029831686965178992009-04-21T13:55:00.004-05:002009-04-21T19:17:30.651-05:00Abby details and 29 weeks<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_d05dBBbNzLI/Se5hEhZWQ4I/AAAAAAAADMU/SciC5Po-zKk/s1600-h/DSC00037.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_d05dBBbNzLI/Se5hEhZWQ4I/AAAAAAAADMU/SciC5Po-zKk/s320/DSC00037.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5327302139537933186" /></a><br />This week we turn 29!! Gestation that is.<div><br /></div><div>Hopefully only 6 more p-17 shots, one more growth ultrasound and 11 more weeks to go. Of course we are shooting for 40 weeks, but we would be thrilled with anything past 36!</div><div><br /></div><div>I had a doctor's appointment yesterday where we discussed my contractions and such. She checked the "baby house" with ultrasound and found all to be as it was before. whew! We just never know. For most, contractions at this point can be totally benign and expected... but <span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-style: italic;">we</span> know all too well that it can also mean a silent disaster around the corner. This makes us all the more thankful for a watchful doctor who is willing to look into our concerns.</div><div><br /></div><div>At 29 weeks all is well!</div><div><br /></div><div>Our house is also slowly on the mend from the most recent cold. Abby is still very congested, but fortunately has avoided any pneumonia from developing. Her tummy has had lots of problems, but hopefully today we will see improvement. I am starting to feel better too.</div><div><br /></div><div>This Friday we will be meeting with Abby's neurologist to go over her EEG results. They called a few days ago to tell us to increase her Keppra dose. I'm not sure if this is coming from blood levels, the way her EEG looks or her most recent Big seizure. We shall see. It will be helpful to know more details about what her brain is doing during seizure events, but also with the different behavioral changes we've noticed. I'm not sure if Abby's treatment plan will change much, but we are hoping to <span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-style: italic;">Not</span> have to add another medication.</div><div><br /></div><div>Last week we took a trip to Birmingham to see the glaucoma specialist. Her eye measured exactly the same as it did 4 months ago, around 24. He said he could live with those numbers.</div><div><br /></div><div>She was such a brave girl as he poked her eye numerous times to get multiple readings. I think she knows when it is time to be brave, because in the waiting room it was a different story!! She was definitely upset and anticipating that something uncomfortable was about to happen.</div><div><br /></div><div>We will continue with the same two drops and will see him again in 6 months. </div><div><br /></div><div>As part of a requested evaluation for Abby through our school system, a teacher for the visually impaired (TVI) came for an assessment last week. It turned out to be very helpful! Some of these evals are just more of the same question and answer sessions with no new information for us. This guy actually gave us some suggestions on pre-braille activities and things to work on toward better communication. So, that was encouraging.</div><div><br /></div>The Hull Munchkinshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05331288084181649305noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9171074545606489421.post-88278441973672927622009-04-15T18:47:00.007-05:002009-04-15T20:33:10.873-05:0028 weeks<div style="text-align: left;">Our new baby now has his eyes open and weighs over 2 lbs! We are still thinking about names. Now that he is getting to a safer gestation it's more fun to explore names. There are a few we both like but haven't settled on one yet.<br /></div><div><br /></div><div><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_d05dBBbNzLI/SeZzirUwOLI/AAAAAAAADLo/pklaYMtVnqk/s1600-h/IMG_1714.JPG"><img src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_d05dBBbNzLI/SeZzirUwOLI/AAAAAAAADLo/pklaYMtVnqk/s320/IMG_1714.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5325070648994707634" style="display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 214px; " /></a></div><div><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">This is about how we are all feeling this week. </div><div><br /></div><div>Josiah started the sickness this week, and Abby followed by stressing us out with her big seizure. Now we all have this nasty cold and are feeling lousy.</div><div><br /></div><div>Abby has been pretty out of it since Monday's excitement. Diastat always affects her for several days... she feels like a rag doll and is not very alert. The fever plus the other symptoms just really wipe her out. Her tummy has been pretty upset too, so we turned down her pump rate to keep her comfortable but hydrated.</div><div><br /></div><div>Her fever is down today which makes us happy.</div><div><br /></div><div>Here are a few pictures of the kids on Easter Sunday. </div><div><br /></div><div><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_d05dBBbNzLI/SeZ3JCws4nI/AAAAAAAADMA/XEF_yb2fRQY/s1600-h/IMG_1706.JPG"><img src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_d05dBBbNzLI/SeZ3JCws4nI/AAAAAAAADMA/XEF_yb2fRQY/s320/IMG_1706.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5325074606655857266" style="display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 214px; " /></a></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_d05dBBbNzLI/SeZ2hi-fMoI/AAAAAAAADL4/EvrPAa6NCJQ/s1600-h/IMG_1707.JPG"><img src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_d05dBBbNzLI/SeZ2hi-fMoI/AAAAAAAADL4/EvrPAa6NCJQ/s320/IMG_1707.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5325073928108847746" style="display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 214px; height: 320px; " /></a></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_d05dBBbNzLI/SeZ1ktAKdiI/AAAAAAAADLw/VAZ0V_subq4/s1600-h/IMG_1710.JPG"><img src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_d05dBBbNzLI/SeZ1ktAKdiI/AAAAAAAADLw/VAZ0V_subq4/s320/IMG_1710.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5325072882828211746" style="display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 214px; " /></a></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_d05dBBbNzLI/SeaJNAANNhI/AAAAAAAADMI/FKRyGJhMLAs/s1600-h/IMG_1709.JPG"><img src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_d05dBBbNzLI/SeaJNAANNhI/AAAAAAAADMI/FKRyGJhMLAs/s320/IMG_1709.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5325094465844360722" style="display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 214px; height: 320px; " /></a></div>The Hull Munchkinshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05331288084181649305noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9171074545606489421.post-30100636693914009312009-04-13T16:39:00.005-05:002009-04-13T17:27:03.616-05:00ER<div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_d05dBBbNzLI/SeO1VH03YJI/AAAAAAAADLY/cjVduAaHYHY/s1600-h/0413090835.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_d05dBBbNzLI/SeO1VH03YJI/AAAAAAAADLY/cjVduAaHYHY/s320/0413090835.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5324298558964719762" /></a><br />After 6 months of ER avoidance, we made an unexpected trip there this morning. Abby spiked a 103+ temp early this morning.<div><br /></div><div>She woke up a little before 6 am. As soon as I saw her I knew she was Sick. Within minutes she quickly went into a status (prolonged) seizure. After some very fast Tylenol and Diastat we loaded up and headed to the hospital.</div><div><br /></div><div>The seizure stopped while en-route, but she was struggling to breathe. A nurse met us at the door and quickly got her hooked up to monitors etc. They did all the usual blood draw for labs, IV fluids, O2, chest x-ray, head CT and more. She needed oxygen for about 2+ hours and got a breathing treatment which helped.</div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_d05dBBbNzLI/SeO12alybmI/AAAAAAAADLg/9ADjUlyzFKQ/s1600-h/0413090833.jpg"><img src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_d05dBBbNzLI/SeO12alybmI/AAAAAAAADLg/9ADjUlyzFKQ/s320/0413090833.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5324299130937437794" style="display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px; " /></a></div><div><br /></div><div>All of her tests came back ok. Her WBC were a little elevated so she got a dose of Rocephin.</div><div><br /></div><div>Once she held her O2 sats ok on her own without O2 we got to take her home. She has been very lethargic and sleepy all day. Her fever is better controlled with meds and hopefully we can just ride this virus out over the next few days.</div><div><br /></div><div>Josiah has been a little sick too.</div><div><br /></div><div>This will be a week of more down time now that we can cancel our many appointments. Not such a bad thing every now and then.</div>The Hull Munchkinshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05331288084181649305noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9171074545606489421.post-42855936719851585132009-04-08T17:02:00.003-05:002009-04-09T08:21:50.829-05:00New Tube<iframe allowfullscreen='allowfullscreen' webkitallowfullscreen='webkitallowfullscreen' mozallowfullscreen='mozallowfullscreen' width='320' height='266' src='https://www.blogger.com/video.g?token=AD6v5dyG-lUpHjIH2sEqf01uHQFN7I4x7vDXCspTQdsPqOzM1o2KYnCPFbxnZXvj5IpHzosz86tEkanLGW13n7gsTQ' class='b-hbp-video b-uploaded' frameborder='0'></iframe><div><br /></div><div>(Yesterday)</div><div><br /></div><div>Abby's GJ-tube replacement procedure went very smoothly! They fit us in this afternoon, even if they were an hour behind schedule. We were just thankful to get it done today. Abby seemed uncomfortable last night with the slow drip into her stomach.</div><div><br /></div><div>They didn't do IV sedation this time which surprised us... the last two procedures they did. The doctor came to get her himself and carried her to the procedure room. He was so sweet to Abby. He said she probably wouldn't need deep sedation. It took about 20 minutes. They must have given her something through her tube to relax her or something b/c she came back a little groggy, and he mentioned that she slept through the most uncomfortable part.</div><div><br /></div><div>She was SO hungry by 2 pm when they finally took her back, after not having anything all morning. While we waited, Patrick distracted her by tickling. That was the only thing that helped her stop moaning, even if for just a minute.</div><div><br /></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-style: italic;">Baby <a href="http://maplesfam.blogspot.com/">Hunter</a> will probably be having surgery soon. Please continue to pray for him and his family.</span></div>The Hull Munchkinshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05331288084181649305noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9171074545606489421.post-75736069194123674872009-04-07T20:58:00.008-05:002009-04-07T21:52:53.793-05:00Another new tube<div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_d05dBBbNzLI/SdwJWOSYfOI/AAAAAAAADK4/uCYGLfqXhf4/s1600-h/IMG_1655.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 214px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_d05dBBbNzLI/SdwJWOSYfOI/AAAAAAAADK4/uCYGLfqXhf4/s320/IMG_1655.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5322139137042054370" /></a><br />Abby's weekend (ambulatory) EEG is over and it was able to capture at least 6 tonic clonic seizures and other questionable behavior. The doctor should have plenty of data to examine and hopefully we will hear soon what we are dealing with. Abby seemed rather unhappy most of the weekend and of course tired from all the seizures. <div><br /></div><div><div><br /></div><div><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_d05dBBbNzLI/SdwKpgN6t1I/AAAAAAAADLI/vPoSnxn7fuk/s1600-h/IMG_1658.JPG"><img src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_d05dBBbNzLI/SdwKpgN6t1I/AAAAAAAADLI/vPoSnxn7fuk/s320/IMG_1658.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5322140567784306514" style="display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 214px; height: 320px; " /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;">(Finally happy snuggling with Connie after an hour of fussing in bed)</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div><div><br /></div><div><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_d05dBBbNzLI/SdwJ1yKJiXI/AAAAAAAADLA/7BXGZX5V8fw/s1600-h/IMG_1663.JPG"><img src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_d05dBBbNzLI/SdwJ1yKJiXI/AAAAAAAADLA/7BXGZX5V8fw/s320/IMG_1663.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5322139679247141234" style="display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 214px; " /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;">(Wearing Josiah's batman cap to help keep the wrap on her head)</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div><div><br /></div><div><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_d05dBBbNzLI/SdwLuTe6vmI/AAAAAAAADLQ/Ksu1mX-oaV4/s1600-h/IMG_1675.JPG"><img src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_d05dBBbNzLI/SdwLuTe6vmI/AAAAAAAADLQ/Ksu1mX-oaV4/s320/IMG_1675.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5322141749776924258" style="display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 214px; " /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;">(Scrubbing the stinky glue out of her hair... she gave some cute smiles)</div><div><br /></div><div>We enjoyed some fun time with Aunt Connie and (soon to be) Uncle Matt! The kids loved lots of cuddle time and plenty of extra attention. Thanks for coming to visit guys! Can't wait for the wedding!</div><div><br /></div><div>Well, today we had some unexpected excitement. Abby's J port came out some time during our transit from UCP therapy and home. We found her soaked with milk once we got home... she tried to tell us, but of course we were clueless. </div><div><br /></div><div>This has happened a few times in the last 6 months and we have been able to "pop" it back into place. (the tube itself is still in place) Not this time. It is broken. The rest of the afternoon we continued to soak up drainage coming from the open port while we waited several hours for the nurse to call us back. Finally she called to tell us that she wasn't able to make an appointment yet to have the GJ button replaced. </div><div><br /></div><div>Because it was leaking so much we had to take out the entire tube and replace it with a temporary G-tube. It went fairly smoothly although uncomfortable for Abby. I always have a moment of inner panic/turmoil during these events, worrying that something might go wrong and cause more pain for my little girl. Thankfully she is now being fed VERY slowly into her stomach to prevent reflux and dehydration while we wait for a replacement. </div><div><br /></div><div>It's been over 1.5 years since we have fed her into her stomach (G port)... she isn't used to it. The nurse should be calling tomorrow to let us know when her replacement procedure is scheduled. She will be put to sleep again and won't remember the event. The IV stick is the worst part for Abby.</div><div><br /></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-style: italic;">Please pray</span> for baby <a href="http://maplesfam.blogspot.com/">Hunter</a>. Patrick's cousin and best friend Bill and his wife Shannon just had a beautiful baby boy 3 weeks ago. He is having tummy problems and might need surgery soon. <span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-style: italic;">Pray</span> for wisdom for parents and docs, as well as a smooth procedure if it is required.</div></div></div></div>The Hull Munchkinshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05331288084181649305noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9171074545606489421.post-71957177132215655912009-04-03T16:24:00.008-05:002009-04-03T17:04:15.233-05:00Our gauze baby<div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_d05dBBbNzLI/SdaDIgWKIVI/AAAAAAAADJ4/TjbC-DjYKHM/s1600-h/IMG_1634.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 214px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_d05dBBbNzLI/SdaDIgWKIVI/AAAAAAAADJ4/TjbC-DjYKHM/s320/IMG_1634.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5320584191929885010" /></a><br />Abby had her EEG put on today. She did great except for some loud yelling when I had to hold her head still.<div><br /></div><div><div><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_d05dBBbNzLI/SdaDjyJeY3I/AAAAAAAADKA/M-Yc6NWvDAc/s1600-h/DSC00010.JPG"><img src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_d05dBBbNzLI/SdaDjyJeY3I/AAAAAAAADKA/M-Yc6NWvDAc/s320/DSC00010.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5320584660564992882" style="display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px; " /></a></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_d05dBBbNzLI/SdaDqdm22wI/AAAAAAAADKI/kPk9ZGMJr5k/s1600-h/DSC00012.JPG"><img src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_d05dBBbNzLI/SdaDqdm22wI/AAAAAAAADKI/kPk9ZGMJr5k/s320/DSC00012.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5320584775310170882" style="display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px; " /></a></div><div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 238); text-decoration: underline;"><br /></span></div><div>The tech wrapped her head in gauze, but not tightly enough! Argh! Now we are home and she is doing her usual head rubbing against the cough and the gauze has come loose and is slipping off. I've tried to fix it with an ace bandage and more gauze but to no avail. Patrick is coming home soon to help me re-wrap our darling's little head. <br /></div><div><br /></div><div>You'd be amazed at how quick and sneaky those little hands are! I'll be surprised if these wires stay in place for the next 2 days.</div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_d05dBBbNzLI/SdaDwJdD5cI/AAAAAAAADKQ/B_kEVpiQ8Xw/s1600-h/DSC00014.JPG"><img src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_d05dBBbNzLI/SdaDwJdD5cI/AAAAAAAADKQ/B_kEVpiQ8Xw/s320/DSC00014.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5320584872979588546" style="display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px; " /></a></div><div><br /></div><div>She looks pretty funny right now with a large tuft of hair and colorful wires sprouting out the top of her head wrap.</div><div><br /></div><div>Her blood levels for Keppra and Zonagran came back... the Keppra level was appropriate, but the Zonagran was a little low. The doctor wants to wait for the EEG results before making any medication adjustments.</div><div><br /></div><div>Praying that this test will reveal Abby's true seizure activity and will give us a better interpretation into her behavior. <br /></div><div><div><br /></div></div><div>Looking forward to a fun weekend with Aunt Connie & (soon to be) Uncle Matt!</div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_d05dBBbNzLI/SdaEMSZyjpI/AAAAAAAADKY/MCt-40Gce5g/s1600-h/IMG_1646.JPG"><img src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_d05dBBbNzLI/SdaEMSZyjpI/AAAAAAAADKY/MCt-40Gce5g/s320/IMG_1646.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5320585356418125458" style="display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 214px; " /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;">(tuckered out from this mornings excitement)</div></div>The Hull Munchkinshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05331288084181649305noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9171074545606489421.post-85369965404171592022009-04-02T13:02:00.011-05:002009-04-02T14:03:28.931-05:0026 Weeks<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_d05dBBbNzLI/SdULRVT9oeI/AAAAAAAADJw/HVdWas5wkaw/s1600-h/IMG_1334.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 214px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_d05dBBbNzLI/SdULRVT9oeI/AAAAAAAADJw/HVdWas5wkaw/s320/IMG_1334.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5320170927214666210" /></a><br /><div style="text-align: center;">Now we are in the 26th week. It's pretty exciting getting closer and closer to "safety". I'm sure we probably seem overly obsessed with our pregnancy progress, but anyone who has had a preemie would understand. Every day can make all the difference! <br /></div><div><br /></div><div>I can't believe it's April! Yippeee!</div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_d05dBBbNzLI/SdUJACe_99I/AAAAAAAADJQ/pnGqe8m0O3s/s1600-h/IMG_1331.JPG"><img src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_d05dBBbNzLI/SdUJACe_99I/AAAAAAAADJQ/pnGqe8m0O3s/s320/IMG_1331.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5320168431079651282" style="display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 214px; height: 320px; " /></a></div><div><br /></div><div>Over the past several weeks we've been working with one of Abby's PT's (physical therapist) to get her fitted for a new gait trainer. We finally settled on the <a href="http://www.primeengineering.com/files/kidwlk.pdf">Kid Walk</a> model and actually filled out the order form this week! Hopefully it will show up anywhere from 6-8 weeks. </div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_d05dBBbNzLI/SdUJXvaGzFI/AAAAAAAADJY/jRdC_-jg-S8/s1600-h/IMG_1329.JPG"><img src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_d05dBBbNzLI/SdUJXvaGzFI/AAAAAAAADJY/jRdC_-jg-S8/s320/IMG_1329.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5320168838275714130" style="display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 214px; height: 320px; " /></a></div><div><br /></div><div>She seemed to do pretty well in it during our practice sessions. It has some neat features such as bouncing action, hip sway side to side during walking, and large wheels for the child to push themselves. She obviously can't propel herself yet using the wheels, but she does put her hands on them and shows interest.</div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_d05dBBbNzLI/SdUJ_xxdLfI/AAAAAAAADJg/dHwxkjnFfC0/s1600-h/IMG_1326.JPG"><img src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_d05dBBbNzLI/SdUJ_xxdLfI/AAAAAAAADJg/dHwxkjnFfC0/s320/IMG_1326.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5320169526105288178" style="display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 214px; height: 320px; " /></a></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_d05dBBbNzLI/SdUKikt-MnI/AAAAAAAADJo/ggwW4W4u0-o/s1600-h/IMG_1333.JPG"><img src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_d05dBBbNzLI/SdUKikt-MnI/AAAAAAAADJo/ggwW4W4u0-o/s320/IMG_1333.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5320170123896435314" style="display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 214px; " /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;">(<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-style: italic;">Josiah playing with Gigai at UCP during therapy)</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div>Tomorrow we go back to the neurologist to have another ambulatory EEG placed. Abby will wear the wires all weekend to record seizure activity. Hopefully it will pick up what we have been seeing lately. Abby has done better this week and has had fewer seizures. Although this sounds weird, I hope she has those strange seizures during the test so the doctor can give us some answers and we can form a good treatment plan.</div>The Hull Munchkinshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05331288084181649305noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9171074545606489421.post-41925091289548239342009-03-30T22:00:00.005-05:002009-03-30T23:18:37.241-05:00Happy Birthday Josiah!!We have a three year old!<div><br /></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-style: italic;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: bold;">This year Josiah has</span></span>...</div><div><br /></div><div>Chosen Veggie Tales as his favorite movie</div><div>Psalty and Andrew Peterson as his favorite music (esp "Matthew Begats")</div><div>Learned to swim</div><div>Potty trained!! </div><div>Loves to help Daddy tinker in the garage</div><div>Says he wants to be an astronaut</div><div>Perfected special "chores" to help Abby... bringing cans of milk, getting her toys</div><div>Graduated to a Big Boy bed</div><div>Prays that Abby will learn to walk and see</div><div><br /></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-style: italic;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: bold;">Funny things he says.</span></span>..</div><div><br /></div><div>"Blanklet" (Blanket)</div><div>"ipop" (ipod), "puter" (computer), "Mary and Jofus" (Mary and Joseph)</div><div>"Hey dad, are you in the know?"<br /></div><div>"Mommy, is your hair brown like my poopy?"</div><div>When put in time out will cry and say "mommy, will you pray for me?"</div><div>While sitting on the potty asks "Will you tell me a story?"... to stall</div><div>Asks select people if they have a baby in their tummy like mommy</div><div>Prefers "clean" cow to "dirty" cow for snuggling. (clean cow is much dirtier!)</div><div>Named his rocking horse "paco".</div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: bold;">Josiah's Birthday Movie</span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: bold;"><br /></span></div><div>(pause blog music @ bottom of page first)</div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><iframe allowfullscreen='allowfullscreen' webkitallowfullscreen='webkitallowfullscreen' mozallowfullscreen='mozallowfullscreen' width='320' height='266' src='https://www.blogger.com/video.g?token=AD6v5dxV77VzcOfhp7okmCNl-xcQDfSH5WtxBhZWcCFIiLp6FAWHBjlZ1U3bT77M3if9u0Zqly_2gKOcl9V1-OJT4g' class='b-hbp-video b-uploaded' frameborder='0'></iframe>The Hull Munchkinshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05331288084181649305noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9171074545606489421.post-56490623402056788952009-03-25T14:00:00.005-05:002009-03-25T23:48:03.193-05:0025 Weeks, and more seizures<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_d05dBBbNzLI/ScqGe7VRb8I/AAAAAAAADIw/LrLxNX-YeE0/s1600-h/IMG_1214.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 214px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_d05dBBbNzLI/ScqGe7VRb8I/AAAAAAAADIw/LrLxNX-YeE0/s320/IMG_1214.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5317210175945404354" /></a><br />We've made it to <span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: bold;">25</span> <span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: bold;">weeks</span>! I am so thrilled. Our baby's eyes might start opening by the end of this week. Abby's eyes were fused shut when she was born and didn't open for a while. <div><br /></div><div>I remember a 25 weeker born soon after Abby who "lived" across the aisle from Abby. She was breathing all on her own and was throwing the biggest and tiniest screaming fit I had ever seen in her isolette. Her eyes were wide open. It was almost unbelievable that a baby so small (probably under 2 lbs) could be so feisty and healthy. <div><br /></div><div>(<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-style: italic;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size:medium;">For those who have given birth to a 25 wkr, I am by no means saying that all 25 wkr's are this fortunate. I just like to remember that baby during this time of my pregnancy, encouraged by the gestational mark we have achieved</span></span>!) <br /><div><br /></div><div>I saw that baby again after Abby was discharged from the NICU and attending a therapy program in Knoxville for ex-preemies. She was very healthy looking, just tiny. </div><div><br /></div><div>Abby definitely seems to be having new seizure activity. I spoke with the neurologist's nurse today about what we have been seeing. The doctor has ordered blood tests to check her Keppra and Zonegran levels. We asked for another EEG but I'm not sure that will happen any time soon. Hopefully we can get the labs drawn without too much drama this afternoon.</div><div><br /></div><div>For those interested, the new seizures she is having are <a href="http://www.epilepsy.com/EPILEPSY/seizure_absence">Absence seizures</a> and probably <a href="http://www.epilepsy.com/EPILEPSY/SEIZURE_COMPLEXPARTIAL">Complex Partial seizures</a>. She has had Absence seizures before, but they have become more frequent lately. When she has these it's like she is in a daze, "staring" off to the left and unable to respond to us for 10-20 seconds.</div><div><br /></div><div> The new seizure activity manifests itself through "<a href="http://www.epilepsy.com/EPILEPSY/SEIZURE_COMPLEXPARTIAL">automatisms</a>" and rapid breathing. (<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-style: italic;">automatism: unconscious and repetitive movements</span>). For Abby, it looks like she is gently bringing her hair over her face on the left side, over and over again while turning her head from side to side. She also seems agitated during and after the seizure. They only last about 15 seconds and are sometimes hard to recognize.</div><div><br /></div><div>We think because she is having more seizures daily that her behavior is being affected. She has been more "out of it" than usual, not cooperating during therapy or activities and just wanting to be left alone. She's also been sleeping more than normal, and is often agitated when she is awake.</div><div><br /></div><div>We are really hoping that we won't have to go back up on the Lamictal again. But, of course we want what is best for our little sweetie, even if it means more drugs. With Abby it's been very difficult to find that delicate balance b/w seizure management/drugs and healthy development. </div><div>The drugs probably keep her out of the hospital, but they also have side effects which contribute to all sorts of set backs.</div><div><br /></div><div>I'm watching her now as she sleeps off one of her tonic clonic seizures. It really breaks our hearts.</div></div></div>The Hull Munchkinshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05331288084181649305noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9171074545606489421.post-79595899089951161932009-03-23T18:07:00.004-05:002009-03-23T18:27:49.209-05:00Our piece of Earth<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_d05dBBbNzLI/ScgaG7woXlI/AAAAAAAADIo/E4xuAqIrKqE/s1600-h/IMG_5990.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 214px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_d05dBBbNzLI/ScgaG7woXlI/AAAAAAAADIo/E4xuAqIrKqE/s320/IMG_5990.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5316528066534071890" /><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0); ">(If you look past some trees you can make out some of the view)</span><br /></div></a><div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div>Today we are officially land owners!<div><br /></div><div>Patrick has always dreamed of having a "farm". Some dear friends of ours live on a mountain nearby and have some beautiful property over looking the valley. </div><div><br /></div><div>We bought a 20 acre piece near them on the mountain and are really looking forward to spending time up there enjoying nature and the gorgeous view together! It's still rugged enough that we can't easily take the kids near the bluff for a picnic yet. Soon we hope to clear some of it and put in a gravel road so that we can go as a family for some out door relaxation.</div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_d05dBBbNzLI/ScgZAXb9emI/AAAAAAAADIg/VxITdDg13Q4/s1600-h/IMG_0771.JPG"><img src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_d05dBBbNzLI/ScgZAXb9emI/AAAAAAAADIg/VxITdDg13Q4/s320/IMG_0771.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5316526854192855650" style="display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 214px; " /></a></div><div><br /></div><div>Celebrations at home tonight with grilled cheeses!</div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div></div>The Hull Munchkinshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05331288084181649305noreply@blogger.com1