12 Jan 2006
Still nothing
I am just posting a note so you all will know there really isn't any news on our end.. John had an appointment Monday (16 Jan) with the clinic regarding some of his many test results, but it was cancelled as it wasnt an issue and all is well! Yeah! They are going to get a prescription sent to Amber for birth control pills for her to start taking when she starts her cycle in March ! I know it seems like a long time away but it will be here sooner than we all expect... We continue to struggle with how the "outside" world just doesn't function nearly as efficiently as the military.. John really struggles with this more than I do but I am sure that is because I am 1/2 in that other world and have been dealing with it for years now.. :) Amber and the girls are missing Mitch...(but today is one day closer to him being home) it seems Bailey is really taking it hard this time and it is in turn making it even harder on Amber.. I wish I could just wrap my arms around all three of you and make the pain and fear go away.. Know you are in our thoughts and prayers!! I don't have any news on Sharelle and Randy's journey.. and as of Christmas, Tina was doing very well and looking cute as always with her little one inside.. I will keep you all updated as information is known.. Please keep all the deployed soldiers and families in your prayers as well, Sharelle, Randy and Tina (and Little Jackson) Love you all Carolyn (and John)
Posted on 12 Jan 2006 at 6:40 AM
4 Feb 2006
Update from Amber
HI ALL! Sorry it has been a while since I last posted an update. Mitch and I had our psych evals done on 2 Jan. (also Mitch's birthday) of course he wasn't thrilled with the process but he went and did answer the questions she asked him... I appreciate his support in all of this. I know that was the last thing he wanted to do let alone on his birthday and 2 days before he deployed. The next couple of days were hard. We knew he would soon be leaving and as much as you try to just enjoy every minute, you can't escape thinking about the big picture. He departed the morning of 4 Jan and I'm sure I cried enough tears to make up for lack of rain we have been experiencing here over the past few months! :) He seems to be doing very well. Homsickness is starting to sink in as the newness of being there wears off... You may remember 2 weeks ago hearing of a car bomb that killed two AF security forces members as well as nearly 2 dozen Iraqi police. Last weekend they had a memorial service for the two. Mitch was very effected by this. Many of you may not know that he was a Security Forces member for nearly 6 years. He still is very attached to unit and it hit him hard that 2 of his brothers had fallen. I ask that you all say a prayer for all of our Armed forces members. It is an unsellfish act that the give every day by volunteering to be our defenders of freedom. Thank you to all members past and present. If not for you, this country would not be the great nation that she is. He seems to be doing well now and we are excited to have made it through just about 1/4 of the deployment! As Carolyn stated in her last post. I received a prescription for birth control pills to begin with my cycle next month. It will be GREAT to get this going and move on to the part I know we're all waiting for.... John and Carolyn's miracle! Bailey celebrated her 3rd birthday on 30 Jan. She had a blast, as always. It's so easy to please at this age! Big thanks to John and Carolyn for the birthday card. She gets so excited to get her OWN mail!!! While we're on the subject, HAPPY belated BIRTHDAY JOHN!!! There's not a whole lot to report on the surrogacy front but in a short while you'll all be sick and tired of hearing about me poking myself, and of all the pregnancy tests Carolyn and I will be taking! Yes I say Carolyn and I because I've told her I'm going to get a web cam and call her before I test so she can watch the test develop! She may tell me to stop after calling her 3 or 4 nights in a row around 3 A.M. LOL!!! I am so excited to have been made a small part of helping create this addition to such a Wonderful family. Carolyn, thank you so much for always being here for me. You're love and support especially through the last few months has been indescribable. I am lucky to have you for a friend. Thank you both for letting me take this journey with you! HUGS and LOVE to all! Amber
Posted on 4 Feb 2006 at 2:07 PM
7 Feb 2006
Time lines and education...
Well... Sorry, I know it has been a while since I posted anything, due to in part, no real news... I still don’t have any "real" news but I do have a tentative timeline that you all might be interested in and some information as to what is about to happen... :-) On a side note, I am getting SO excited about all of this.. I don’t know if it has just hit me or the new year or what, but I feel as if I am just beaming already... (Kind of a weird place for me it seems) I have been watching all these shows (just by chance) about multiples and problem pregnancies and even though most are very tough and rather emotional to watch it makes me feel so much more close to actually being a mom... Weird? I hope not... So here is the "initial timeline" (this can and most likely will change at least to some degree... ) Amber will call the clinic when she starts her period in March, which she thinks will be on or around March 13th... three days after that (the 16th) she will begin taking birth control pills to stop her from ovulating... she will begin Lupron injections at some point (The cycle calendar states "when the IVF nurse calls her", making sure she is in sync with the egg donor) When she starts lupron she will stop taking the bcp and begin taking estrogen. I believe she will take both lupron and the estrogen for two weeks. Next the fun stuff, the progesterone, an intra-muscular injection, begins and will continue until she is at least 8 weeks pregnant ... sorry Amber... :-( So, back to the timeline… according to the IFV coordinator, 8 weeks after Amber starts and calls + three days will be the transfer date for the embryos!!! (May 11th) ...And 10-14 days after than we will know if we are pregnant!!! But of course Amber will be testing from day 1 I am sure... heck I might test too just for the fun of it! Haha… Three weeks after transfer Amber will have blood work to determine if she is pregnant and if she is she will have an ultrasound at this point we will already be 6 weeks pregnant! Don’t ask me how they do the math but that is what the sheet tells me!!! If all goes as planned, we will have GREAT news for John’s change of command June 14th (actually before then) and will be expecting a bundle of joy the end of January of 2007! … How exciting… I am just so excited… we ordered the meds for amber today… so we are really on the way and the ball is rolling!! Love to you all… Keep Mitch and all the men and women of our military in your prayers as well as Tina & the baby and Sharelle & Randy... we want you guys to be pregnant with us!!! Carolyn
Posted on 7 Feb 2006 at 12:03 PM
Anonymous 6 month wait. Posted on 12 Feb 2006 6:39 PM
There are some clinics that don't require a 6 month wait. The FDA regulation is interpreted so many ways. Some clinics believe that if the donor and surrogate know each other , then they are not unanimous and the waiting period doesn't apply. Some believe that because the donor and surrogate are not related, then they are unanimous and the wait would apply. I went through the same thing but had to switch clinics because of this issue. good luck.
1 Mar 2006
Spring Inbound
I had a few minutes this morning so I thought I would make a short entry. I think all of us are thinking the same thing based on the weather we have had this week - Spring is Inbound! I know Carolyn and I are looking forward to the warmer weather. We have such an exciting time coming up - Amber starts meds this month, we will be transferring in May and taking command of the Army's most elite MH-47 Battalion in June. We are working more and more to prepare ourselves for each of these events. Our latest home project consists of ripping out the carpet upstairs and installing wood laminate floors. We hope that this will keep the allergens down for the sake of the baby (and Gran Evans who is allergic to cats). Although we have not started "preparing the nursery" yet (we don't want to jinx ourselves), we do have a room picked out and I am quite sure Carolyn has her ideas about what she wants to do in there. We continue to be blessed in so many ways in our lives. Each of you (family members and friends) that reads this posting is an integral part of that blessing and we thank you for the part you play in our lives and this journey. We ask that everyone please keep Sharon's grandfather in their thoughts. He has suffer a physical set back of late and can use your prayers. On the brighter side - Happy Anniversary to Jason and Virginia (26 February) and we look forward to Samuel's 2nd big birthday on 12 March - the last that he will spend as an only child - little brother Jackson will be here in April! May God continue to bless each and every one of you. John (and Carolyn)
Posted on 1 Mar 2006 at 10:10 AM
18 Mar 2006
Being southern...
I ask you, how can anyone not want to be southern? Thursday I went to a FRG meeting (family readiness group) with several other military spouses and a few soldiers and had a conversation with one lady regarding her husband going to Korea for an unaccompanied tour for one year. I asked her what was she going to do and she joyfully said, "I am going home!" ... I cant say I wouldn’t do the same thing if in her shoes but when she continued to go on and on about how much she disliked it here and couldn’t wait to get back to New York is when I got offended... I know she had no clue I am a native Tennessean, especially being in the military where everyone is from somewhere else but I am from Tennessee and quite frankly LOVE IT HERE... not just because my family is here or because "here" is my home but because there isn’t a better place in the world than the south... Regardless of what some of you might think… Coincidentally, last night John and I were watching "Elizabethtown", a movie which happens to be about Elizabethtown Kentucky but we didn’t know that when we rented it... anyway, it is about a man who loses his father while his father is visiting his "home", Elizabethtown KY... He, the son has to make the trip from the left coast to Elizabethtown to make plans because his mother just can’t deal with it and because the father’s family disliked her. (I can stay I don’t blame them, it was Susan Sarandon playing the role) He then becomes overwhelmed with the love for his father and for each other that was everywhere in this town...how the town was basically a family … something he hadn’t experienced living out west… Living in the south is just different… Despite the fact it had two HUGE Liberals in the movie, (Sarandon and one of the idiot Baldwin boys, great soundtrack though, go to the web site and hear it) and produced by a total fruit cake (Tom Cruise) it was really well done and we both enjoyed it... My point is while watching the scenes about the funeral and memorial, everyone gathering and telling stories in wonderful southern accents (including my favorite southern chef Paula Dean) John proclaimed, "why would anyone NOT want to be southern?" I told him about my encounter with the New Yorker at the FRG meeting and how much she hated being here and that her kids were made fun of because they talk to fast?? (I am accused of that all the time and I am from here?? I don’t get that stereotype but I guess it is one? ....) Back to the point... To answer Johns question I said, " because those that aren’t FROM the south will never be southern.... they all come here for one reason or another, the weather, a job, the military… they like it but never try to be southern. Always trying to stay New Yorkers or “Yankees” for lack of a better word (sorry if I offend anyone... you know I still love you!) for some reason, fighting to never say "ya'll" or have any remote southern twang... Even encouraging their children to not speak with an accent as well... and they just don’t fit in. They think we sound "ignorant" or slow but to be frank I have NEVER talked to a New Yorker or a Bostonian and thought they were bright... For a "Yankee" to call the southern accent "ignorant" is the pot calling the kettle black... What is wrong with taking life slowly? Isn’t that the argument with southerners being “slow” … or not being in a hurry all the time? Why be in a hurry? What is so important that you have to rush though life to get to it? When all you have done is MISSED IT?… I hear people talk about how bad the drivers are in the south… well let me tell you, it isn’t the southerners driving bad, it is the “transplants” that think they can drive like they are on the 5 going 100 mph or in Time Square honking their horns that are the bad drivers… the southerner is the one in the right hand lane going 60 mph in a 65 mph zone… Just think about that the next time you year a child talk “southern” or see an old man in a beat-up pick-up truck driving slower than he should on the interstate… what is the hurry and what is the harm in saying “Ya’ll?”
Posted on 18 Mar 2006 at 3:59 PM
19 Mar 2006
Two updates in two days! wow..
Ok.. .after my last rant about being southern I will post something that has to do with our journey.. :-) I have taken several days to calm down after hearing the news that I am about to share so hopefully I wont be as upset as I was last week... Amber called Kelli (the Nurse at the clinic) last week to find out what the time line was for her and taking her meds... she had already started birth control pills but hadn't heard for how long and was only given one month's worth. Kelli then told her to stop taking the BCP because the Docs have decided to wait until our egg donors April period. I didn't initially realize what this meant until Amber said Kelli told her we wouldn't be transferring until June... NOT May like we thought... I reacted (overracted, some might say) and was ready to dump the clinic and find another egg donor... I really didn't feel as if I could trust the clinic with the huge sum of money we are paying them to do what we expect... John and I are big on communication (as well is Amber) and for Kelli to tell Amber this but not tell me (even when I had left her both an email and a voice mail) sent me though the roof... I don't mind in the slightest Amber getting information, even information before I get it but Kelli never called me until John highly suggested she do so... So, after John calmed me down and I had to let go of any sort of control, I have decided to fill everyone in on our egg donor.. Here are the facts from John's email to me; The egg donor did one transfer in Chicago before coming to our clinic - She has done 3 transfers in Nashville, we will be her 5th cycle - There is a limit of 6 (or 7) cycles for the egg donors and no known risk to the donor. In fact, Kelli said that it is usually not the later cycles that produce poor results, but cycles 2 or 3 that tend to "surprise" people with poor egg quality. I thought the more you donate, the higher probability of poor egg quality... not so! - Dr. Whitworth made the decision to hold her off until her April menses, but Kelli thinks she will start her period this week. (this is technically last week) - She will be on BCP just long enough to preclude the formation of a cyst, then she will get ready to cycle again. - I told Kelli that 14 June would be a monumentally poor day to do the transfer and explained to her about the CofC. Currently she believes that retrieval will happen the last week of May and that transfer should occur on June 4, 5, 6 (ballpark). I told her that if all the planets aligned against us and the transfer HAD to happen on 14 June for whatever reason - it needed to happen at 1400 or later - she said she should be able to work that, but plans to deconflict the date altogether. Just think, if it does happen the week of the 14, you will all be here for the CofC AND the transfer!! how exciting... :-) - I asked her if we should use another donor because our gal will be entering her 5th cycle and she said our best chances are probably with this ED because of her proven track record. She considers her a very good donor with great results. Kelli said it is not uncommon to have an ED with about a 50% pregnancy percentage rate. Our ED has had a pregnancy with each couple except one (I'll explain more below). - Our donor's history: 1) 1st cycle in Chicago - no information available about eggs, embryos or pregnancies 2) 2nd cycle (1st one with Nashville Fertility Clinic) - Sep 05 - no split - produced 33 eggs - 15 fertilized - 2 embryos implanted - 4 embryos to storage - pregnancy (singleton) progressing well. 3) 3rd cycle (NFC) - Dec 05 - split 25 eggs (12/13 split) - couple #1: 8 fertilized - 3 embryos implanted - 5 embryos to storage - no pregnancy (the woman had a uterine problem and had been advised against trying IVF until it was corrected with surgery - bottom line - she did not have a good uterus to sustain embryo); couple #2: 4 fertilized - 2 embryos implanted - 2 embryos to storage - pregnancy (singleton) progressing well. 4) 4th cycle (NFC) - Mar 06 - split (egg count not back from lab yet) - couple #1: 3 fertilized (good looking embryos) - all implanted - none to storage, couple #2 - 5 fertilized - 2 embryos implanted - 3 embryos to storage . . . should know about pregnancy results for these two couples in about 2 weeks. Bottom line: she has contributed to 5 couples - 2 are awaiting pregnancy results, 2 got pregnant and 1 did not (uterine problem). Kelli says that is a pretty impressive record and we should stick with her. So we are... The outstanding decision right now (awaiting Dr. Whitworth's call on this ) is whether we can split her. I told Kelli that it is, obviously, fiscally advantageous to do so, but our PRIMARY CONCERN is increasing our chances for pregnancy (with good embryos to implant, and hopefully, some embryos for storage). I figure in the greater scheme of things, 18 years from now when we are standing at our son or daughter's high school graduation the extra $7000 will seem like a drop in the bucket. With that being said, we are still a go... Planning to have Amber here for transfer the first week of June and expecting a baby (or two) this time next year... it does seem that I have said that once or twice already but for whatever reason God wants us to wait a little longer and that is what we will do... :-) Thanks as always for reading... Please keep our military families in your prayers, Sharelle and Randy, and Tina (and baby) and Jeremy as well... we should be hearing from them VERY soon about our new little nephew... I hope Ambers dream of us having twin girls comes true or the Evans' clan as well as the Ruppel clan will consist of only one Granddaughter (Haley & Caroline) ! :-) Love you all... Carolyn (and John, at Ft Rucker, AL)
Posted on 19 Mar 2006 at 12:30 PM
20 Mar 2006
New York State of Mind
Hi Guys. It has been too long since our last entry, we apologize. We have just returned from a getaway in Valle Crucis, NC (O Daddy and Gran graciously watched the kids). Carolyn, I have encountered so many Northerners like the one you spoke about in your previous entry that I want you to know I feel your pain. But here is a unique story that I thought you might enjoy and may give you hope yet for some of our Northern neighbors. I work with a guy named Mike from Long Island. He used to work in Manhattan. He has lived in this area now for 9 years. He laughs every time he hears someone ask him if he has eaten at the latest establisment that has "New York" in the title. He tells them how much he and his family LOVE living in the South. The traffic is minimal, the people are not constantly rude (actually he loves how nice everyone down here is), the property is not way over priced and the food is awesome (his personal favorite is real barbeque). He never wishes to return to New York to live, even though it is his home, and dreams of owning some land on the southern coast of NC one day. There is hope for those Yankees yet! We are sorry for your set back on the pregnancy front, but it is going to happen for you guys. You both are destined to be parents. It took us over a year and a half to get pregnant the first time and we didn't have to follow any schedules so the only advice I can give you is sit tight, it will happen. We will talk to you guys soon. Jason
Posted on 20 Mar 2006 at 6:55 PM
14 Apr 2006
Good Friday
It is a good Friday other than John is gone again... :-( He did an over night flight to VA but made it there and is safe... he is doing over water training this week so keep him in your thoughts.. more accidents happen during training than war... I thought I would post a little note here for you all to read... we don't have surrogate news really, our egg donor will be ready next week we hope (the clinic is supposed to let us know) and I believe from there it will be 1-1.5 months for transfer to happen... I could be wrong, they may be able to manipulate time at their will in regards to the ED... Amber has been on birth control for the past month so she is ready.. I did find out from Kelli that both the mothers became pregnant with the last transfer and both had embryos to go to storage (for sibling projects in the future) So far she (the ed) has a great track record, lets hope she keeps it up for us!! Also, Please welcome Jackson Evans to the world.. he was born April 5th 2006 and both mommy and baby are home and doing well! I CANT wait to see him... I hear Samuel is being a great big brother... :-) And please say a prayer for Sharelle and Randy too... I would LOVE to have her pregnant the same time as Amber so I can know (almost daily) what she is going through.. and it would be wonderful to have our babies be so close in age.. :-) It seems that John will be gone from now until the middle of May so say a prayer for me too.. I get so bored with him gone... :-P I am going shopping today so that always makes things better!! On a side note, the pain in my a$$ at work resigned Tuesday !!! one of those quit or be demoted or fired kind of options!! I know it isn't very nice of me but I really want to have a party.... some of you know what an issue this has been for me (and the rest of the staff) to the point that I really thought I would leave before him.. It almost make me not want to quit at the end of the year, almost. :-) Does anyone know how to get rid of a bird nest in a grill without killing the birds? I just realized we dont grill out enough and have a family of black birds (with babies from the sound of things IN our grill... :-) Ok... off to the shower.... I Love you all and thanks for reading! Carolyn
Posted on 14 Apr 2006 at 8:13 AM
20 Apr 2006
Lets make a baby!!
We have news... finally!!!! The clinic called and the week of Memorial Day will be the egg retrieval (she didn't give an exact date, but probably Wednesday the 31st) and the embryo transfer will be either June 3rd or 5th!! This depends on the quality of the embryos.... Amber and family will be here the 2nd - 7th to cover all the basis.. :-) This also means that we should have news if we are pregnant either the 13th or 15th of June (smack on top of John's COC!) and if we are pregnant, we will be due Feb 20th (or so) 2007....What a great week that will be (we hope) .. of course there is always the chance of us not getting pregnant but I am staying positive ! I know this is a short little note but I wanted you all to know the wonderful news.... Love to all Carolyn
Posted on 20 Apr 2006 at 12:22 PM
29 Apr 2006
Ft Leavenworth, KS
Well... the week is over for me but John has two weeks to go... The classes were very informative but in all honesty the week just assured me I know what I need to know to be a good commander’s wife... I feel very blessed to be a part of the 160th. They have a great FRG (Family Readiness Group) network and really know how to take care of the families back home... I guess it is because they are continuously deployed and they have had too much practice tending to the fallen soldiers families... A blessing in disguise? Maybe... We had a great time with Amber and the girls... Meghan has changed so much in the past few months and Bailey is just a hoot... such a little personality... We didn’t have much time together but we did get to go to the Circus and I got to ride the elephant with the girls... (John made me!) It was fun and I think the girls had a good time... I know John did! I can’t believe in just over a month they will all be here (Nashville) for the transfer and officially the ball will be pushed off the mountain top! How exciting... I did breakdown and tell my small group at PCC (pre command course) about our plans.. My cancer came up and the fact that we were planning to start a family and... Well... they put two and two together and just asked... They are all expecting an email near John's COC (Change of Command) with news! I have been itching to tell people and felt this was ok being that none of these ladies are Ft Campbell wives and I hope they won’t know anyone we know... I just don’t want to tell everyone and then not be successful with this... You know... it has certainly been a challenge not telling anyone outside the family and close friends but soon enough I hope to be yelling from the rooftops! I need to go and pack up... I am heading out tomorrow afternoon and I haven’t started getting all my stuff in order... And hey, how about the acronyms!! You would NOT believe the acronyms the military uses…I think there is one for everything… I actually got a THREE PAGE SHEET on them in the orientation class on Monday… I have to practice!!! Pretty soon I will have these journal entries down to two sentences! I might have to start making up my own acronyms… Love you all and let the countdown begin!! Carolyn (and John)
Posted on 29 Apr 2006 at 7:49 PM
Stephanie Zimmerman (Christy's cousin) Thinking of YOU! Posted on 30 Apr 2006 6:15 PM
Carolyn, I was just catching up on the "goings on" with you, John, and baby-to-be! I will look forward to GREAT news in the days ahead. Please know how much I have enjoyed you in the brief time that we've spent together... Love always, Stephanie
7 May 2006
Out from hiding :) (Amber)
Hello All, I figured I should come out of the wood work and say hello! Spring is here and boy have we all been busy... School is keeping me on my toes and I have been pulling extra hours so I can take some time off in the near future. Mitch will be home in about 11 days and my head is spinning with excitement! I've missed him SO much! It will be an AMAZING feeling to have my family together again where they belong! Mitch has been doing well and thanks all of you for the words of support, encouragement, and prayers while he has been deployed. As you all know we are OFFICALLY gearing up for transfer.... ONLY 29 days to go! Yippee!!!! Almost seems surreal. We've waited so long to make it to that day. I began taking my Lupron injections on April 26 and go in for my suppression check on Tuesday May 9. The Lupron has been fairly kind to me. I initially had to deal with a bout of extreme nausea but that has subsided and now I'm left with only the Lupron headache... I have a new found respect for those who have or are currently going through menopause! :) The next step to our transfer protocol will be the addition of Estrace.... I have recently become very thankful for the extra pouch on my tummy from having the girls.... It is a Very nice place to give myself injections and hurts much less than giving it in my thigh.... Now, the progesterone won't be as kind.... I took a closer look at the needle I have to use the other day... BAD IDEA LOL!!!! I am SO thankful Mitch will be home and can give me those because I'm sure I would have an anxiety attack if I had to do it myself.... That thing is HUGE! ~LOL~ If anyone knows where I can find EMLA cream let me know... I'm starting to think I may want some to help numb up the injection site! Thank you All for keeping me and my family in your thoughts and prayers! It has meant the world to me. I can't wait to meet and thank each and everyone of you personally. Hopefully VERY soon we will have WONDERFUL news to report!..... I will update again as things move closer along to transfer. I hope you all are doing well. Hugs and Love to ALL of you!Amber
Posted on 7 May 2006 at 8:26 PM
Joellyn PIO shots Posted on 14 May 2006 2:7 PM
Hi, I found your site online while I was recently going through my IVF journey. Happily, I'm expecting twins in Oct. 2006. My husband and I live in Paducah, KY and travelled to Nashville to the Nashville Fertility Center for all the procedures. It has been nice "getting to know you" online and experience your journey. I just wanted to give you some advice about the progesterone shots that really helped. First, draw up the meds into the syringe and change to a smaller gauge needle. The IVF nurses will say to use a certain size but you can actually use one a little smaller. It will take longer to push the meds out of the syringe, but the pain will be alot less. Anyway, put the syringe with the meds under a heating pad and lay your bottom on it for about 5-10 minutes...when it is good and hot. Have your husband give the injection and have him rub it in your muscle afterwards. Then, lay on the heating pad for another 5 mintues or so. I have heard that some women use ice, but I liked the heat myself. HOPE THIS HELPS and BEST OF LUCK.
18 May 2006
Perspective
Good morning everyone... First we want to thank all of you for reading, even those we don’t know! We really appreciate your prayers and support and those helpful tips that might make our journey easier! For those of you that are family and friends you are well aware that you have now received two or even three invitations to John’s change of command... The first invite had John as Lt Colon... the second, for some of you had the date as a Friday and the third SHOULD be the correct one... please feel free to keep all three and save them in the event they are collectors items in the future... hahaha.... John was pretty livid about all of this and planned to rip someone's butt for this two time oversight but his/our perspective was quickly changed... Last week we suffered three personal losses that have changed our perspective on the little things... I lost a friend and co-worked last Friday and this past Sunday we (as well, the unit) lost two warriors in the war. I went to a funeral Tuesday of this week and today am heading to the memorial for our fallen heroes... With John being home sometimes I forget we are at war... I know you may wonder how can this be? but it does happen... I know we can’t live with every moment filled with fear but I feel guilty because when I heard about the "shoot-down" it didn’t register that it could be one of ours... I know without a doubt if John had been deployed I would have freaked out but I didn’t, only because he was home, and I should have been more thoughtful... Please keep these families in your thoughts and prayers... I know they need all the support possible right now, even if it is just a quick note to God in your head... as well keep those deployed in your prayers... It seems to me (and I know most of you will agree) that John and I have a tendency to be reactive to situations... and yes, we both realize this (shocking to some of you!) and plan to work on changing this part of who we are. We really can’t help that we are very A personalities. But suffering a loss such as the above mentioned certainly helps with backing off the little annoying things, such as our issues with our clinic and the "professionals" involved in the surrogacy journey, and focusing on the important items at hand... You know "don’t sweat the small stuff" kind of attitude.. So this is what we plan to practice... Feel free to remind either of us when we go off on a rant about something that really isn’t important to anyone... (I am guilty as heck of this one) ...
On a good news note.... MITCH COMES HOME TODAY!!!!! Yeah.... We are so happy for you Amber (and girls) to have him home... As always, keep Sharelle and Randy in your prayers.. (They may give up, but I won’t!) And all of our troops in harms way... I love you all and we hope to see most of you in June!
Carolyn (and John)
Posted on 18 May 2006 at 8:17 AM
Anonymous post Posted on 18 May 2006 10:38 AM
That was a really good post, Carolyn. Been thinking like that for a long time. Dad R
26 May 2006
Let the panic set in!
Well... the count down has started and so has the panic on both mine and Ambers part.. haha.. we are now getting "voice mails" from the clinic in regards to the egg donor and how she is progressing... she seems to be progressing well but some of our friends on the surrogate message board seem to think she is going to hyper stimulate.. (Which of course freaked both of us out) especially with the holiday weekend upon us and the poor communication we have had already with the clinic.. I did speak to a nurse today and she tells me that we are on track, that the ED will be checked again tomorrow and that they will let us know the results (via voice mail box)... so for now the plan is Amber and family will be here Friday June 2nd... if all goes well with the ED, transfer will be either the 3rd or the 5th... but if she has to retrieve early we MIGHT be transferring on the 2nd... after Amber gets here... The clinic is well aware of Amber’s location ... If we do a 5 day transfer and the ED has to go early we will be ok... Amber has had several appointments there to check to make sure her uterus is developing a nice cushy pillow for the embryos to snuggle in and all of her reports have been glowing... (But of course, miss fertile myrtle) so... everyone hang on and hold your breath because this time next week we will be MAKING A BABY! Let me tell you, getting all this stuff planned is a lot of work... With John's COC... I know you are wondering why you got three invitations.. well... we wanted to make sure you were going to come.. haha.. kidding... there were TYPOs on the first two for most of you (some got corrected ones on the second try but others didn’t) so just as long as you know, June 14 is a Wednesday and that John isn’t a LT Colon.. (at least not very often!!)... haha.. you KNOW the guys are just going to give him Hell about that.. Those plans are going well too.. I ordered the cake today and that is really all we have to do.. The out going commander takes care of everything but the food... and yes, as bad as I wanted to do the food, I hired a caterer to do it.. this year is going to be a lot of giving up control for me.... I need it anyway... So, John is playing in the nightstalker golf tourney today .. I am home just hanging out getting ready to paint the steps... tomorrow is the NS picnic and Jazz on the lawn.. Sunday/Monday we'll go to Nashville to see mom and dad.. Last night was the "Prom" AKA the formal but I didn't go .. John was at Ft Bragg and I wasnt going solo unless I could sit with a certain someone whose table was full... I was alseep by 2200 and I heard dinner wasnt served until 2100 (due to a tardy special guest) so I would have DIED by then without food... good thing I wasnt there.. :-) Next year I will if he is gone but not this year.. (Thanks for the date invite though Christy) Have a safe holiday weekend and remember those that we have lost over the years fighting for our freedom this weekend... It seems many forget what Memorial Day is all about.. unfortunatly, we get reminded all to often... We love you all... thanks for reading and keeping us in your prayers.... Pray as well to keep all of our soliders safe (as well for their families back home) .. and as always for Sharelle and Randy...
Posted on 26 May 2006 at 4:48 PM
28 May 2006
One week until take off!!
Happy Memorial Day weekend to you all! I hope this finds you all well and enjoying the every freedom that has been bought with blood, sweat, and tears. It really makes you greatful when you sit and actually think of the tremendous sacrifices made over the centuries to allow us all the life we have today. So first, let me thank 2 WONDERFUL military men, my husband Mitch, and You, John. While the two of you are a very small representative of our nations military, I think your characters speak volumes for the type of men and women who willingly sacrifice so that our freedoms may be preserved. Thank you to all of our members of the Armed forces past and present and to the many families and friends who have stood by and supported them!!! On to surrogacy.... Can you believe that after all this time we are FINALLY going to transfer??? In less than 3 days (date of egg retrieval) the hopeful teeny beginnings of the newest Evans' will make it's beginning. In ONE week that tiny miracle will find it's way to hopefully settling in my tummy for the next 9 months!!! Finally and MOST EXCITING of all, if all goes well, February of next year... that little one or plural, ones.... will find their way to their mommy and daddy's arms! I am So excited to have been welcomed into your families and invited to be a part of such an amazing miracle! I am crossing EVERYTHING that will cross that this works out as planned and that I am soon able to call you Carolyn, and tell you the news my heart longs to scream... You're going to be a MOMMY!!! Carolyn, I want to thank you so much for your friendship... I never expected when I first started my journey what I have found in you... I hoped, I prayed, but was cautious in assuming it would happen. You are an AMAZING woman and I am so excited for the priviledge to walk hand in hand with you down your path to motherhood! Thank you for opening your heart and reaching past this miracle of surrogacy to find ME and for allowing me to be your friend! I know, I'm sappy! I think it's all of these darn hormones! The medications have actually been fairly kind to me. I was initally sick when I began the Lupron but that subsided... Then began the Lupron headaches. Although annoying, they were not as bad as I've heard some report of. The Estrace was kind... until this week... ARGH! The bloating has come, I'm hungry ALL the time and I have periods of dizzyness.... Hmm... Much like being pregnant! How am I ever going to distinguish the symptoms? On Wednesday... I will take my last Lupron shot, which you think I would be happy about.... However, I am trading one itsy bitsy teeny weeny 1/2 inch insulin needle for on Super Gimongous Humdinger of a Beast! Okay, so maybe a tad bit of an exaggeration! However it is pretty dad burn big! 1 1/2 inch 22 gauge.... Nothing like staring down the barrel of a 22,.... Okay, so yet again, a slight exaggeration but you get my point! LOL! :-) I will take my first Progesterone (A.K.A. the beast) injection Wednesday and every day there on until either they say I am not pregnant or I am approximately 10 weeks pregnant... I'm preparing my bum for the latter of those 2 options! It will be well worth the pain in the end! Mitch, myself, and the girls will be arriving in Nashville Friday afternoon 2 June. It is my goal to WEAR MYSELF OUT over the course of the next few days of being there... That is because post transfer I will be restricted to a bed for 2 days... Da Da DUM.... This will be SO hard for me!!! However, I am excited that Carolyn and I will get to spend some time alone together during this! John and Mitch have been volunteered to entertain our 2 girls while I am comfortably resting on my down filled comforter! :) Oh, did I mention we are potty training Meghan? Have fun guys!!! All in all everything is progressing well... The clinic should call tomorrow, Monday 29 May and update us on the egg donor... It is my guess that she will trigger tomorrow night and we should be right on target for our transfer falling on either 3 or 5 June! I'm sure Carolyn and John will update this week as well but that is my little update.... I'll try to post later this week on how my first encounter with the Beast went! Wishing you all a safe and happy Memorial Day weekend! Hugs to you all!Amber
Posted on 28 May 2006 at 6:42 PM
29 May 2006
Top 10 Reasons Cats are Better than Dogs
10. Cats don't drink water and get more on the floor than in their mouths 9. Cats don't turn the yard into a turd combat zone while trying to push mow the yard. 8. Cats don't insist on being underneath you at all times. 7. Cats don't come to attention if you blink. 6. Cats don't fart while walking up the stairs (with me behind them) 5. Cats don't eat drywall. 4. Cats don't eat Christmas trees. 3. Cats don't eat Golf Bags 2. Cats don't eat "anything" that happens to land on the floor, this to include any paper product and other unknowns (proof is seen in # 9) and the number one reason Cats are better than dogs Cats don't have panic attacks for whatever reason and decide to eat their way onto the back deck (through a wood lattice "gate" ) To then have a snack of two herb plants and an entire bag of potting soil (with miracle grow, God help me if he gets bigger now). A cat would never then decide to make its way through the screen door (eating its way, of course) to get inside the screened in portion of the deck and then attempt to eat its way inside the house via the window, through the screen... :-) If ANY of you argue with me... you can have Stonewall... Love to all
Posted on 29 May 2006 at 6:15 PM
Anonymous 10 Reasons, etc Posted on 29 May 2006 7:46 PM
Must have been a TOUGH holiday weekend. Dad
30 May 2006
Top 10 Reasons Dogs Are Better Than Cats
In deference to my wife, whose patience with Stonewall has been truly amazing, I will not make snide comments about her latest posting. She did, after all, have to adopt two bachelors two and a half years ago - both of us set in our ways, and neither or us very disciplined. However, she often forgets that I had to exercise the same amount of patience with two other additions to our four-legged family. It is for this reason, and through this experience that I can say with confidence that DOGS ARE BETTER THAN CATS . . . and here are the top 10 reasons why . . . . 10. Dogs don't "meow" ("meowing" being the singularly wimpiest sound of the entire animal kingdom followed closely by the "hiss" for which cats are also notorious). 9. Dogs don't crap and pee in a box and then meow at you annoyingly because you haven't shoveled out their excrement and re-coated their tiny bathroom with litter only to have to do the same thing again in a week's time. 8. Dogs announce themselves when they are around and are therefore easy to avoid, unlike cats who ARE under your feet at all times, they are just stealthy and sneaky about doing it (a common trait of all cats), and are likely to make the pitiful meowing sound if you step on them. 7. Dogs come to attention to acknowledge your higher status on the evolutionary chain, as oppose to cats who NEVER come to attention or even parade rest, and are generally content to not move a muscle to acknowledge you and would likely just lay back down and go to sleep if you were to spontaneously combust on the couch. 6. Dogs don't spray you with nasty a$$-juice if you happen to touch them the wrong way as you are picking them up to put them in their pillow-lined crate for the night. 5. Dogs don't eat your cherished family photographs. 4. Dogs don't eat your graduation certificates, important documents, bills or other paper goods that you have left neatly organized on your desk. 3. Dogs don't make revolting vomitous sounds as they choke up a hairball - they don't even create hairballs because they don't incessantly lick themselves. 2. Dogs don't look at you like you owe them money. And the #1 reason dogs are better than cats . . . Dogs don't wallow through a pee and crap filled litter box and then walk across your eating surfaces, sleeping surfaces and other living areas with their tiny little crap and pee encrusted feet! And just for the record - I AM arguing with my patient, loving wife so I guess I'll just keep Stonewall ;-)
Posted on 30 May 2006 at 6:55 AM
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Dogs vs Cats
anonymous Posted on 30 May 2006 at 11:51 AM
The one thing cats should get credit for is "they can teach you to fly". Just walk around the room, minding your own business, and, Accidently step on the furry cat. The absolutley excruciating screeching howl from THAT CAT has me at least 5 feet in the air, frantically searching for a handle of some kind to hold before you falling back to earth, on THAT CAT, to start the whole sequence over again. And they say that Orville Wright was the first man to fly. Dad R
30 May 2006
Round three...
I planned to make some nice comments about Stonewall's nicer qualities (he does have a few) ... BUT .... now I am not.. :) Honey... I know you think the adjustment was the same for both of us and I do admit you have had to adjust to dear Ashley and sweet Colby... Adjust to having Ashley flop down next to you or on your lap and kneed on you purring, or her talking back to you with her half meow and squinty eyes... I know, it is such a pain having Colby flop down in front of you wanting you to pet him... or to have him want to be in your lap while on the computer (or in the bathroom) your self proclaimed bathroom buddy... :-) I know how hard it is having little litter box feet running around but if you think of it, Stonewalls bathroom makes all of our feet (including all four of his) covered in "waste"... Yum... The next time we have to replace a Christmas tree, a golf bag, at least 5 walls of drywall (including some wiring) , a screen door and window screen. Or have to install an electric fence ($$) or pay to have boarded because they cant be left alone for more than, what three hours? Or be unable to plant any flowers in the front because he will either eat them or just trample them.. or buy any really nice (expensive) trees in the front yard that will only die due to urine, because of a cat, let me know.. :) Meow, Ashley and Colby... Cats rule, Dogs drool!!
Posted on 30 May 2006 at 9:42 AM
31 May 2006
Back to Topic
Ok.. no more cat vs. dog talk.. on to making a baby... Today (Wednesday) we are on hold to hear how the egg donor is doing and how many eggies she produced, we should know this afternoon and of course I will post the results.. Tomorrow we will find out how many embryos we have, two will be implanted and the rest will go into storage. (for a sibling project) We are on target to transfer on Monday the 5th of June but there is a chance we could transfer Saturday the 3rd. We will know Friday if they are going to move us up to Saturday (which we don't want) ... If we go to Monday for transfer we should be able to test (HPT) within 5-7 days post transfer (correct me if I am wrong with this Amber, she is the HPT master) so we should know unofficially if we are pregnant by the 10th - 12th... and we will know officially by the 16th (via BETA test, blood work) when Amber is scheduled to visit the clinic again... I cant believe the time has come already... wow... Amber and family will be here in two days! and transferring in 5! We really thought this day would never get here... Well it is 5:50am and I need start my work day... I will post again as news comes in! Love to all keep those prayers coming!! Carolyn
Posted on 31 May 2006 at 5:51 AM
Anonymous Back to the Topic Posted on 31 May 2006 11:35 AM
Here's to your GOOD LUCK! See you Saturday. Dad
31 May 2006
Does it get any better?
Ok... So, today has been quite the day for me personally... Let me fill you in... My Boss calls me and tells me she needs to see me before I go home... I think, "ok, what have I done?" and head over to her office.. I get there and she shuts the door... I think "GREAT, what I have I done?" Was I on line too long? what? I really was a bit worried... Then she tells me she has been working on a project for the past 5 months regarding me and my job and that she is promoting me to Purchasing Manager/Support Coordinator. My previous position was Support Systems Specialist/Special Events Coordinator (quite the mouthful huh?) So.... She tells me my job won't change other than I will start purchasing now on Monday and Thursdays... For those that don't know the history here, I am the go to person for my boss.. Apparently I manage time very well and have for the past 10 or so years continued taking on more and more work and adjusting my job to fit my schedule.. Currently I work Monday - Thursday, 36 hours a week.. so I asked about keeping my schedule and she said she didn't see it as a problem but there might be times that I will need to work either 10 hour days or work on a Friday here and there, which I do already... In addition, I will officially be a "manager" which I haven't been in the past... and the bonus of a 12% raise! WOW.. I was shocked.. and somewhat concerned with the fact that I pretty much do every job in the department and she knows of both John's command position AND the surrogacy... as well as my tremendous daily two hour commute ... but heck I will take it while I can get it! BUT THAT ISN'T ALL to my good news day... I got a call from dear Amber on the way home from work and she tells me she just got off the phone with Kelli, the IVF nurse and our egg donor produced fifty (50!!!) eggs... with us getting 25 along with the other couple! HOLY MACARONI!!!! 25 is actually more than many single donors produce.. Today I kept thinking something was wrong because we hadn't heard anything from the clinic.. I was going over scenario of what if she hyper stimulated and lost all the eggs or if she didn't produce many and we had to split just a few but WOW.... 50 is the highest she has ever produced and as I type John's little spermies are going to work making little embryos!!! We may end up with a whole clan of Evans'!!! In addition, (as if it could get ANY better) my dear husband cooked dinner for me tonight.... !! I need to take a nap from all the excitement!! Check back tomorrow because by 10am we will know exactly how many embryos we have !!!! WOOOOOO HOOOOOOO!! Life is good and God is blessing us! Pray for our egg donor, she did a great job but might get sick from all her hard work.. they are monitoring her closely to make sure she doesn't but keep her in your thoughts! Carolyn
Posted on 31 May 2006 at 4:33 PM
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Untitled
notdoneyet Posted on 1 Jun 2006 at 9:33 AM
Congratulations on all fronts. I'm so excited for you to finally get this thing going....
1 Jun 2006
A BIG Number!
Hello Everyone, I am trying to beat Carolyn to the punch on our latest news! We were told by the clinic today that of the 25 eggs retrieved from our ED (after the split) we had ELEVEN successfully fertilized and turned into embryos! That is VERY good news for us. It brings us one step closer to making our bigger family a reality. We will call the clinic again tomorrow to find out if we are still on track for a 5-day transfer (so far so good). Then we simply wait for Amber (and family) to arrive so we can do the transfer! It is incredibly exciting to be at this stage of our journey. We both know it would not be possible without all of your prayers and support. Thanks for all that each of you do. Please stay glued to the journal and we'll send you our minute by minute updates as we get them! John (and Carolyn)
Posted on 1 Jun 2006 at 12:13 PM
2 Jun 2006
5 Day Transfer it will be
Good morning everyone! I just checked the voice mail and all our embryos are progressing as scheduled and we are on track for a 5 day transfer! So, Mom this means we'll be there Saturday for dinner! Amber and family are about to head out to the airport (just talked to her, we actually called the clinic voice mail at the exact same time) and will be here this afternoon!! John and I are so excited about this weekend and really enjoy spending time with Amber, Mitch and the girls... From what I can tell, Miss Meghan is living up to the "terrible two's" stage of life so the boys will have fun with her while Amber and I are kicking back watching chick flicks for two days!! haha... Good practice for dear John.. Keep our soldiers (and families) in your prayers as always.. Love you all! Carolyn
Posted on 2 Jun 2006 at 9:40 AM
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Congrats!!
suzannewilliamson Posted on 2 Jun 2006 at 3:10 PM
Just wanted to say congrats on getting this far and good luck at ya'lls transfer (can you tell I'm from TX)!!! Hope to see that you get a BFP on this first time around!!! (got the link from SMO)
Untitled
notdoneyet Posted on 3 Jun 2006 at 7:06 PM
More great news! Can't wait to hear some more.....
4 Jun 2006
A Day at the Zoo
Hello Journal Faithful, Amber and Mitch arrived with no problems on Friday night. They were able to get to their hotel and check-in then grab a bite to eat in beautiful downtown Nashville. We elected to stay out of their hair on Friday night and let them get settled in at Union Station (a beautiful turn of the century train station that has been refurbished as a hotel in downtown Nashville - the architecture is beautiful as is the view of the city). Carolyn did provide a welcome basket of sorts. She had the hotel place a cooler full of drinks and a basket full of goodies in their room before they arrived so they would have something for the kids and themselves to snack on. Yesterday (Saturday) we met them at the hotel and went to the kid's favorite place in Nashville - the Zoo at Grassmere. It was a beautiful day but the crowds were outrageous. In fact our fertility clinic was sponsoring their annual birthday party (we had no idea) for all the couples who have had successful IVF procedures. There were twins and triplets abounding at the Nashville Zoo! The girls had a great time, and although they favor the elephants, giraffes and meerkats (or as Bailey calls them - Miracle Cats), the biggest hit is always the monsterous jungle gym. It comes complete with a padded play area for the little tikes (Meghan loves this) and a series of challenging obstacles, tunnels, ladders and slides for the older kids. Although most of the 3-4 year olds steer clear of this area, Bailey is always the first one to charge ahead and climb to the top to ride the "big slide". It was a great day and by the time we left the kids were pooped (as were the adults)! We ended the evening at Carolyn's folk's house with a great home cooked meal and a place where the kids could play with our niece and nephew's toys. Today we head to the Cumberland Science Center and plan to join Randy and Sharelle for a cookout at their house. It is wonderful having Amber and Mitch here and we are so excited about the transfer in just 1 day! Carolyn and I were remarking just last night that having Mitch and Amber and the girls here is much less like a "meeting of neccesity" than it is a get together with close friends. We feel so truly blessed to have found such a wonderful family to share this experience with. 1 day to tranfer - we'll keep everyone posted!!! John (and Carolyn)
Posted on 4 Jun 2006 at 8:22 AM
9 Jun 2006
Waiting is the Hardest Part!
Good Morning, I am taking most of the day off to do some mental and personal preparation for my change of command next week (and some house cleaning), but Carolyn is back at work. I find myself quite anxious this morning for some reason. Perhaps it is the knowledge that we are closing in on the "optimum window" for a positive pregnancy test result. We do so appreciate the many prayers and well wishes from all of you. We are maintaining a positive but realistic attitude. Our Amber has been testing (home pregnancy tests) like a mad woman ever since she got home two days ago. I get very tickled at her tenacity, but am so happy that we have her. Her determination is incredible, and were it possible I am sure she would WILL HERSELF pregnant. We look forward to letting everyone know (one way or the other) once we have confirmed results. I hope each of you has a blessed day. We look forward to seeing many of you at the change of command on Wednesday. For those that we don't see, please know that you are in our prayers daily, and we so appreciate your undying support in our journey. John (and Carolyn) PS - Say a special prayer today for the men and women that were so instrumental in ensuring the coward/terrorist, Zarqawi got what he deserved. Judgment belongs to God alone, but I feel certain he will spend eternity burning for his crimes. And a special HOOAH to Mitch and his Air Force brethren - those F16s were right on target. AIM HIGH!
Posted on 9 Jun 2006 at 10:30 AM
9 Jun 2006
Missing entry
It seems my entry from the 7th is gone... :-( I dont know where it went or how to get it back... If anyone is saving these or printing them... Keep it so I can re-enter it and hope it stays around.. Carolyn
Posted on 9 Jun 2006 at 11:00 AM
Anonymous Missing entry Posted on 9 Jun 2006 11:7 AM
I've got it printed out. Dad R
Thanks !
I KNEW Dad would have a copy.. He reads the journal and prints it for Mom to read!... So, after Sunday I can get the entry from the 7th back in its proper place!! Thanks Dad!!
Posted on 9 Jun 2006 at 5:51 PM
No News Is . . . To Be Expected
Hello Faithful Readers, Family and Friends, We are now officially 5 days past transfer, or as Carolyn's surromom bloggers would put it - 5dp5dt (5 days past a 5 day transfer). Amber started doing Home Pregnancy Tests (HPTs) as soon as she got home. In fact, she did one before she even left Nashville! The HCG (Human Chorionic Gonadotropin) that women test for in home pregnancy tests can manifest itself very soon after implantation. However, it is very rare to see a positive HPT within the first five days. If you DO get a positive that early it is a possible signal of multiples... Doing research on the web we have discovered that the 6th and 7th days after transfer are when most women will test positive on a HPT. So that means Sunday or Monday would be the days that Amber would most likely have a positive trigger. It is incredibly exciting to be at this stage and we are sure that each of you is equally excited for us. We look forward to several very big events in the next four days - tomorrow we will celebrate Nathan's birthday in Nashville (at Chuckie Cheese no less), Monday my parents arrive (with little brother Jeremy and nephew Samuel) for my change of command. Monday is also Mom's birthday (no, Mom, I haven't forgotten), Tuesday we will enjoy a laid back evening with my folks, and then Wednesday I take command! In the midst of all of this we hope to have BIG NEWS for everyone (keep your fingers crossed)! I've got some swordfish steaks thawing and promised Carolyn I would cook tonight (since she is finishing up painting the hallway steps - great job, Babe!) so I have to run. She is not feeling well today and hopes that it is sympathetic morning sickness :-) Look forward to seeing most of you in the next four days, and the rest of you whenever God so blesses us. Please continue to pray for us (and Amber) for a positive result, or as Carolyn's surromom bloggers would say, BFP (big fat positive). John (and Carolyn)
Posted on 10 Jun 2006 at 6:04 PM
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Untitled
notdoneyet Posted on 10 Jun 2006 at 6:39 PM
Congratulations! I can't wait to hear what that beta is!
replaced entry
I retyped the June 7th entry.. if any of you want to read it.. :) Still waiting for big news... :) keep your fingers crossed!!
Posted on 12 Jun 2006 at 5:17 PM
Family, Friends, Ceremonies, and . . . Beta?
Hello to All, What a whirlwind week it has been for Carolyn and I. After Mitch, Amber and the kids left for Wichita last Wednesday we moved into the waiting mode (still waiting :-P), but we also shifted focus to several important family events and my upcoming change of command. We spent Saturday cleaning the house, then headed to Nashville to see Carolyn's family on Sunday. Nathan had a BIG birthday party at Chuckie Cheese (big no. 4) and we enjoyed seeing Sharon for the first time in ages (she has been swamped with work and preparing to enter an MBA program at Georgia State University this summer). My mom and dad arrived yesterday (with Jeremy and his son, Samuel) and we had a great time last night just watching that little 2-year old crazy man run all over the house. We celebrated a late Mother's Day with mom (and gave her a special gift), got a jump on Father's Day with dad (since they will be gone before it gets here), and also got to spend Mom's birthday (12 June) with her (first time I have seen her on her birthday in probably 20 years). Stonewall was excited to see all of our guests, the cats . . . not so much. Jeremy and Sam will head to the Nashville Zoo with my mom today to meet Kurt, Nathan and Caroline (finally, we link up a couple of the cousins!) and Carolyn's mom. I am sure they will have a great time. Then tomorrow we have the big ceremony and a family/friends get together at the house. We are very excited about the new phase of our life we are entering. We face battalion command with some shared trepidation, but lots of high hopes for a wonderful experience. So what about the transfer, right? Well, Amber continues to test diligently with HPTs (she's gotten lots of negatives, but we appreciate her tenacity). The big test will be on Friday when she has her Beta test (refer to previous posts to understand some of the dynamics of the HCG testing and levels). After we get the results from Friday's test we should have some news (one way or the other) for everyone. Thanks for your continued prayers, thoughts, concerns and well wishes. We are excited to be where we are on our journey, and we have already learned and grown so much. Thanks again for what each of you do. John (and Carolyn)
Posted on 13 Jun 2006 at 4:58 AM
And the News You've All Been Waiting For . . .
Faithful Readers, We have had multiple positive HPTs (home pregnancy tests)! Amber actually started getting them about day 3 (which is extremely early), but we wanted to hold off on telling our family until we had some pretty clear indications. We also wanted to be able to tell our families in person (easily done for Carolyn's side, but a challenge for me). The change of command presented a great opportunity for me to share this wonderful news in person with my family so we eagerly awaited their arrival even after we were getting strong positive results on the HPTs. We told Carolyn's family on Sunday night (11 June) and told my family once they arrived in Tennessee on Monday. This was an extra special treat for Gran since it was her birthday. Since those positive HPTs Amber has had her Beta levels tested twice. The Beta test measures the amount of HCG in the blood. Her first test was done 7dp5dt resulting in a Beta of 74. This is going to be kinda hard to follow so bear with me. Average Beta for 7dp5dt is 48. A high Beta for that same timeframe would be about 119, so we were very pleased with a 74. A high level of HCG COULD mean multiples. Since then Amber has had a second Beta test. This one was completed today (11dp5dt). Average Beta for 11dp5dt is 292. A high Beta for that same timeframe would be 758. Ambers Beta today was . . . (drum roll please) 958! Any incredibly high number. This gives us cause to believe that she is quite pregnant and may in fact be pregnant with multiples! Needless to say, we are ecstatic! On top of all this great news, Amber, Mitch and the girls flew BACK to Tennessee on Wednesday and surprised me for my Change of Command. It was a very special surprise for me, and (surprisingly) one that I did not "sniff out". Carolyn (and the entire family) did an amazing job of keeping the entire affair a secret from me! After two days of command all of our dears friends and family have headed back home and we are recovering a bit from our busy week. We are elated at the results of Amber's Beta tests and feel blessed to now be the new Command Team for 2nd Battalion. Amber is scheduled for another Beta on Monday and a fourth Beta on Wednesday (Beta testing is done to monitor the growth progress of the fetus or fetuses). Although it is impossible to determine whether she is carrying twins from the Beta results, it will give us some indication by virtue of her HCG levels. Positive affirmation of singleton versus multiples will have to wait until the first ultrasound scheduled for the first week of July. Our continued thanks to each of you for your prayers, blessings and well wishes. We'll post more details as we get them. As we say in the Army, I guess the BLUF (bottom line up front) is - WE'RE PREGNANT! John (and Carolyn)
Posted on 16 Jun 2006 at 4:22 PM
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Gran's Reaction- Bring 'em on
jcevans Posted on 17 Jun 2006 at 9:53 AM
Hi Everyone, I think it's definitely time for the future grandmother to make an entry especially after the exciting news we just heard. At the risk of boring our readers ( I haven't a witty bone in my body) I will try to make this short but wanted to give a little background on my grandmotherhood up to this point. When my 3 sons were in their 20's and I was in my 40's I told them "Don't make me a grandmother until I'm 50". They didn't. When I turned 50, I said "anytime now". I waited, and waited, and waited....while all my friends were having their grandbabies and displaying Brag Books ad nauseum. I prayed a little harder. Finally, six months before I turned 60, John's brother Jason and his wife Ginny presented me with my first grandchild, a beautiful granddaughter, Haley Caroline. I was ecstatic! Within 4 years of Haley's birth I had added 3 more grandchildren, all boys and all geniuses. One of my friends told me "Be careful what you pray for". But I kept on praying for John and Carolyn to be able to experience parenthood . Then on my 64th birthday they presented me with the greatest gift imaginable - that they are pregnant. And maybe even twins!!! Be careful what you pray for???? I don't think so. All I can say is THANK YOU, GOD, for blessing our families and I will take all the grandchildren you want to give me. BRING THEM ON!!! We had a fantastic week in Clarksville and enjoyed our time with Carolyn's family. It was a special treat to meet Amber and Mitch and their two precious girls, Bailey and Meghan. God Bless you Amber for what you doing for John and Carolyn! We are certainly looking forward to all those updates and will be praying everyday for your good health. Gran Evans
Our Exciting New Chapter
Hello Journal Faithful, Just a quick post to thank everyone who traveled long distances, took time off from work and otherwise inconvenienced themselves to be able to attend my change of command. We have started an entirely new chapter in our lives. We are pregnant, Carolyn got a raise, and we are now the Command Team for over 500 military families - a labor of love to be sure, but a labor nonetheless. The pace is very fast for us, but we both like it that way. Thanks again to Amber, Mitch, Bailey, Meghan, Randy, Sharelle, Mom E., Dad E., Mom R., Dad R., Kurt, Nathan, Caroline, Jeremy, Sam, Tracey, Dewayne, Jessica, Luke, Elizabeth, Tori, Alan, Helga, Christy (I hope I haven't forgotten anyone) for their attendance at the ceremony. I hope you all enjoyed the simulator tour. Additionally, thanks to so many more who were unable to attend, but sent cards, gifts, emails and phone calls of congratulations. Our special day was even more special because we were able to share it with you. You are the people that have ensured our success in life with your love, compassion and friendship. We look forward to sharing more good news in the coming days. Keep pulling for high Beta numbers, and remember to keep Amber in your prayers as she nurtures new life for this world. John (and Carolyn)
Posted on 17 Jun 2006 at 9:19 AM
Comment I Turned into a Posting!
Gran's Reaction- Bring 'em on Hi Everyone, I think it's definitely time for the future grandmother to make an entry especially after the exciting news we just heard. At the risk of boring our readers ( I haven't a witty bone in my body) I will try to make this short but wanted to give a little background on my grandmotherhood up to this point. When my 3 sons were in their 20's and I was in my 40's I told them "Don't make me a grandmother until I'm 50". They didn't. When I turned 50, I said "anytime now". I waited, and waited, and waited....while all my friends were having their grandbabies and displaying Brag Books ad nauseum. I prayed a little harder. Finally, six months before I turned 60, John's brother Jason and his wife Ginny presented me with my first grandchild, a beautiful granddaughter, Haley Caroline. I was ecstatic! Within 4 years of Haley's birth I had added 3 more grandchildren, all boys and all geniuses. One of my friends told me "Be careful what you pray for". But I kept on praying for John and Carolyn to be able to experience parenthood . Then on my 64th birthday they presented me with the greatest gift imaginable - that they are pregnant. And maybe even twins!!! Be careful what you pray for???? I don't think so. All I can say is THANK YOU, GOD, for blessing our families and I will take all the grandchildren you want to give me. BRING THEM ON!!! We had a fantastic week in Clarksville and enjoyed our time with Carolyn's family. It was a special treat to meet Amber and Mitch and their two precious girls, Bailey and Meghan. God Bless you Amber for what you are doing for John and Carolyn! We are certainly looking forward to all those updates and will be praying everyday for your good health. Gran Evans
Posted on 17 Jun 2006 at 10:37 AM
Be careful what you ask for Gran..:)
Hola Journal faithful! We had our third (second official) beta today ... to recap we had our first at 9dp5dt =74, second 11dp5dt= 958 and today's number 14dp5dt= 3978... What does this mean? well.. it means we are basically going to have two babies ... and according to Kelli (the IVF coordinator) we should be prepared if there are three shown at the ultrasound... yes, I said three... one twin and a set of identical... I think John fell out of his big leather official LTC Colonel's commander's chair when I told him today... at any rate, we moved our ultrasound up to the 30th of June (that morning), Kelli didn't want to wait... and I am going go make my reservations to fly out that Thursday night (the 29th) and go with her.. I think she needs some hand holding in the event there are three little beans in there.. :-) I really am not freaked about it... I do wonder how you breastfeed three babies and how you push three babies in strollers (especially when they are older) .. or how we would fit three babies in our house or cars but... what we really hope for is that there are two VERY healthy beans cooking in Ambers tummy... We have our last beta on Wednesday so we will have more to tell then... Gran.... you just may reach your grandkid quota sooner than you thought.... Keep our soldier in your prayers.. Randy and Sharelle.... Chris as well, he comes home soon! yeah.. and thanks for reading.. Love you all... Carolyn (and John)
Posted on 19 Jun 2006 at 5:35 PM
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notdoneyet Posted on 21 Jun 2006 at 12:38 PM
Holy cow! Those are quite the numbers! Have you checked out the www.betabase.info site to see how they compare with other multiple pregnancies? Just something to chew on while you wait for that u/s!
Final Beta Number!!!
For those that haven't a clue what the betas are all about, don't worry as I am not exactly sure other than they measure the amount of HcG in the body... (what give ladies positive pregnancy tests) Here is a web site that might be helpful (I am going to check it out myself) that a journal reader of ours suggested.. www.betabase.info On to news.. I will recap for you... But first!!! I must tell you that I declined my promotion today... Why? You ask ... well, basically I like my job the way it is... I like my salary and quite frankly, plan to be a stay at home mommy here in about 8 months (Lord willing) and don't see the need for more stress when I have a plate load already... so there you have it... The boss was somewhat irritated at me initially but then the light bulb went off and she realized all that I have going on right now with being a new commanders wife and working on a baby(ies) and decided that a happy Carolyn is much better than an unhappy Carolyn that might burn out and just quit... so there you have it.. (just as a side note, it seemed to me that she is going to let me keep my salary? at least until she comes up with a solution to who is going to do the purchasing... that was my impression at least, we shall see) OK.. I know you want the real news... First beta at 9dp5dt =74, Second 11dp5dt= 958 Third 14dp5dt= 3978 Last but CERTAINLY not least 16dp5dt = 9495!!! What does this mean? well... High for 16dp5dt is 4660... Amber is DOUBLE that so Kelli (IVF nurse) is certain there are two (at least) and others in the clinic question just how many did we transfer... (jokingly) So ..... the real news will come next Friday (6/30) and you can bet your bottoms we will be posting Friday afternoon!!! We don't know if the heartbeats will be there yet but they may... so I am preparing for them not to be so I can be super happy if they are!!! Now, there is a chance that there is only one... with betas you just don't know (not until ultrasound) but from what we have read and from what Kelli tells us it looks like at least two.... SO... lets go ahead and get the calendar out and start scheduling baby sitters and mommy sitters.. :) because I know I am going to need mommy care.. :) 24/7.. We knew Amber was our fertile mertile but who knew she would be this fertile... I got a note in the mail today from Kelli giving us information on "now that you are pregnant" and our official due date, which is Feb 21 2007.. UNLESS it is two then it is Jan 24 2007, UNLESS it is three then it is DEC 27 2006... which John will not be here for.. Gees... that is only 6 months away! OH MY GOD.... OH MY GOD... I just realized that... 7 months away if twins...and 6 months away if TRIPS????? AAAAAAAAAAAAHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHH... who is going to come help me with the nursery which we cant start until after the first trimester... OH MY GOD.. 6 or 7 months away... WOW.... I am thankful I am sitting down when I realized this... Oh... sorry about that panic attack.. :) I am ok.. really... John, however might not be if he is gone and we have three beanies delivered... :) I guess I shouldn't panic until after the ultrasound... Gotta run... I hope you enjoyed my out burst .. (had a few of them today... ) You know we love you all and cant wait to post about the count!!! Keep our soldiers in your prayers (and the families of our base partners the 101st who lost two soldiers that were murdered by dirt bags over the weekend ) Keep Sharelle and Randy as well as our newest SMO buddies Stacy and Cheryl (a pair of sisters, one surrogate and the other who cant carry due to partial hysterectomy, who are transferring tomorrow!!) in your prayers!!!! Good luck guys!!!! Hugs and love to all!! Carolyn
Posted on 21 Jun 2006 at 4:46 PM
The Cat's Out of the Bag . . .
Hello Eager Readers, I am up early this morning - just couldn't sleep - my mind has been going a mile a minute since I took command and probably will until I am several months into the job. Add the excitement of command to the incredible excitement of our pregnancy and that is a recipe for fitfull sleep. I know, I know, I need to get it now before the babies get here. Once they arrive sleep really WILL be at a premium. So far command is everything I thought it would be. I have a dedicated group of hard working Soldiers and a wonderfully supportive group of families. It is such a blessing to be commanding this unit. The senior ladies in the organization hosted a "Welcome" get together for Carolyn on Thursday. She got to meet many of the ladies that she will be working very closely with as a new Battalion Commander's wife. These are the angels of our unit - they take care of all the little things, and, when we are deployed, have the awesome task of taking care of themselves and each other's families. Carolyn and I had discussed how we wanted to broach the subject of the pregnancy. Several of the key individuals in our unit are aware (my Command Sergeant Major, my Regiment Commander, the guy I replaced, etc.), but as a whole we decided to wait until after the first ultra-sound to tell anyone in the unit we are pregnant. After all, despite exceptionally high Beta numbers, we are still a long way from home with regards to the pregnancy. So we decided - we will tell no one else until AFTER the ultra-sound. I felt confident that I could keep my end of the deal and knew that Carolyn would (she is so much more cautious about these things than I am). When Carolyn returned from her welcome I asked if she had a good time. She told me it was great fun and she was very excited about working with all of the ladies. They made her feel exceptionally welcome. I asked her what all they talked about. "Well," she said, "I told them." "You told them what?" I asked. "I told them we are pregnant," she replied. I was incredulous! After she admonished me that we needed to wait until after the ultra-sound, and being reminded not to tell people at work, SHE let's the cat out of the bag! Well, no harm done. It was just kinda funny that she would be the one to offer it up to a group of ladies (many that she had met for the first time only hours before). As it turns out several of the senior ladies (wives) in my organization required IVF to get pregnant so when they started telling stories about PIO shots and the IVF procedures Carolyn couldn't help but to jump in and join the conversation. It is actually kinda nice to know that our circle of informed friends is growing. Somehow it takes a burden of secrecy off of us, and it is so much more natural to just talk about things instead of talking around them. Carolyn is very excited about her trip to Kansas next Friday. She will call me as soon as she has the results of the ultra-sound. I can't wait to hear! As soon as we have some information we will post it to the journal so everyone can share in our joy. Thanks again to each of you for your prayers, concern and caring. Once again I ask that you remember our American servicemen and women in harm's way on the vanguard of our freedom. And please keep my Darkhorse Soldiers in the forefront of your mind. God bless each of you. John (and Carolyn)
Posted on 24 Jun 2006 at 7:12 AM
30 Jun 2006
The Ultra-Sound is In!!!!
Hello Journal Faithful, Carolyn called me at 10:20 this morning and told me that we are TRULY pregnant! The ultra-sound revealed one fetus with a heartbeat of 115 (120 is usually a good measuring stick to judge viability, and since this is a 6 week 3 day ultra-sound 115 is very good). The ultra-sound also revealed another egg sac that did not show a heartbeat. There are several reasons that the second might not have a heartbeat: 1) the fetus did not/will not develop 2) the egg sac is against the uteran wall and therefore a heartbeat cannot be discerned We are hoping it is the latter of the two, but we feel so incredibly blessed to know that we have one healthy little fetus!! Amber will undergo a second ultra-sound in 10 days and we should know more about the the second fetus. We are elated at the news, and so richly feel God's blessing in all of this. Thanks to each of you for praying and thinking of us each day, and we look very forward to sharing our news at the next ultra-sound. I feel certain Carolyn will post this weekend after she returns from Wichita! John (and Carolyn)
Posted on 30 Jun 2006 at 12:08 PM
13 Jul 2006
Hmmm....
Ok.. so we have been bad about updating the journal.. we have news and have told everyone as far as I know but just haven't felt like posting.. Don't ask me why because I really don't know why.. it's just one of those things.. maybe an emotional overload.. good emotions.. So, we are having TWINS!! I cannot tell you just how happy that makes us... not only are we having twins but John got to find out the news the night before deploying ... he was really bummed about being gone when Amber was to have her next ultrasound... He got to head out knowing we have two precious little ones growing happily in Amber tummy... How we got the news early was a little frightening... Amber called me Monday night and said she had been at the emergency room because she had been having pains and was concerned.. She thought she would go and have an ultrasound to make sure everything was ok... so she is there and they do an external ultrasound and tell her they might be seeing three sacs!! she said she about passed out (and she was laying down!) but when they did the internal u/s it showed just two .... but two with perfect little fetus' and perfect little heartbeats!!! One measured 7w6d and the other 7w4d... we were actually 7w5d at the time so we are right on track... Apparently baby #1 implanted a day or two after baby #2 (the first heartbeat we saw) ... and explains why we didn't see a heartbeat the first time.. whew... we are so relieved and happy!! Amber's pain has reduced and they believe it was from the expansion of her uterus (round ligament pain?) it was normal and she shouldn't worry... the ER doc also said it could be from the fact her ovaries are active again and producing hormones.. I am sure Amber will correct me if I get this wrong.. haha.. She told me also, that she has started having morning, afternoon and sometimes evening sickness... So keep her in your prayers that it doesn't last long.. :) The sickness and pain, that is.. Well... I suppose I should get back to work.. I feel like I am forgetting something.. If I remember I will just add another post! Thanks as always for reading.. Please keep our soldiers in your prayers... Pray to keep John safe and that he isn't distracted by our news while he is gone!... Also, keep Sharelle in your prayers.. to give her strength to over come the doubt and frustration and see that there is hope... and to never give up on something you REALLY want... HAPPY BIRTHDAY RON!!!! Love to you all... You are in my thoughts... Carolyn
Posted on 13 Jul 2006 at 11:54 AM
13 Jul 2006
A PHOTO! I figured it out...
This is an old one when Amber and I first met actually ... at the Zoo in Wichita!
Posted on 13 Jul 2006 at 1:36 PM
13 Jul 2006
Another photo.. our babies...
Posted on 13 Jul 2006 at 1:40 PM
15 Jul 2006
Land of the Not Quite Right
Hello All, A quick note from John. I am in Korea visiting one of my units. I was elated to hear the news about our twins before I left to come over. I am so excited I can hardly contain myself. While I am gone I will try to post from time to time to let everyone know that I am doing fine. Take care of Carolyn, Amber and the rest of our Surrogacy gang in my absence! So long for now . . . John
Posted on 15 Jul 2006 at 6:27 PM
16 Jul 2006
My Hero
Here is a photo from the Change of Command.. it is one of my favorites.. :) Love and miss you honey.. .
Posted on 16 Jul 2006 at 11:08 AM
16 Jul 2006
The whole surrogate family!
Posted on 16 Jul 2006 at 11:09 AM
22 Jul 2006
A post from Amber from surro moms on line..
Our heaven bound little angel... -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- First of all.... Thank you ALL for thinking and praying for my IP's, baby B, and myself..... I would like to share the story of what happened because I feel this little Angel has already touched so many and deserves to be remembered for the absolute miracle that he was/is.... It all started 2 nights ago when I had the most realistic dream I have ever experienced... I dreamt, in the middle of the night I woke up to find myself bleeding... I immediately work myself up from a dead sleep and prayed that God place his hand on Carolyn's little ones and keep them safe and free from harm... The pregnancy up until now has been quite easy... no real vomiting and only come and go spells of nausea.... Fatigue but nothing to be concerned for.... Last night around 11 P.M. I found myself unable to leave the bathroom due to constant spells of vomiting... Once that subsided, I found myself unable to fall asleep, tossing and turning, with a general mental sense of being uncomfortable.... Around 2 A.M. I decided to take a warm shower to see if that would help me fall asleep. After showering, I used the restroom and found myself revisiting the dream I had had just 2 nights previous... The only problem was this time was real... My first instinct was to drop to my knees and pray... I did, collected myself, got dressed, and drove myself to the E.R. I was the only one in the waiting room and the hour I spent waiting for a room felt like an eternity.... While I was waiting I kept finding myself talking to the twins... telling them how much their mommy and daddy love them and long to be with them... I also prayed that God's will be done and that we would all be at peace in knowing his decision would be the best one.... Finally I was called back to a room, examined by the most amazingly kind doctor and taken back for an ultrasound... I could tell something was wrong by the abdominal scan but initially I thought the sac was completely empty all together... The u/s tech left after the abdominal scan to get the radiologist and returned to preform the transvaginal portion along with the E.R. doctor... Immediately I saw baby B and his little heart beating so reassuringly.... and then they turned to sac A... you could tell something was not right, and by the expression of the E.R. dr and radiologist I had already formed my own conclusion.... They scanned for what seemed forever and then the radiologist gave me her report on what she had seen... Good news, baby B looked perfect, moving, wonderful heartbeat, great looking placenta... baby A she said, didn't look promising... The growth was measuring 8weeks and 3 days she said... When she said this I immediately began to silently sob... You see, 8 weeks and 3 days was Saturday... The same day I unexpectedly lost my beloved dog, Mollie, of nearly 10 years, my baby and my babies constant gaurdian... Mollie was amazing.... when each of our girls were born, Mollie assumed the rights and responsibilities of nursery gaurd... If the girls were in the nursery, Mollie was there too and would not leave until they did... Even until the morning she passed in my arms, she was our girls constant companion... The relevance to such I will hopefully get to soon... I was wheeled back to my room and the very kind E.R. doctor sat down beside my bed, held my hand and asked if the radiologist had explained the findings to me... I said yes and he assured me once again that baby B had no apparent abnormalities and there was every reason to believe would pull through just fine. He also explained that baby A appeared to be gone... Then, something happened that surprised me, a tear began to roll down his cheek... He told me how amazing he felt surrogacy was and how sorry he was for the way things were happening. He told me how he always hated that part of the job and never understood how so many deserving people have such a hard time conceiving while others who are neglectful or harmful to their pregnancy seem to carry without a hitch... by the end, 2 nurses, the doctor, and myself were in tears... They all wished us well and said they would be praying for us.... I must admit, I had prepared myself for a matter of fact attitude and wasn't expecting the medical staff to bond to this little angel as so many of us had already as well... Before I left my nurse returned with a single red rose and a baby ring to give to Carolyn to remember the little one by... I found it the most touching gesture and they will NEVER know how much their kindness affected me today. One of the many times Carolyn and I were talking through this today I mentioned to her that the baby and Mollie passed on the same day... and I KNEW Mollie was laying by her little angels crib guarding him until they can be together again... Once I had got home, rested for a while and such I called my good friend LeAnn and she said something to me that was so touching... she knowing how much my dog meant to me said "Amber, I don't think Mollie went first, I think she followed the baby to keep it safe and from being alone" What she said meant SOOO much to me! Thank you LeAnn!!! There was also something else I was told about by Carolyn after I had got home... Her DH, my wonderful IF... had a dream last night that I delivered a very premature, still born baby.... When he asked the doctor where the other one was knowing we were pregnant with twins, the doctor replied that "he wasn't ready to come yet".... I ask that all of you pray for this little guy and that my IF's dream comes true in the sense that this little one hangs out, gets nice and strong, and then arrives healty to meet its mommy and daddy.... I wrote a poem for the little angel that I would like to share... It's still rough but I feel fits the little one and his brief life to a "T".... Grown for so long in hearts full of love A miracle so special in the making. Your mommy's sunshine, your daddy's joy, a surrogate's dream come true Your beginning, so uncertain a tiny little thing For you so many prayers were prayed but a miracle so special could not be kept here on earth rather on streets of gold your feet deserve to play A dark calm night your bassinet an ocean of stars your cover, your mommy's voice your whispered lullaby indescribable love your goodbye. You FOREVER changed me sweet child, helped me better understand, the river of tears that runs from infertility's hand. Your memory will never be forgotten your love will ALWAYS be felt A little life cut so short Yet a story that will make other hearts melt. Go now sweet darling, to God's hand find your way Wrap yourself in his mercy but peak down on us everyday. For many tears for you have been cried and I will promise you this At Heaven's gate I will find you and your forehead finally kiss and pass your hand to your mommy and dad smiling as you skip away with brothers and sisters you will reunite to live together for always. Again, thank you for all of your kind words and prayers... They are appreciated beyond words!
Posted on 22 Jul 2006 at 8:06 PM
23 Jul 2006
From Carolyn
It has taken me a while to be able to post to this thread.. so, forgive me for that... I am still that person yelling from the mountain tops about the joy for our child... yet at the same time quietly sobbing for our lost angel... I cant quite describe how I feel other than blessed beyond words for Amber and her family... I have known what an incredible person she is for the past 13 or so months but I am blown away at how much love she has... for us, for our unborn child... I have bragged that we have the best GS in the world and now I know we do... There are some GS and IPs out there that want one thing.. $$ for the GS and a baby for the IPs.. never caring if anything else comes from the "arrangement" and some, from what I have read right here on SMO, don't want more than a business agreement... I would be lying if I didn't say our goal here is to have a baby... and I am sure Amber wouldn't have agreed to be a GS for free but what we have gotten from this surrogacy is so much more than money and hopefully a baby... we have a true and honest love for each other.. for our families and for our future... I cant tell you how much Amber means to us.. how much she is a part of our family and will be a part of our child's life... I am no where near the writer she is (obviously) but I have to let all of you know what an amazing woman she is... friend she is ... mother she is and wife she is... as if you couldn't tell that from her post... I have read her post over and over.. and just sob each time.. not because I am saddened by it but because of her heart.. and how much she loves our unborn child... If I had picked out the perfect person to carry our babies, Amber would have been that person.. in fact she is FAR more than that person... It will take me some time to grieve our loss... especially with John so far away but I know that we as a team will pull through.. not only am I going to shout from the mountain tops our joy of being pregnant but I will also shout about our love, respect and admiration for Amber... I love you honey.. and words really cant express how much you mean to both of us.. Thank you all for your support of us and Amber.. your kind words and prayers are so very much appreciated...
Posted on 23 Jul 2006 at 2:34 PM
1 Aug 2006
First US with the OB
Ok.. After TWO hours of waiting.... and going crazy here at work... The US showed one very healthy baby ... Perfect and measuring 10w6d (head, right on track) and 11w2d (body, 4 days bigger.. We have a long one!) Amber really likes the Doc and she is totally cool with surrogacy, scheduled induction, us actually delivering the baby?!?(with her there) us calling if we have questions... Etc... She sounds like a really nice lady... And Amber was really excited about her. The other sac was empty but shouldn’t pose any problems with the little one... That it would most likely reabsorb and go away... :) so no problems for Amber physically miscarrying... I am SO relieved.. I am just over the top happy right now.. She got lots of photos of the little one and is sending them to us!! and I will post when I get them.. One she said the baby was waving!! AHHHH I am just so excited!!! The next u/s will be 19-20weeks (sept 27-oct 4 ish) John will be home and we can go and see the baby (and the sex, if we decide) Love you all and please keep those prayers going for John and all the soldiers in harms way... and for the families back home... we need prayers too :-) as well for Sharelle and Randy... Carolyn
Posted on 1 Aug 2006 at 2:04 PM
16 Aug 2006
HAPPY 2ND TRIMESTER!
Welcome to the second trimester! I know I have been slacking on the journaling but it just got more and more difficult dealing with the loss of baby A especially with John and Amber being so far away... I have been on a rollercoaster ride of emotions these past few months... not only with the pregnancy loss but also with all of my new duties as the commander’s wife and continuing my fight for paid maternity leave not to mention John being gone. All of it I have dealt with but none easily ... at least not by my standards. So I am sorry for not keeping this updated more often. Today is the beginning of the second trimester!! And a date that does bring me some comfort. I know anything can happen at any time during pregnancy but hitting this milestone gives me the chance to breath easier. I had my oncologist appointment Monday, I go every 6 months just because I want to, and it gives me comfort... The appointment went well, as always. Mom and I were chatting about the appointment Sunday and realized it has been 21 years since I was diagnosed with Cancer. If I didn’t feel old before, I did after that conversation. Wow! 21 years. Dr Dudley says he isn’t going to retire for at least 15 years so I have some time before I have to look for another doc. In addition to the appointment going well, we (the Nurse practitioner) were talking about the baby... she was very excited and even more so when we realized that at my next appointment I will have baby in tow! OH MY GOSH.... in less than 6 months we will have our little one... That just kick started my mind in all that I have to do before then... I did register for some nursery items but there is just so much out there that I really don’t know where to start... We have decided to NOT find out the sex of the baby until delivery so we are going with a neutral nursery theme and we picked a honey bee motif. It is so cute... I figured I can add pink flowers or blue depending on what we get! Neither of us care at all what sex baby we have so the decision was easy. Everyone thinks I will change my mind (again) but I don’t see that happening. I feel it in my gut that waiting is the best thing for us. I don’t get to experience any of those exciting firsts, first movement (which amber is feeling already!), first hiccups or any of those little things... the only thing I have control over is finding out the sex and it will be the first for all of us at delivery! I know it might be more challenging for those shoppers out there to buy “neutral” items but you’ll be ok... green and yellow are nice colors too.. There is always white! John is doing well. He tells me it is Groundhog Day without the birthday presents. (His birthday is Feb 2, Groundhog day) too funny... but mine is too really... I do the same thing for the most part everyday... I have been TRYING to train for the ARMY 10-miler we are running in October but gees, I hate to run and it is all I can do to run 3 miles on the treadmill. It is toooo freaking hot to run outside and the treadmill is just so boring... I am not sure I will make the 10 miles in the time allotted but at least I will try and john and I will get to spend a long weekend in DC. I am very much looking forward to that... Labor Day weekend I am heading to Kansas to spend the weekend with one of my favorite little ones... Meghan, it is her 2nd birthday. So not only do I get to hang out with Amber and family but I also get to go to an appointment on Friday the 1st ... I don’t think we will have an ultrasound but it will be nice to see the clinic and meet some of the staff if not the doctor that will be taking care of our baby and Amber! I can’t wait... and then the next weekend will be close to when John will get home... I don’t have a date for that but I know it is near the first week of September... Well....... I need to get back to work.... Thanks as always for your thoughts and prayers.... they are always welcomed and treasured... Please keep John and the rest of our soldiers in those prayers as well Amber and baby, Sharelle and some WONDERFUL news in the near future... My fingers are crossed as tight as I can cross them for you honey... I love you all.... Carolyn (and John)
Posted on 16 Aug 2006 at 7:12 AM
28 Aug 2006
Birth control pills.. yuck
Hello journal faithful! Again I must apologize for being lazy in regards to updating more frequently... Even with John gone, it seems there is just so much to do... I started birth control pills last Thursday and have been sick to my stomach everyday since then as well I have had headaches... joy.. for those that are wondering why I would take birth control after I have had a complete hysterectomy.. well I am going to try to induce lactation so I can breast feed little "bee" when he/she gets here! I have ordered the meds and talked to the lactation consultant and am trying to keep a positive attitude about the whole sickness thing.. it is rather unpleasant.. maybe I will lose a few pounds. haha We are currently 14.5 weeks pregnant!! It sure is going by fast... It seemed to take FOREVER to get pregnant and now that we are it is just whizzing by... I leave Thursday for the weekend in Wichita to go to an appointment on Friday but more importantly to celebrate with Meghan her 2nd birthday!! I am really excited to see them all again.. they just live to darn far away... Amber and I are trying to find a way to get them closer to us! so far we aren't doing so well... John will be home in 12 days or so..!! I cant wait!! that too has flown by... but I am sure, unfortunately, his being home will fly by too and then he will be gone again.. we are going to be so busy while he is home that I don't think we have one weekend free... By the time he gets home from the second tour we will be close to baby time.. VERY close!! almost too close.. Jan 12.. ish... I need to have a back-up plan just in case he isn't home and Amber starts labor... I went shopping with Mom over the weekend.. I didn't really buy much, just a blanket and some cute onsies!! two of each... Two? why you ask?? BECAUSE SHARELLE IS PREGNANT!!! YAHHHHHHH HOOOOOOO !!!!! So I got her one of everything I bought for myself... plus her pregnancy journal... I have to say it is a challenge to shop not knowing the sex of the baby... but I like yellow and green good thing... Once John gets home we plan to work on the nursery and start the painting process... I was telling mom it is hard to shop for two reasons.. John being gone and not actually being pregnant... It still seems surreal... I think John will help remove the shoppers block I have.. I have spent HOURS window shopping and have bought very few items.. I did finally pick out a stroller/ car seat travel system and a play yard... Laura Ashley Aqua... It is somewhat gender neutral and it was easy to operate and... well... I like it so there ya go! lets hope John does... well.. I need to get back to work.. still no news on getting paid leave after the baby comes but I am really not expecting anything to come of it... I guess they think this is a dropped matter and they probably threw my second letter in the garbage... we'll see... Please keep our soldiers in your prayers as well Sharelle and Amber (and their little belly bee's) Love you all! Carolyn
Posted on 28 Aug 2006 at 8:39 AM
31 Aug 2006
Hello from Amber!
Hi all!!! I know it has been FOREVER since I last posted, my apologies. After losing one of the twins I was a bit nervous and completely focused on the other little miracle baby. I found it hard to post much anywhere being that I was still dealing with the disappointment myself. I am in MUCH better spirits now. How could you not be when you can feel the little flutters of a miracle? Yes, that's right! I've begun to feel the baby bee move! Not consistently but with a full stomach, full bladder, and a squished uterus, I can feel him/her dance! I have a home doppler and listen to the baby's heartbeat several times a week. It has slowed down quite a bit in the past few weeks (which is common and good). At 10.6 weeks u/s the heartbeat was 174... It now runs around 160. It is so reassuring and I can't wait to show Carolyn this weekend! We have our 2nd OB appointment tomorrow morning... I'm excited that Carolyn will get to meet Dr. Rogers and see how "we" are growing. I told Carolyn I'm scared of getting on the scale. I've been eating..... ALOT! LOL!!! Mitch says I've gained 2 pounds... I think he's trying to stay in my good graces! Oh, and I had my first middle of the night craving ever a few nights ago. I wanted a frozen cherry slushee and Twizzlers from Quick Trip gas station.... Mitch was kind enough to say he would go get it for me but not before telling me I should promptly get on the phone and give John a call to let him know. We both just giggled! When he's home however I may have to make a couple of midnight phone calls just so he isn't left out of this experience! : ) I know Carolyn says that she has shoppers block but I have a feeling that will cure itself after she is able to SEE my tummy and hear the little bee's heartbeating so reassuringly! It makes me want to go shopping so I'm hoping it will have a similar effect of her! I CAN'T wait for her to be here this evening. I miss her so much in between our visits! I know we will take LOTS of pictures and hopefully get them posted so you can watch me 'grow'. I just wanted you all to know that I am so thankful for each and everyone of you! The support of me and my family from your family's is just amazing and something that I truly treasure! You ALL have a special place in my heart. I couldn't have prayed any more for a better family to help create. I feel so blessed and I thank you all for allowing my family and I into your homes and hearts with open arms! I can't wait to see the smiles this little one brings to each of your faces! Oh.... CONGRATULATIONS RANDY AND SHARELLE!!! I told you those tests were magic!
Posted on 31 Aug 2006 at 1:56 PM
4 Sep 2006
You might be hormonal if....
Alabama's song "Dixie land delight" makes you burst out into tears.. Yes... this happened to me yesterday making my drive back to Kansas City to catch my flight back home.. I am driving along... flipping through the channels and this song comes on... not one I would normally stop and listen to but for whatever reason I did and proceeded to just sob ... OH MY GOSH.... what is up with that??? Could it be because I was leaving Kansas and heading back to my "Tennessee Saturday Night" or because John is getting home soon and I can hear him singing this song (while I make fun of him).. It is one of his favorites to sing... I don't know but I just boo hoo'd ... SO anyway.. I got home last night from visiting Amber and family and I got to meet her little sister!! she was a sweetheart ... It was so fun hanging out with everyone and especially watching Meghan with her presents and bounce in her bouncy castle... :) It is a whirl wind trip but worth it... We had an appointment Friday and Amber is measuring 17 weeks (we were only 15.3 on Friday) so she is a little big but nothing to worry about... The doctor (and I) listened to the heartbeat and it was 162. She said it will slow down in the next month or so... our next appointment is in about 3.5 weeks. Amber will have the triple screen done.. blood work to test for some chromosomal abnormalities and then Sept 28th we will have the big ultrasound.. I booked our flight so we both can be there this time!! I hope we can tour the hospital or at least see the birthing area this trip.. but we do have time still.. I have some photos I am going to try to attach so you can see Amber's bump... and our little bee... John gets home TOMORROW!!! (three days early) so I am so excited!! and in a rush to clean the house a tad before he gets here... Thanks for all the well wishes and keep the soldier and Randy and Sharelle's little bean in your prayers.. We love you all!! Carolyn (and John) Some photos for you!
Posted on 4 Sep 2006 at 2:15 PM
16 Sep 2006
Nice to Be Home
Hello All, John here - finally home after a trip (literally) all the way around the world. I started off going west to Korea, then continued west to the middle east and finished my trip headed west back to the states. It was a long journey, and I am glad to finally be back at home (albeit only for a short while). I am up early this Saturday morning due to a call from work (ah, the joys of command!). No one hurt and nothing to fret about, but sometimes you just have to "wake the commander up" and ask some questions. I was elated to hear that Sharelle and Randy's journey is still progressing and we are very excited about the prospect of having a little cousin for play dates! Carolyn visited Amber, Mitch and the girls for Labor Day, and we will both head out to see the gang in two weeks (we'll be there for the 20 week ultra-sound!). I am very excited about seeing everyone. It seems like a long time since I have seen Amber and Mitch, and Amber's belly is really getting round :-) Carolyn did such a FABULOUS job with everything while I was gone. Although she would probably not admit it, she has really gotten the hang of being a Family Readiness Group Leader and the ladies already look up to her for her decisiveness, compassion, humor and straightforwardness. For those of us that know her, that should come as no surprise. I am very proud of her and the way she takes so seriously the care of the families in our unit. Nothing much more to report from here. It is GREAT to be home and I can hardly believe that we are almost HALFWAY THERE! Continued blessing on each of you. We so much appreciate your daily prayers for our safety and success. God bless you all! John (and Carolyn)
Posted on 16 Sep 2006 at 6:41 AM
17 Sep 2006
Even more exciting news!!
Last night we went to dinner to celebrate a dear friends birthday... HI Jessica!! While we were waiting for dinner one of the guys had the most bizarre plate of food from the salad bar... Ham, Cheese, eggs and honey mustard dressing... (this is a Ranch only kind of guy here) so I commented as a joke "what are you?? pregnant??" and he smiled and said YES!! then did his wife!!! OH MY GOODNESS!! I am so excited.... see, these two dear friends have been having some trouble getting pregnant much like Sharelle and Randy and too lost a baby this past February so I am elated with this news!!!! it gave me chills.... I am just so excited that our little one will have TWO others the same age to play with!!! Elizabeth joked and said we could each have a boy and girl and they could grow up to be sweethearts.. this way we would know we would like the "in-laws" ha-ha... So... a BIG FAT CONGRATULATIONS TO ELIZABETH AND LUKE AS WELL SHARELLE AND RANDY!!!!! WHOOOO HOOOOO!! I have more news that is totally unrelated to this so I will post it another time... but it will prove what a small world we live in... and it was so exciting that I didnt even care that UT lost to FL last night.. !! Love you all and please add Elizabeth and Luke to your prayers... keep that baby safe!! Carolyn (and John)
Posted on 17 Sep 2006 at 1:21 PM
17 Sep 2006
Just for Connor
After talking to our good friend Christy, whose son, Connor, is quite the little geographer, it dawned on me that I was not complete enough with my explanation of my "trip around the world". So just for Connor, here are the details - after leaving Atlanta, GA I flew 16 hours to Seoul, South Korea, I changed planes there and flew another 1.5 hours to Taegu, South Korea. After my visit in Taegu was complete, I planned to fly back to Seoul to catch another plane that would take me to my next stop. Thunderstorms cancelled my flight out of Taegu so I had to take the "Bullet Train" from Taegu to Seoul. They call it the "Bullet Train" because it travels at over 185 kilometers per hour (or about 115 mph). After arriving at Seoul Station (train station) on the "Bullet Train", I caught a bus to Seoul International aiport. I departed Seoul on my way to Doha, Qatar. Little did I know that there was an enroute stop that did not appear on my travel itinerary. About two hours into my trip aboard the Qatar Airways 767 I heard the "Fasten Seat Belts" tone and the Captain began speaking (in about three different languages) about our stop. I was amazed to hear the word "Shanghai" come out of his mouth. Yes, Connor, on my flight from Seoul, South Korea to Doha, Qatar my plane made a two hour stop in Shanghai, China. We did not get off the plane, but I could see the Red Army Soldiers outside my window patrolling the ramp at the International airport. My 14 hour flight continued to Doha, Qatar where I caught a military connection to my final destination. I got to travel back through Qatar on my way home. After leaving Qatar we stopped in Amsterdam, Holland and Detroit, Michigan before getting back to Nashville. So needless to say, I got to see many places on my last trip. The next time we are at O'Charley's, I'll tell you all about my trip, Connor. But at least now I can say that I have been to China! Mr. John
Posted on 17 Sep 2006 at 2:06 PM
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Connor Black Posted on 17 Sep 2006 at 3:14 PM
Mr. John, it's so cool that you've been to China. I thought that you were going to go to China on your trip. I can't wait to hear more about it. Love, CONNOR
20 Sep 2006
So MUCH Baby Stuff!
Hello All, I just had to post a brief note about my recent (and first real) baby shopping experience. Oh my goodness! There is SO MUCH STUFF! Carolyn and I decided, on our way to an engagement in Nashville last Saturday night, to stop and register at Babies R Us. There is not a Babies R Us in Clarksville so our only option was Nashville. To start with I could not believe the immense size of the store as we approached it from the parking lot. Carolyn smiled knowingly at me as I gaped at the place (she's already made several Babies R Us trips and the shock has worn off of her). Once we entered the store and registered with one of the customer service reps, they gave us a scanner. We spent the next hour scanning the items - all kinds of items - there is such much baby stuff out there it just blows my mind! Thus begins the education of a "soon to be" new dad . . . Guess I'll have to start taking a more active role in the "preparation" phase so I am not caught unawares again . . . (you mean there is more than one size of diaper???) John (and Carolyn)
Posted on 20 Sep 2006 at 10:45 AM
21 Sep 2006
Dr. Suess is in THE HOUSE!
Faithful Readers, We received a shipment of books last night from Amazon. These were books that Carolyn ordered as a precursor to the big arrival. The one that got my attention immediately was the Dr. Suess adaptation, "Oh Baby, The Places You'll Go!". For all of the Dr. Suess faithful out there, this is a spin off of his popular book of a similar title, but this was adapted by a mother to be read to the baby in utero. We intend to record ourselves reading the book, and then provide Amber with a CD/tape that she can play (by strapping headphones to her belly) for our little bee. I sat there and read the whole thing out loud last night. At first Carolyn was giggling, and by the time I finished she was crying tears of joy. She told me that she will have to read it to herself 4 or 5 times in order to get through a recorded reading without crying. Our experience and excitement gets more and more real everyday. Can't wait to tell our little bee about all the places he or she will go! John (and Carolyn)
Posted on 21 Sep 2006 at 7:28 AM
25 Sep 2006
For Christy . . .
. . . who seems to be concerned that I am wasting Uncle Sam's time and money to blog away on this journal. Well, in fact, I have already been at work for two hours this morning and work call is not until 9:00! Actually I am just giving my buddy, Christy, a hard time. I have made several posts from work lately, but I can assure you they were completed during coffee breaks or my lunch hour :-P Actually I am just trying to catch up since I did not have an opportunity in July and August to post very often due to my deployment. Both Carolyn and I are excited about seeing Mitch, Amber and the girls this weekend. We are really starting to know our way around Wichita. We know it will be a great visit. It always is. It will especially be fun for me since I have not seen Amber "in person" since she started "showing" (I have been admonished that I can no longer make comments about Buddha bellies). We'll be sure to give everyone a report once we return from Wichita! John (and Carolyn)
Posted on 25 Sep 2006 at 7:10 AM
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Christy Black Posted on 25 Sep 2006 at 7:20 PM
Thank you, John, for assuaging my fears about your work (or lack of it). I was seriously considering calling the COL and letting him know that you needed some additional duties--perhaps an extra battalion to command--but I guess I won't need to now. Have a great trip to Wichita and we'll see you when you get back!
4 Oct 2006
Is it a Boy or a Girl . . . ?
The truth is - we don't know yet! Hello Faithful Readers, The 20 week ultra-sound is complete (done at 19.3 weeks), and Carolyn and I were both there to see it. I got to hear my baby's heartbeat for the first time! Today marks week 20 for our little bee, and we held fast to our agreement NOT to find out the sex. Even though when I asked the ultra-sound tech if she could tell the sex, she responded very matter-of-factly, "oh, yeah, I can tell". The whole experience was amazing. We saw all the right things - two arms, two legs, a 4-chambered heart, a naturally developing head and brain, little toes, little fingers, and we were even treated to the baby flicking his/her tongue in and out. Both Carolyn and I are convinced we saw the tale-tell signs of the sex (I thought I saw masculine indications, Carolyn was sure she saw feminine plumbing). One of us will be right, but the bottomline is - our baby is healthy! Our weekend with Mitch, Amber and the girls was great. We really enjoyed seeing them and had a great time just hanging around Wichita and going to the corn maze on Saturday night. Although we had to end our adventure through the maze a bit early (Carolyn and I had an early flight on Sunday), I am certain we would have found all the clues and found our way completely through the maze given enough time. Our schedule is unbelievably hectic over the next three weeks. Carolyn has not dropped off the face of the earth, but she is trying to handle a huge event at work this week and be the best Family Readiness Group Leader in the Army (which she is). She promises to get back to the journal very soon, but I thought I would make a post this morning before I head out for a run. Happy Birthday to Daniel, Ginny and Jason. They all had big birthdays in the last few weeks. We'll talk to everyone soon! John (and Carolyn)
Posted on 4 Oct 2006 at 6:10 AM
4 Oct 2006
Beautiful Baby BEE!!!
Hi All! It is Amber coming to follow up John's post with one of my own. As John said, we had our BIG ultrasound this past Friday and all was PERFECT. There were absolutely no indications that the bee was negatively affected by our earlier loss of twin A. In fact, the bee seems to be doing just the opposite and THRIVING!!! We were 19 weeks and 2 days at our ultrasound and the baby was consistently measuring a full week ahead in every measurement, and weighed approximately 12 ounces! Another very reassuring sign was the beautiful sight and sound of the Bee's tiny little heart, pumping heartily away at 155 beats per minute. I am really feeling this little one now. In fact, just today the baby actually was pushing on my hand. I can't wait for John and Carolyn to be able to "feel" their little one! As to whether this little angel is a boy or a girl? Well, it was obvious in the brief 1.5 seconds the technician was viewing that area. YES! Either John or Carolyn are right, but I won't be telling! ; ) I will be waiting for Carolyn to confirm my assumption upon this little ones birth and then anxiously awaiting the reaction of you all as you learn of your newest family member! A little about me, I have been put on Pepcid AC twice a day due to the fact that I am suffering from reflux. The doctor isn't certain if it will continue throughout the entire pregnancy or if it is a "growing pain" so to speak. However, after 2 sleepless nights and days and the inability to eat or drink a thing my doctor suggested we try a medicinal approach. I must admit, I am feeling much better. Also, as of last Monday, Sept. 25, I have gained 9 pounds from prior to the transfer until now. A little than I typically have gained at this time put only by about a pound or two. This little one is an absolute joy and I am so thankful that I am lucky enough to share this time with him/her. I have learned the purest form of love and trust, thanks to John and Carolyn, and I am honored to be able to shower this little one with all the love myself and my family possess. I know that the birth of this little one is just the beginning and I am so excited to know that in just over 4 months this little one will be here and I will be able to view this child with the family that loved it so much even before it existed. What an amazing gift you have all given me! Thank YOU!!! As a side note, Sharelle and Randy, Once again Congratulations! I can't wait to hear of each milestone you both have while awaiting the birth of your own little miracle!
Posted on 4 Oct 2006 at 1:28 PM
5 Oct 2006
Photos...
Sorry but I have been so busy and have had no time to do much of anything other than work and "volunteer" ... I have three photos for you guys... from our ultrasound last week (19.2weeks) we are heading to DC for the Army 10-Miler but when we get back I plan to post a more detailed entry... Yeah Sharelle, Randy, Elizabeth and Luke!!! Both couples had great appointments with their OB's.. Elizabeth and Luke had their first ultrasound and I am still waiting for the photos!! but here are some from our visit! We love you all !! Carolyn and John..
Posted on 5 Oct 2006 at 8:29 PM
5 Oct 2006
A few more photos!
Amber just prior to the ultrasound.. signing her life away.. :) John and the girls... getting in good "daddy" practice..
Posted on 5 Oct 2006 at 8:48 PM
17 Oct 2006
Shame on me....
I am so sorry it takes me so long between entries... Life certainly has kicked into high gear with the military and I have barely enough time to eat dinner most nights.. :) I haven't updated you guys on the Army 10-Miler I don't believe... I MADE IT!!! I did have a slight issue that started around the 5th mile.. I had to stop running and power walk the remaining 5 miles.. I finished within the time requirements but I really did my knee in... In fact I went to the Dr today about it.. I have "Classic Tendonitis" and he wrote me a prescription... It had been 11 days so I thought a visit to the Dr was in order.. John ran beside me the whole way and cheered me on!! It was so nice to have him with me keeping me going....The next time you see John ask him about his "issue" at the race... I really cant wait to go next year.. Leslie did a great job.. she beat me in fact!! way to go !!! DC was nice. I don't want to live there but it was fun to visit.. we did have a personal capital tour (after hours) that was really neat.. I even got to touch the lucky boot that is now illegal to rub.. (don't tell anyone) haha... we also got to see the tomb where they place everyone that they have funeral services for at the capital... The very same one they place Reagan on... It was very emotional... (and is not part of the normal tour) We also visited several of the museums... they were fun but had too many people and my knee was KILLING ME!! :) Lastly we went to Arlington and watched the end of the changing of the guards.. it really is breath taking to be there.. among all the fallen... Secondly, we had our 25th Anniversary of the Nightstalkers this past weekend... (along with two days of Lady Nightstalker conferences, two socials and a golf tournament in three days) The formal was wonderful...the best I have been to so far.. Other than the commander's wife and I having the same taste in dresses it was perfect.. We had the formal at the Opryland hotel so we all stayed the night and partied way to hard.. at least John did. haha.. just ask him about it... There were plenty of stars around (1's, 2's 3's and 4's) and other well known folks.. it was a lot of fun and my first as the first lady of 2nd bn... I finally feel like I fit in... Here is a photo of myself and Andrea as well Christy (two readers of this here journal) All the pregnant ladies are doing well... Elizabeth has had her first ultrasound and all is just as it should be! and Sharelle is progressing wonderfully!! I am just so excited that our little Bee will have two buddies to play with that are the same age... yeah!!... Amber has had some issues with heartburn.. like big time heartburn... so apparently the Bee is going to have hair down to his or her booty... she is better but still has some pain... so sorry honey... John and I did record our voices for Amber to play to the bee and she tells me when John's voice plays the bee just jumps all around.. looks like we are going to have a daddy boy/girl.. (I think girl) :-) She is planning to come here in early November for two showers and I am so excited to see her again... her and her round tummy.. Please keep all of them in your prayers... keep their "bee's" safe and sound... as well our soldiers and their families.. welcome home Sal and Chris!! we are so happy you made it home in time for the formal!!!! Love you all Carolyn
Posted on 17 Oct 2006 at 11:57 AM
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notdoneyet Posted on 17 Oct 2006 at 6:46 PM
Congrats on getting through the 10-miler. I didn't know you were going to be right here in town. I hope you had a good visit -- I love DC!
4 Nov 2006
Nov 4th 6 am?
24weeks 3days pregnant! Only 109 days to go!! Well... I am awake and up at 5:30 this morning the day after my 37th bday... why? who knows... but I usually feel better when I elect to get up opposed to going back to sleep, only to wake with a sleep hangover.. (those are just no fun) My birthday was filled with both happy and sad emotions... I really had no plans other than to get my hair cut and work on the nursery... but I got a call from John that we needed to go to the hospital to visit a family that just lost their newborn baby... This was something we all knew was coming, just we expected it next week so we were all caught off guard. We visited with them and were just amazed at their strength... She held him in her arms as they waited for the people to come that were going to take his heart valves to help save another child's life... The saddest part about this is that it was the second child in three days we had to see laying there dead... the other was an 18 year old student who died needlessly due to an alcohol related incident. It just breaks our hearts to see the families of these children, friends of ours, have to suffer... Secondly we had our own scare two days ago when Amber started having contractions.. She had no pain, bleeding or leaking, but contractions none the less.... So while I was at the hospital basically 6 months pregnant visiting a family just after they lost their little boy (who's birthday I share:-) ) Amber was sitting at the doctors office waiting to be examined to rule out preterm labor... She did finally get to see a doctor, not our OB but that is ok, and she said they appear to be Braxton hicks contractions and that "bee" is just fine... Amber's blood pressure was slightly elevated so they want to have her come in Tuesday (prior to coming here for the showers) and just make sure she is ok to travel... Amber was so cute telling me she told the doctor "there is no way I am going to call baby bee's mommy, on her birthday, and tell her that I cant make it to the showers next week" I just keep praying that everything is ok and that she will be able to make it.. I know the girls will just be so upset if it falls through... but you know, what is most important is Amber and Bee's health... if it means I have to dress up in a pregnant belly, then I will ha-ha... :) Please keep all of them in your prayers.. There were so super happy notes for the day.... I really got a lot of work done on the nursery... for those that don't know, I am painting the bottom third green, the top 2/3s yellow and between I have made 1x4's (chair rail) covered and padded with black gingham fabric.... well I have the painting done and finished the covering of the chair rail and today we are going to mount the rail on the walls.. this is what I was thinking about when I woke up..the 'how exactly are we going to mount this stuff" thought.. I also covered all the outlets with the black gingham (the light switch I added little wooden bee's) and will make a drape of the same fabric for the closet door (there isn't a door currently) and for the window treatment ... I will probably add a sheer cover over the gingham for both the door and window but I haven't gotten that far yet... I found a stencil of a bee that I might use for around the room as an extra touch and also some cute larger wooden bees that we will use to cover either the nails or screws that we mount the chair rail. I also plan to get some cheap picture frames from the dollar store and cover them with the black gingham as well.. (another thought when awake at 5am on a Saturday) Lots of ideas but little time to execute.. ha-ha... kind of like journaling.. I think about what I want to type here while driving to work but once I get there I don't have enough time to actually do it! More good news... Amber and Mitch are moving off base!! they got the lease on the house/townhouse that is s so much larger than their base house and will be moving in just a few weeks... I am sooooo happy for them because they sure were cramped up in that little house... :) yeah yeah yeah... and I will get to see it when I visit in December!! Between Amber and I, I don't think we have a moment free of something going on... I got the coolest camera for my birthday as well... I won a free camera a few months ago, it was really nice and I liked it but I dropped it when we were in DC and it stopped working properly... I have a large cannon digital that I really love too but it is large and I cant really carry it in my pocket (like for the formal and such) so I told John I wanted to get a smaller one that would be easy to travel with and bam... that is what he got me... an Olympus 710 stylus... it is so nice... I LOVE IT... especially when I asked for nothing... I also got beautiful flowers from DeWayne and Jessica as well from Amber and family (bee included) an adorable snowman cookie jar and some baby items (thank you Christy and Andrea) and a gift certificate to my favorite store Chico;s from Carolyn and John... oh, I cant forget, Ashley, Colby and Stoner got me a book " from Iraq with love" it is about some soldiers that come across a puppy while on a mission and how the puppy changed their lives.... It sounds really cute and sweet!! but it better not make me cry... I do enough of that already... Today we are heading to my friend Cerae's for a party to watch UT play LSU.. should be a good game and it will be Cerae's and John's first meeting.. I am sure they will both like having a face with a name... and we might do some shopping as well while in Nashville... Sharelle is doing fine with her pregnancy.. she was sick for about 24 hours with a nasty bug or food poisoning, but is better now and the baby is as well... they were worried with her being so sick that the contractions of her throwing up might have bothered the baby but not so... the little one is still there doing just fine! Elizabeth is doing well also.. she has some bouts with sickness but I think she is more tired than anything... I just cant wait to have so many right there with me when we all have new borns at home to play with.... exciting and scary at the same time!! I think that covers most all of what is going on in our lives right now.. and gets you guys caught up... I am so looking forward to what we have coming up... the showers of course, going to NC for Thanksgiving, visiting Amber the middle of December. Then Christmas with Nate and Caroline and the Ruppel family, New Years (but I have no plans as John will be gone) and before you know it baby bee right here in our arms!!! and oh will life change!! Love to you all Carolyn (and John)
Posted on 4 Nov 2006 at 6:09 AM
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I Finally Caught up!!
DeWayne Posted on 9 Nov 2006 at 2:46 PM
Howdy! After many unsuccessful tries at trying to make time to read all the entries, I finally caught up!! I Love those black & white pictures you took in D.C., those are frame-able. Sorry to hear about the bad news on your Birthday, but I'm glad that your Hubby's gift made you happy. (Way to go, Commander!). I look forward to seeing you this weekend at your shower (I'll bring the soap!! :-p).
21 Nov 2006
Getting ready for Baby Bee!!
Hello and good morning!!! It is 5:45 and I am at work (last day before the long holiday weekend in NC!!) I wanted to give you all an update on Amber and the likes... She had an appointment yesterday morning to have her glucose level tested (for Gestational Diabetes). This is a standard test so she didn’t have this done because of any concerns... She is having some swelling in her hands and did gain 8 pounds in the past two weeks which the Dr wants to watch... these are signs of Preclampsia but she had no protein in her urine which is the biggest sign.. She also wants to see Amber every two weeks from now until delivery just to “keep a closer eye on her” with the contractions and her cervix softening. She still hasn’t dilated any but the baby is sitting low and head down so she doesn’t want to take any chances with Bee deciding to come early... Amber has been instructed to head to the ER if she detects any changes in the contractions or in her body at all... her labors are very fast and low on the pain scale so it could easily happen very quickly... The Dr said the baby is weighing close to 3 pounds already and Amber is measuring 2+ weeks ahead (measuring 29+ weeks yesterday when we were only 26.5) looks like we might have a linebacker in there!! Haha... She isn’t on bed rest but if she starts to dilate she will most likely have to go on bed rest and possibly medical (in hospital) bed rest... so please pray that doesn’t happen... I know Amber would go NUTS if she had to be cooped up in bed for however long... I would have to start my leave early and go hang out with her... John will be gone so I might as well!! She is still restricted to not traveling more than one hour from home so it looks like she’ll have both Thanksgiving and Christmas at her house this year... One thing is the Dr thinks there is a good chance Amber will only go to 36 weeks... with baby arriving the end of January opposed to early February... My thoughts, as long as both Amber and baby are healthy I am happy... I have no issue seeing our little one earlier as long as he/she is healthy! I am, however, preparing myself for the possibility of John not being home in time AND for the possibility of me missing the birth also... Amber tells me she will cross her legs and fight off any Drs until I get there but sometimes you can’t control those things... (Insert prayers here!) This way I am not just totally upset if I can’t get there in time... John and I have discussed this at length and we both agree that if bee comes and we cant be there what is most important is bee being healthy and taken care of... we both know that no one besides John and I loves this baby more than Amber... (with Gran and Grammy a close third) so baby bee will be in good hands.... I do need to get my game plan in order for stone and all in the event the call comes and I have to bolt!!.. Any volunteers to take stonewall last minute out there?? Haha... I just thought about him this morning on my drive... and what we would do with him in the event we had to just go... hmm... more to ponder.... On to other news... I just about finished the nursery... (photos attached) I had the best time thinking of things to do and how to do them... I never knew I was actually a crafty person!! We are both so Theproud of it and gladly will show it to whom-ever wants to come see it!! showers were so much fun... THANK YOU CHRISTY AND ANDREA for the Bee themed shower!! It was so nice and as I have told you, I feel as if I need a bill board on 101st parkway to show how grateful I am to you both! I couldn’t ask for better friends... and thank you mom (and Madelaine) for the “family” shower... It too was lot of fun and I got to see some old friends I haven’t seen in a while (hello Alisa!!) Carolyn, Tina and Ginny (I think) are doing a mini shower this weekend while we are there since they were unable to make it to the two here... my work friends are planning one as well and Amber and I are going to “shower” ourselves with shopping when I head to Wichita the middle of December..!! It feels like springtime will all the showering going on... and for someone that really didn’t want a shower it seems I am getting the hang of it! Haha... Ok... I could go on and on, really, but I need to get to work!! I hope all of you know how much John and I love you... I know we don’t say it as much as it needs to be said but we do... from the bottom of our hearts... We are so thankful and grateful for all of you and your love and friendships... without that our lives wouldn’t be nearly as blessed... Please keep our soldiers in your thoughts and prayers... this week and throughout the holidays... Pray God protects them and keeps them and their families safe wherever they are located. (John included as he leave Monday)... Love you all, Carolyn (and John) Here are photos of the nursery!! This on has a camio of Ashley!! and lastly, What we are going to bring to the Thanksgiving table!!!! A closer look and, yes, all those little spots are wild turkeys!!
Posted on 21 Nov 2006 at 6:30 AM
7 Dec 2006
7 weeks and counting!!
Good morning all... I have a few minutes to post an entry so here we go!! Ya'll know John is visiting the sandbox so I am passing the time with FRG meetings, Holiday parties, Christmas and New Year celebrations... Yes, he will be gone for these but what better time (as far as keeping my mind off his being gone and making the time pass) for him to be gone? Of course I would MUCH rather him be home all the time but we all know that isn’t going to happen.. Even when Bee arrives... so I have my calendar marked counting down the days until he is back in my arms!! (Not much longer honey) Amber had an appointment this past Monday (sorry for the delay) and we FINALLY had a positive appointment... Yeah!! We were 28.5 weeks (now we are 29.2) but were measuring 32!! WOW.... Between John, our egg donor and Amber, we grow big babies!! We still don’t have a for sure go date for induction but the doctor did say she would induce the 37th week (Jan 31-Feb 6) if Amber had any dilation at all, given she doesn’t go into labor prior... She, the dr, didn’t think she would start labor early but just wanted to throw that out there... so it looks like we MIGHT have another groundhog's day baby!! I think that would be so neat to share a birthday with such a special baby... we shall see... Amber is still having some contractions but not like she was and the dr has given her three weeks until the next appointment... YEAH... She also has had no reflux and her blood pressure has remained normal! whew... I think this is the first appointment that I haven’t been totally stressed over...She is still skinny (as far as being pregnant goes) and only gained 1 pound this past two weeks... Baby is weighing about 3.5 pounds so we do have a healthy large baby bee growing in there! Amber’s next appointment is Dec 26th so we’ll have more to post then!! I am heading to KS to see the gang in a week and I am so excited... excited to see them all, to go shopping for more baby stuff AND for our 3/4D ultrasound... Which of course I will post photos of when we get them!! If you have never seen a 3D photo you will be amazed... I also plan to send a copy of the disk to John so he can see his little one!! The 3D is what you all know... 3 dimensional, the 4D is real time and motion... very cool!! And THANK YOU!! Amber for such a wonderful shower present!! One we will never forget... Both my pregnant buddies are doing well... Sharelle and Elizabeth! In fact we are all planning to take some classes together... Infant CPR and Newborn care... I wish they had a book on the newborn care issue... but that is what I have you guys for?? Right... Ok... I need to get back to work... Please pray for our soldiers in harms way and their families back home... especially over the holidays... Keep Sharelle and Elizabeth (and their babies) in your prayers as well!! We love you all and for those we won’t see, have a very merry Christmas... Carolyn (John and baby bee!)
Posted on 7 Dec 2006 at 7:30 AM
10 Dec 2006
Just a Quick Hello
Hello Journal Readers, I just wanted to take a moment to send a note out to everyone to let them know I am doing well. Carolyn and I were incredibly excited to hear of the good news after Amber's last doctor's visit. We were never really worried, but we knew that Amber was feeling a lot of discomfort and we were hopeful that things would get easier for her. We are VERY excited for her, Mitch, Bailey and Meagan as they begin a new chapter in their lives OFF-POST. I know they are excited about having a bigger place (although I am sure Amber is still busy putting things in their proper place). Carolyn is VERY excited about her upcoming trip to Kansas. I wish I was there to accompany her, but I will be home before you know it. It is hard to imagine that by the time I get home we will be within a month of being new parents. The excitement is almost more than I can bear, but it certainly makes my time here go much faster. Please keep Amber, Mitch, the girls and all of our American servicemen and women in your prayers this holiday season. I promise I will send another update soon. May God bless and keep you until next time! John
Posted on 10 Dec 2006 at 9:42 AM
21 Dec 2006
A weekend with Bee
Hello everyone!! I sure hope you are all ready for Christmas, it is only 5 days away!! I have been super busy at work these days, gearing up for my leave and training someone to do my job that has little computer skills... I have about a month to go before leaving and I CANT WAIT!!! I just spent the weekend with Amber and family... I have to say it was the best weekend yet... Our 3D ultrasound was scheduled for 11:30 Friday morning and my flight didn't arrive until 8:30 that morning, add 30 minutes to get my car and then 3 hours of driving, I made it to Wichita by 11:45... 15 minutes late but the first thing I saw when I walked in was our beautiful baby's face on the screen!! It took my breath away... Here is a sneak peak!! I know I would have just started bawling if I weren't so freaked out trying to get there in time to not miss it all together! (I will attach some photos at some point) Amber looks just so beautiful... she FINALLY looks pregnant and just glows... We spent most of the weekend shopping and just hanging out... I certainly wish John could have been there with me but Amber and I got some good "girl time" in and I really enjoyed it... the girls are just too cute and we had such a good time painting bellies... (all of ours) haha... We decided to paint Amber's belly like a bee hive and I have to say, if I don't say so myself, it actually looked pretty good for a non-painter! and then we had to paint the girls bellies too... Bailey wanted a spider and a flee and a bunny on her belly and Meghan wanted a fee and a bunny... then THEY decided to paint MY belly... it was too much fun... and I think we managed to keep the new house free of paint as well!! We still have to get John home and I have to buy a car... (new car seat has to have a new car to go into, right?? haha) everything else is here but the stroller and it is being shipped as I type!! I am just so excited I cant contain myself!! Tonight, Sharelle, Elizabeth, Luke and I are taking an infant CPR class here at the hospital... and I think Sharelle and I are going to shop prior to the class.. imagine that?? haha... There is always a need to SHOP!! and in January John will be home in time for the newborn care class... I need to get back to work.... for those that I don't see daily, I hope you have a Merry Christmas!! I will be thinking about you all over the next week and hoping you are feeling as blessed as I do right now... Please keep all of our soldiers in your prayers... Pray that God wraps His arms around them and keep them all safe... to please be with the families that are apart from their loved ones over the holidays as well... Carolyn (and John)
Posted on 21 Dec 2006 at 6:15 AM
Coby Referral Anniversary
14 years ago
