Life With Five!

No one can write a book and tell you everything you need to know to become a parent. It doesn't come with an instruction manual. Just sit back and enjoy the ride. I've learned to become more patient, and to seriously make time for myself because I deserve it! God blesses everyone in different ways, for our family it has been with children. I'm an infertile mom, who has overcame the odds. I thank God daily for this life I'm given. To be a wife, mother, and Godly example to not only my children but to anyone who enters my life.

I hope you have enjoyed my latest entries and I plan to write more in the days, weeks, to come. :)

Moment Of Truth

July 1- Libby was given a "car seat test" and I didn't sleep the night before because of so much worry I had. I came in and the nurse told me she had to go 90 minutes and her heart rate and oxygen levels had to stay within a certain range. If they couldn't then we would have to wait another 24 hours and repeat the test. I had my fingers crossed and hit my knees in the waiting area for parents and family. I was early that morning and had the area to myself. I felt peace come over me, I knew My God was listening and He was there with me. I knew whatever may happen, God would be there with me. 

She Passed! 

Because certain paperwork and blood gasses were not back in time, we had to wait another day before we could bring her home. I didn't care, She made it over the biggest hurdle to come home. We didn't have to re take it either. Whew! 

July 3- Libby came home from the hospital. The day had come to bring her home. It was a bittersweet moment, I was going to miss my nurses and staff. I am forever grateful for ALL the love and care given to my Libby Lou. 

 From Left to Right: Layla, Lacey, Lucas, and Laura

These siblings were overjoyed to meet there new sister, love on her!  My children are so loving, caring, and I couldn't be more proud of each of them. 

July 5th- Safe and Sound in her crib at home where she was meant to be.

Sweet dreams my lil preemie.

July 10- 1 Month Old :)

Faith being tested..

After being in the NICU for an entire week, on June 17 I was able to hold her. It was such an emotional moment for me and my husband. I was allowed to hold her for exactly 10 minutes and I was going to enjoy each one. Holding back tears, I thanked God for this moment. We prayed over our child and spoke softly to her. It was the best day ever.

June 18- Libby needed the light. It would be a few days before I could hold her again. I had to sign paperwork to have a pik line placed into her naval and I was not allowed to touch her. She had lost weight and was fragile. I started to have doubts and wonder what would happen next. 

June 19- She was taking a break from the light. I was able to touch her hand and talk to her in the small openings in her bed. I quietly sang "You are my sunshine" and prayed that today had better news.

June 20-Look at those long toes!

Off the light and in more stable condition. I breathed a sigh of relief and asked God to forgive me for doubting Him. I changed her diaper, and was able to feed her my milf threw her feeding tube. It was a good day.

June 21- I walked in to the shock of my life. She had been moved out of her cage, (as I referred to it as) and placed into a crib. I was overwhelmed with joy. 

 I was able to hold her, and Nurse her for the first time! It was a wonderful day for us both. I didn't want to leave at then end of the day. 

June 24- Kyle was able to hold her. He was in heaven this day. He didn't want to put her down or even let me have a turn! 

June 27- ALL needles were removed! Only monitors were hooked up. When I had to nurse her, she was stable enough for feedings and then placed back on her monitors. I couldn't believe how she was progressing. I was in awe of my child and the obstacles she had overcome. 

 No more pics, mom!

June 28- Libby had gained her weight back and then some. She was healthy and thriving beautifully. 

 Daddy came to get some snuggles.

June 29- Made some Lactation cookies and we bonded.

 Of course, you went right back to sleep. I sat and sang to you and talked to you softly while you slept. I didn't want to leave you.

June 30- You were what they call "Milk Drunk". Slept most of my visit, but I held you anyways. I spoke to the doctor and he told me you had to pass a "car seat test" in order to go home. I was excited he even mentioned you getting to "go home". 

Just 1 More..

When you think that God has given you everything you could ever need in your life He blesses us with "Just 1 More".

What I thought was going to be a "routine" maternity visit, became more than I had bargained for. I'm so glad my mother was with me. I was 4 cm dilated. I was also 32 wks pregnant. My heart raced, and I began to pray that God would protect my child no matter what was about to happen. I was sent to the Labor and Delivery floor and the nurses proceeded to administer shots in my upper arms to stop contractions. I was hooked up to monitors immediately. It all went by so fast, I was still in a daze trying to mentally process what was happening to me. My regular OB doctor was not in and the "on call" doctor had to deliver. I bawled my eyes out. I was not ready to give birth. God knew what was going to happen before we did and He had a huge hand in it all. My contractions wouldn't stop and once I became 6 cm the most horrible pain began to happen. There was no time for an epidural and my husband and family were in route to the hospital. After my husband arrived, I was at 7 cm and getting closer and closer to delivery. I remember keeping my eyes shut, concentrating, eating ice chips, and once I was at 10 cm climbing the railings on the hospital bed, my knuckles were turning white from holding on so tightly. Labored breathing,screaming, moaning out in agonizing pain. I keep saying "I cant do this, I'm getting tired. Just Please God give me strength" With my chin to my chest I gave one last push and the most horrifying moment happened, no cries..silence. After suctioning out her mouth and nose a soft weak cry came from my daughter. On to my chest she went, her eyes opened and we met. I cried and she smiled at me. In that moment I knew God was not finished with me yet nor my child. After being put on the warmer, she began to turn blue around her mouth. Immediately oxygen was placed on her nose and mouth and a nurse pushing an incubator clear box entered my room. Her lung had collapsed and she was premature. They whisked her away to the NICU. I lay on the table being cleaned up as the tears poured out of my eyes. I got a shower, put on a clean gown and robe, slipped on my house shoes and yes I Walked to the NICU. I was going to see my baby, and even though it hadn't even been 2 hours after I had her I was determined to see her. I saw her everyday and I pumped for her everyday. I longed for that maternal bond with my daughter. God taught me patience in these visits. Some days were worse than others and then there were really great days she made such progress. I'm so thankful to the staff at St.Vincent's in Birmingham,Al. They really took excellent care of my child and truly cared for myself as well.

Meet Libby Louise. Libby Lou for short :)  

Born 6/10/16  Weight: 5lbs 10oz. Length: 19in.

Libby remained in the NICU for 24 days. God challenged us more than ever with this last child. I had her naturally. God gives us moms strength we never knew we had. It was an experience I would never forget! My heart is so full and I am so blessed to be a mom again. 

Thank You Lord for my sweet, strong child.