Welcome Elijah Dufresne!!!

We were blessed with a beautiful baby boy on November 29, 2011.  Elijah decided that it was ready to come a few weeks early.  I was preparing to go to work and moments away from leaving the house when my water broke. I call the doctor after a few minutes of disbelief and anxiety.  I was not ready and did not have my bags packed yet. I woke up Rich and gathered a few things.  We headed for the hospital and then the contractions began.

I had two fears during my pregnancy: 1) being sent home after false labor and 2) delivering on the interstate heading to the hospital since we lived 50 minutes away. 

We arrived at the hospital about 8am with excitement and disbelief.  We had waited for this moment for so long. After getting checked in, the doctor determined that I was dilated to 4cm and 90% effaced. This was a good start.

I was surrounded by so many great staff members and a wonderful caring husband. They helped to create such a positive energy which kept me going through the challenges of labor.  Many words of encouragement and support. I had my own cheering squad as my labor progressed.

I labored on the birthing ball for a while and then headed to the tub for a few hours. The water was soothing. About 12ish, I was dilated to 9cm and 100% effaced. The contractions were right on top of each other and the pain was becoming unbearable. It was time for the epidural.  I was so surprised by how much that I had endured so far and still had a big smile on my face.  I was reminded of my on strength. All that the body goes through to bring God’s children to this earth is truly miraculous.

After the fourth attempt, the epidural was finally in place and life became much easier to bear.  I found it quite ironic that the anesthesiologist who was able to place the epidural catheter lived in the same neighborhood in SLC, UT at the same time I did. I had to move to VT to meet him.

The epidural slowed down my labor and after a couple hours of pushing, the doctor mentioned that if things did not progress further I may need to consider a C-section.  That was all Elijah and I needed to hear because in the next hour Elijah made his debut.  Weighing in at 8lbs 2oz and 20in. 

Through all the struggles of pregnancy that brought me to that moment, I never could have imagine how quickly they would fade and the extreme joy that would replace it.

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Elijah was very sleepy and struggling to breastfeed. We discovered that his Bilirubin was elevated, which is normal, but it continued to climb to a critical level. He was placed on UV lights to help his body process the Bilirubin.  The Wallaby was not effective and he was needing more intense therapy. My nurse advocated for me and encouraged the doctor not to send him to the NICU. Thanks to her, Elijah was able to stay with me and they brought in the isolette with the big light.  I had to have Rich bring my eye mask so that I could sleep at night.

 

Rich gave Elijah a priesthood blessing and my wonderful family prayed and fasted for him. The next day his levels started to drop. After a week Elijah and I were able to go home. We know that God had a hand in helping Elijah to heal.  He truly was a gift from God.

I also had my own challenges. After deliver, I began hemorrhaging and lost at least a liter of blood. I had a great nurse who quickly picked up on what was happening and got the doctor involved. Within a couple of hours, I had stopped hemorrhaging. My nurse stayed past the end of her shift to make sure that my needs were met.  I am greatly appreciative of the awesome nurses that cared for me. I was white as a ghost which is quite different than my usually rosy complexion. It took some time to get my blood count up and my energy back.

The pic above was taken a number of days after delivery when I was feeling a bit more perky,

Elijah’s Baby Blessing

This was a proud day in the Dufresne House.  Rich was able to perform his first baby blessing. He was nervous, but did an excellent job. Elijah was a angel during the process.  My heart was full and the tears flowed. I dreamed of this day for so long.  I am grateful for a wonderful husband who was worthy to hold the priesthood and perform this blessing.  Thanks to Grandma, Elijah was the best dressed little man.  We were saddened that family could not attend, but knew they were there in spirit.

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Elijah’s First Christmas

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We had a wonderful Christmas.  Elijah was the best present ever, and a close second was having Mom here helping with Elijah, feeding us, and organizing the house. We were sad to see her go, but I promised Dad that I would send her home.

The Santa Suit that Elijah wore was a pleasant surprise. I have no idea where it came from. It just magically appeared when Mom and I were organizing the Nursery just before Christmas.  Everyone ooed and awed when he wore it.

I also had a nice surprise when I opened my present and found a Kindle inside.  My jaw dropped.  I have used it quite a bit since.

Elijah

Growling like a lion. He was not happy that I woke him to change and then had the audacity to take his picture.

 

 

 

Frostbite is having Sibling Rivalry.  She has been keeping her distance most of the time. There is occasional hissing, but things are gradually getting better. Frostbite is quite territorial.

 

 

This is one of his favorite places to be. The swing was a heaven sent gift from a generous ward member. I love this bib ‘cause it is so true.

 

 

 

Grandma gave Elijah a nickname,  “Mister Grunt”  He always grunts when is falling asleep or waking up and sometimes when he is eating.  It is quite hilarious.  I guess he wants to make sure everyone is paying attention to him.

Ready for the Snow!

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

I loved this suit. It was so soft and furry.

Preparing for Baby Dufresne

The time is coming closer. We have so much to do before we are ready. My co-worker has generously given us a crib that converts to a toddler bed. We need to assemble it and paint it a chocolate brown. Rich and I went to Babies ‘R Us and registered. I was so overwhelmed and excited about all the things babies need.  It was fun to dream and plan for the near future. I still need to go back and add more. It was more tiring than I envisioned it would be.  This little one is going to be spoiled by everyone around him.

Also need to set up a place for Mom to stay. I am so excited to at least see her this year. It was heartbreaking to cancel our Dec trip home to see the family, but what took its place is well worth it.  We are hoping to be moving to Utah by the end of next year God willing.

Sneak Peak!

Just 6 months ago on General Conference weekend, we were blessed with the news that our family was expanding. Wow! Time has quickly flown by. Rich and I are filled with nervous and excited anticipation for this sweet spirit to bless our lives. When I hear “Just Haven’t Met You Yet” by Michael Buble on the radio, I have tears of joy come to my eyes and start singing along to the baby.

In spite of the aches and pains, the pregnancy has gone well. Our little boy is frequently on the go now.  Hope it is not telling of a future of constantly chasing him around.  I have had the joy of listening to his little heartbeat through my stethoscope at home. This has added to our bonding experience.  It is still quite unbelievable that there is a living being inside me and watching him move/bounce in my belly is awesome.  He loves to be on the right side of my belly most of the time.

Here are some previews of what’s to come!!! (20 week Ultrasound)

Our Little One was very stubborn and insisted on moving away from the technician or covering up with arms and legs.  I did not mind since it meant the technician and to look a bit longer.  I was enjoying every second see this wonderful baby that was part of me. Waving to the world. Looks like he’s wearing shades. So excited to get this beautiful profile shot. Rich is certain that he will have my nose. Guess we will have to wait and see. Wonder if his toes will be short or long. He is growing so fast already!His heart is barely visible in this pic, but it is working hard at beating 150 times a minute.  The human body is so intricate and amazing. Officially, It’s a Boy! Rich’s heart skipped a beat when the word “boy” reached his ears. He has dreamed of having a boy to carry on the Dufresne genes.  I think that I was in shock. Happy to have a healthy boy, but also realizing that I wanted a girl a little more that I knew. No matter what, I will love this little one with all my heart. I have prayed and worked hard for so long to bring him into my life.  He is truly a miracle from God.

Baby Dufresne

Baby’s first Ultrasound at 8weeks. The fetus is upside-down. You can see the arm and leg buds. Measuring in at 8.2 mm and the size of a Lima Bean. The squiggles on the the bottom of the image represents the heartbeat. Even at this stage, the little one had brought us so much joy.

Nearly halfway through and I am finally starting to feel pregnant. I can feel the firmness in my abdomen. Soon I will be able to feel the baby move. Rich and I are so excited for our next Ultrasound in which we may be able to know the sex of the baby.  Can’t wait to see the fingers and toes.

Brad Paisley - Little Moments

This is Our Song. When I heard it for the first time, I knew that it fit us perfectly.

Research Study

Rich and I are participating in a Research Study for patient diagnosed with Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome (PCOS) and Infertility.  PCOS affects the ovulation process causing the eggs not to mature and be released from the ovary.  It is often called a “pearled effect” as shown below because the cross-section looks like a string of pearls.  This ultrasound image is similar to the last one I had last month. Tests showed that the Uterus and Fallopian tubes are functioning.  Dr Casson feels very hopeful that this drug study will be successful.

 

The Drug Study is a double-blind study and at no cost to me. It will last 5 Cycles.  I will have blood work and ultrasounds each month to monitor my progress. I will take one of the two meds, which are Clomid (Current treatment) and Letrozole (Currently used to treat Breast Cancer patients). Both Dr Casson and I will not know which med I am taking, but Dr Casson feels confident that he can figure it out by the side effects of the med and it is different for each one.  Don’t worry, the side effects are mild.  These medications are supposed to regulated the Estrogen level resulting in Ovulation (release of the egg from the ovary).  If this is unsuccessful, then we will have to try more invasive alteratives, but I am trying not to get ahead of myself.

Rich and I are trying to stay positive. We know that having children is a righteous desire of our heart and that we need to put our trust in the Lord.  At times, this is easier said than done.  Even if we have to adopt the Lord with bless us.

Frostbite’s Favorite Places

Frostbite decided to hang with me while I update the Blog. She loves to be at my side, and sometimes Rich.  She is clearly a Mom’s girl. She can be like a 2yr old with separation anxiety.  It is even worse after we return from vacationing in Utah.  She loves to be on the desk, in the window, or at my feet.  She can be quite adorable between moments of crankiness.  We lovingly call her “Princess Pea” because she wants to have everything her way or she whines.

 

Curly Hair?

I moved to Vermont in 2004 with short slightly wavy hair. I started growing my hair out 2 years ago. Now my hair is curly unless I blow dry it straight. The last perm I had was back in 1990. So why the curl now. Ha Ha. I do have to say that when we move I will miss the effects of humidity on my hair here in Vermont.

Ready for a Party!

I was excited to get all dressed up for Rich’s 25th High School Reunion. I have been losing weight over the last few months. I put on this dress and some make-up and felt like a million dollars. Recently, a friend suggested that I create a photo journal of my progress since it is sometimes hard to see the changes in myself. I have been getting a great deal of positive feedback from my co-workers.  So here is my first photos since I started. I am down about 20 lbs so far.  It is amazing how such a small amount can make a huge difference.  I love going to the gym now, but find it challenging to find balance throughout this whole process.

 

Daddy's Little Girl

I was trying out Dad's combat boots. He is my hero. I always wanted to be like him.

How Could You Not Love That Face?

I often look at this photo and wonder if I was very angry or just about to burst into tears. Mom said that after 15minutes of trying to make me smile, she told the photographer to just take the picture. I was not a happy camper that day.

GLEE - Season Finale Performance - "Over the Rainbow"

This is one of my favorite songs.

Unplanned Adventures

Rich was working in his shop a week ago while talking with me on speaker phone. Suddenly I heard weird noises and the phone went silent. No big deal, I thought Rich must have dropped the phone. I tried to call back a few times but he did not answer. Then I began to worry slightly. He may have just been cleaning up a spill or something which had happened before, but I did not know. He finally answered the phone and proceeded to tell me that he cut his hand badly with an X-acto knife while cutting plastic. Thank goodness I was driving home only a few minutes away. He was waiting on the front porch with a towel wrapped around his hand. We spent the next 4 hours in the Emergency Room. Rich had cut through the tendon on his left index finger over the first knuckle down to the bone and across the top of his 3rd and 4th fingers. The image is similar to his injury, but his tendon was cut not torn. The ER doctor was unabled to reattach the tendon and just sutured the wound closed. The doctor applied Dermabond (super glue) to the cuts on his middle fingers. He received a big dose of antibiotics and a referral to a hand surgeon.

So now we have to wait and see how it heals. The surgeon recommended splinting the joint for 6 weeks, instead of surgery, to allow the tenden to reattach. The doctor said that he sees this type of injury only a few times a year and that Rich was lucky the cuts were not deeper on his middle fingers or it would have been more severe. He goes back to the surgeon on Tuesday to have the sutures removed and a new splint to be made. Rich can't return to work for at least 6 weeks because of lifting and mobility restrictions to his left hand.

Rich applied for short-term disability which he should be able to get. His manager told him that she wanted to keep him, but can't guarantee his job is safe, because he is not eligible for Medical Leave since he has been employeed for less than 6 months. She stated that she has very been impressed by Rich and will try to everything that she can to keep him. So we hope and pray that all with work out.

My First Piano

I have been yearning for my own piano since I was a little girl.  I dreamed of having a music room with a Baby Grand and playing beautiful music. Finally, my wish was partially fulfill. My co-worker, Muijesara, generously offered to give me her upright since her children no longer play played.  Then to my pleasant surprise, another co-worker, Corrina, offered to transport it 50+ miles to my home.  Now I can play at any moment and not have to find time to practice at the church.  I give great thanks to my wonderful co-workers and friends for this blessing.

Sunday Nap

Frostbite and I love to curl up on the couch after church for a sunday nap. We could lay there for hours. She is our substite baby until the real one comes along.

Camping at Lake Groton

This was our 1st year at Lake Groton, but we had so much fun that we plan to return often.

We stayed at the Stillwater campground.

We had very little grassy area, so both our tents went up over rocky ground. This would not have been that big of a problem had the air matress not had a leak. The matress only stayed inflated for a few hours.
















Jeremy whipped up his tent with no problems. To bad he has little interest in boy scouts. I did most of Rich and my tent by myself also until I needed help with the support pulls. I was wishing I had a dome tent like the on Jeremy borrowed from his friend. That would have been even easier.














I have had this tent for years, but only stayed in it once with Liz at the Shakespearean Festival. She mocked it because it had the wrong connector and the right side stood higher. She said it was made by a poor 6yr girl a the Korean sweat shop. We still laugh about that trip.















This path is only 10 feet away from our site.
















Wouldn't mind living close this place for the rest of my life.















The lake was huge. We could not get a pic of the whole lake. This is only a 3rd of the lake.
















Whipping up some breakfast burritos.






























Breakfast is over. Where did the boys go?















How is it that even when camping I get stuck doing the dishes.


















We had a furry friend that burrowed a hole under the wood pile and came out for food.















Heres a pic of our new car.