As of July 7, 2009, we are the legal parents for baby Mark. Her Honorable Judge Katherine K. Lumsden made it official. I love it that the judge was a woman, and her name was Katherine! I love her even though I have never met her.
Smile:)
Friday, July 10, 2009
Friday, July 3, 2009
New Picture of Markolas
Here is a new pic of Markolas. If you look closely, you will see his little fist on his cheek and a smile on his face.
Absolutely adorable!!!!
Thursday, June 25, 2009
It's a BOY!
Things are going well. We are now in the 21st week of pregnancy. Aside from a little nausea and some nausea medication related side effects, all is well. Baby is growing by leaps and bounds and he is all caught up to where he should be for his gestational age.
We are going to see my sister next week. We are going to attend an ultrasound so we can see the little feller in action.
I wish there was some way we could communicate to Boca our dog about what is happening! He is going to be so excited, and I can just picture them together!
We are naming him Mark Nicholas, or as he is affectionately referred to as "Markolas"
We are indeed very lucky and very blessed!
I do not know if our donor ever checks into the blog, but if you do, thanks so much for making this all possible for us!
We are going to see my sister next week. We are going to attend an ultrasound so we can see the little feller in action.
I wish there was some way we could communicate to Boca our dog about what is happening! He is going to be so excited, and I can just picture them together!
We are naming him Mark Nicholas, or as he is affectionately referred to as "Markolas"
We are indeed very lucky and very blessed!
I do not know if our donor ever checks into the blog, but if you do, thanks so much for making this all possible for us!
Friday, April 17, 2009
Miracles can happen
Especially when you have a sister who is wise and knows her body.
They said stop all medications, she said I do not think so.
They said the pregnancy is not viable, she said we will see about that.
They said there is no hope, she said it is too soon to give up hope.
They were wrong, she was right.
Monday, March 2, 2009
Beta is not doubling :(
Well folks, it has been a long a ride, and I am afraid this is our final stop. It has truly been an amazing experience, but now it is time to grieve.
I am sure I will post more soon, but now it is time to grieve a bit...offline!
HUGS!
Theresa
I am sure I will post more soon, but now it is time to grieve a bit...offline!
HUGS!
Theresa
Wednesday, February 25, 2009
Beta results
Today is 9 days after egg transfer. Our beta is 127. This is a strong number for a singleton pregnancy. It can still be a multiple pregnancy, but we will not know until the ultrasound which will be in 2 weeks.
We are thrilled and so grateful for my sister!
We will keep you posted!
Theresa
We are thrilled and so grateful for my sister!
We will keep you posted!
Theresa
Tuesday, February 24, 2009
something to think about as we wait for the numbers
Abstract
Objective It has been reported that the quantitative serum hCG level 14 days after embryo transfer (ET) correlated with pregnancy outcome as well as a likelihood of a multiple gestation pregnancy. This prospective study was designed to assess the predictive value of a 14-day post-ET hCG level with pregnancy outcome and multiple gestation pregnancies.
Methods Patients undergoing in vitrofertilization (IVF) and ET were monitored by serum quantitative hCG levels 14 days after ET. If positive, serial values of hCG were obtained and transvaginal ultrasound was performed 3 weeks after ET and weekly until fetal cardiac activity was seen. Ongoing pregnancies were defined as greater than 20 weeks.
Results One hundred eleven patients had positive serum quantitative hCG levels 14 days post-ET; 89/111, or 80.2%, had ongoing pregnancies. The spontaneous miscarriage rate was, therefore, 19.8% (22/111).
If the level was less than 300, the ongoing multiple pregnancy rate was 9% (5/57).
If the level was between 300 and 600, the ongoing pregnancy rate was 40% (10/25).
If the hCG level was greater than 600, the multiple pregnancy rate was 100% (7/7).
Conclusions These data support the hypothesis that hCG levels greater than 200 mIU/ml on 14 days post-ET are more likely to have ongoing pregnancies; hCG levels greater than 600 have a high likelihood of a multiple gestation pregnancy.
Objective It has been reported that the quantitative serum hCG level 14 days after embryo transfer (ET) correlated with pregnancy outcome as well as a likelihood of a multiple gestation pregnancy. This prospective study was designed to assess the predictive value of a 14-day post-ET hCG level with pregnancy outcome and multiple gestation pregnancies.
Methods Patients undergoing in vitrofertilization (IVF) and ET were monitored by serum quantitative hCG levels 14 days after ET. If positive, serial values of hCG were obtained and transvaginal ultrasound was performed 3 weeks after ET and weekly until fetal cardiac activity was seen. Ongoing pregnancies were defined as greater than 20 weeks.
Results One hundred eleven patients had positive serum quantitative hCG levels 14 days post-ET; 89/111, or 80.2%, had ongoing pregnancies. The spontaneous miscarriage rate was, therefore, 19.8% (22/111).
If the level was less than 300, the ongoing multiple pregnancy rate was 9% (5/57).
If the level was between 300 and 600, the ongoing pregnancy rate was 40% (10/25).
If the hCG level was greater than 600, the multiple pregnancy rate was 100% (7/7).
Conclusions These data support the hypothesis that hCG levels greater than 200 mIU/ml on 14 days post-ET are more likely to have ongoing pregnancies; hCG levels greater than 600 have a high likelihood of a multiple gestation pregnancy.
Friday, February 20, 2009
We were robbed!!
Can you believe this? We bought a 3 pk of Clear Blue Digital Pregnancy tests and there were only two in the box. I can just see it, some pathetic soul shoplifting a pregnancy test. Having a baby when I can't conceive. You can imagine how ticked off I was....I would have been even more upset, if the test had not been POSITIVE!!
WOOT!! Way to go Sister!
Did I mention how early it is? How many do you think are in there anyway?
Double click pic for a larger view!!
$$ Dollar Store Pregnancy Tests
Well those cheap dollar store pregnancy tests are showing negative. So what if it is way too soon to be testing! We will keep you posted now the good pregnancy tests are in the house!
Tuesday, February 17, 2009
One day after transfer
Today is my last day of bed rest. Even though I have been pampered, I have had way too much time on my hands. This time has convinced me that I am already experiencing pregnancy symptoms. I have also tried to convince my sister by making her poke my boob. lol Of course this poke makes my boob hurt and you know sore boobs are an early symptom of pregnancy...
Good news is that I will be paroled from the couch effective tomorrow morning. I plan on exploring San Francisco with my family for the next couple days. Maybe I can stay busy enough to keep me from peeing on those darn sticks! I'm not promising anything though!!!
Please keep us in your thoughts and prayers!!!
Good news is that I will be paroled from the couch effective tomorrow morning. I plan on exploring San Francisco with my family for the next couple days. Maybe I can stay busy enough to keep me from peeing on those darn sticks! I'm not promising anything though!!!
Please keep us in your thoughts and prayers!!!
Monday, February 16, 2009
3 thawed, 3 survived, 3 transferred
So far so good. The transfer was very smoothly and the three little buns are now in the oven. Sister and I are looking a pictures of blasts that have been thawed and comparing to the picture we have of our babies.
She is behaving herself and resting on the couch.
Husband is making his infamous ice cream pie.
Kevin has the girls out for a day of fun, Boca is resting quietly on the floor.
For now all is peaceful and we wait!
She is behaving herself and resting on the couch.
Husband is making his infamous ice cream pie.
Kevin has the girls out for a day of fun, Boca is resting quietly on the floor.
For now all is peaceful and we wait!
Sunday, February 15, 2009
How do you feel?
Today my sister asked me how I am feeling. Well what could I say. I honestly broke down in tears and said I do not know how I am supposed to feel, there are so many feelings running through me and each second I never know which one will bubble up.
First of all I am nervous and I wonder how many embryos will survive the thaw.
Second I am excited and hopeful things will go well.
Third I am greatly saddened that I am not able to carry the pregnancy. I feel like a failure, the eggs are not mine, the womb is not mine, all I have to offer is my love. Even though in my heart I know this is the most important thing, sometimes it feels sort of lame.
Fourth I am nervous it will not work.
Fifth, I am nervous it will work.
Sixth, I am thankful this will finally be the last attempt, and I can be at peace no matter what the answer ultimately is.
Such a flurry of emotions. Just hope it all works out for the best!
First of all I am nervous and I wonder how many embryos will survive the thaw.
Second I am excited and hopeful things will go well.
Third I am greatly saddened that I am not able to carry the pregnancy. I feel like a failure, the eggs are not mine, the womb is not mine, all I have to offer is my love. Even though in my heart I know this is the most important thing, sometimes it feels sort of lame.
Fourth I am nervous it will not work.
Fifth, I am nervous it will work.
Sixth, I am thankful this will finally be the last attempt, and I can be at peace no matter what the answer ultimately is.
Such a flurry of emotions. Just hope it all works out for the best!
Wednesday, February 11, 2009
And we're off....
My appointment yesterday was successful. They checked my lining and the hormone levels in my blood. They wanted my lining to be at least 8mm and it was 11.3!!!! Yeah!!! I didn't get the results of my bloodwork but was told that it was fine.
I started my shots last night. My husband is a very calm man that I appreciate sooo much. He is also my nurse. He went with me to my appointment yesterday and the nurse drew a bullseye on my rump so he would know where to insert the needle. The needle used to draw the medicine is HUGE!!!!! It about scared me to death!! lol However, once drawn, the needle is replaced with a smaller one that is a little less intimidating. The shot didn't hurt at all. Ron, Makayla and I took turns rubbing and applying heat. Because the progesterone is in oil, the medicine needs to be rubbed in to prevent knotting. I did not have any knots, bruises or pain this morning when I awoke. However, on my way to work this morning, I started feeling some discomfort. It alarmed me for a minute. That is until I discovered it was coming from the wrong side! lol
Most importantly, my transfer is scheduled for next Monday, February 16th. I am so excited!!!!
Please keep your fingers crossed and say a little prayer for us!!!
Dawn
I started my shots last night. My husband is a very calm man that I appreciate sooo much. He is also my nurse. He went with me to my appointment yesterday and the nurse drew a bullseye on my rump so he would know where to insert the needle. The needle used to draw the medicine is HUGE!!!!! It about scared me to death!! lol However, once drawn, the needle is replaced with a smaller one that is a little less intimidating. The shot didn't hurt at all. Ron, Makayla and I took turns rubbing and applying heat. Because the progesterone is in oil, the medicine needs to be rubbed in to prevent knotting. I did not have any knots, bruises or pain this morning when I awoke. However, on my way to work this morning, I started feeling some discomfort. It alarmed me for a minute. That is until I discovered it was coming from the wrong side! lol
Most importantly, my transfer is scheduled for next Monday, February 16th. I am so excited!!!!
Please keep your fingers crossed and say a little prayer for us!!!
Dawn
Sunday, February 8, 2009
Party at our house!
Well not really a party, more like a family reunion.
Who will be at our house this weekend?
Me
Matthew
and Katie of course
Dawn
Destiny
and Makayla
Katie's Dad Kevin
Boca
and Claude
I better watch out or I will lose my reputation for being anti-social!
Btw, despite being sick, I did manage to do a little cleaning and I took down the Christmas tree. I know, I know it is very disappointing, but I was forced to because some of the lights were starting to burn out!
Sister, want to come over and mop the kitchen floor?!
It is getting close, are you excited?
Who will be at our house this weekend?
Me
Matthew
and Katie of course
Dawn
Destiny
and Makayla
Katie's Dad Kevin
Boca
and Claude
I better watch out or I will lose my reputation for being anti-social!
Btw, despite being sick, I did manage to do a little cleaning and I took down the Christmas tree. I know, I know it is very disappointing, but I was forced to because some of the lights were starting to burn out!
Sister, want to come over and mop the kitchen floor?!
It is getting close, are you excited?
Friday, February 6, 2009
Chittlins or Chitterlings???
I have been informed that I spelled chittlins (chitterlings) incorrectly and that if I can't spell them I can't cook them. First off, who said I cook them? Just for the record, I don't like them, cook them or even stand the smell of them. Secondly, who actually says chitterlings? As they say in the south you ain't from around here are ya? (yes I said ain't and I said ya instead of you lol)
Let's see, we will put back three and may get four in return. Do you have four boys names picked out? :)
Ok, we are on our way. I did my pre-pregnancy dental exam - no cavities. I asked for some advice from the dentist regarding morning sickness. She recommended using baking soda (or soder if you are from rural Ohio) and to brush with PreviDent 5000 plus every night. This is to prevent dental issues from the sickness.
I have been on estradiol for seven days now. No big issues resulting from the pills. I have been reading up on the pio shots. They terrify me. There are ladies that report running out of places to give the shot from all the lumps. Good thing I have a big hiney to spread the lumps!!
Tuesday is the ultrasound and bloodwork. Keep your fingers crossed that my lining is at least 8 so the transfer can be scheduled!!!
That's all for now. You'all come back now ya hear! For you Ann, that means please revisit the blog in the near future. lol
Dawn
Let's see, we will put back three and may get four in return. Do you have four boys names picked out? :)
Ok, we are on our way. I did my pre-pregnancy dental exam - no cavities. I asked for some advice from the dentist regarding morning sickness. She recommended using baking soda (or soder if you are from rural Ohio) and to brush with PreviDent 5000 plus every night. This is to prevent dental issues from the sickness.
I have been on estradiol for seven days now. No big issues resulting from the pills. I have been reading up on the pio shots. They terrify me. There are ladies that report running out of places to give the shot from all the lumps. Good thing I have a big hiney to spread the lumps!!
Tuesday is the ultrasound and bloodwork. Keep your fingers crossed that my lining is at least 8 so the transfer can be scheduled!!!
That's all for now. You'all come back now ya hear! For you Ann, that means please revisit the blog in the near future. lol
Dawn
Ann can make these chit things for you!
Hey Sister,
I think one of the chemo nurses Ann, can make those chitlens for you!
She also has your bed right now, so be nice to her!
Theresa
I think one of the chemo nurses Ann, can make those chitlens for you!
She also has your bed right now, so be nice to her!
Theresa
Multiples
Sister!
According to the article I read online, the lady in CA put back 6 embryos and got 8 babies. Maybe since you are only having 3...you will only get 4? I am not making this any better am I?
Nevermind, forget you read this!
According to the article I read online, the lady in CA put back 6 embryos and got 8 babies. Maybe since you are only having 3...you will only get 4? I am not making this any better am I?
Nevermind, forget you read this!
Thursday, February 5, 2009
Is there any doubt now?
In case you were all wondering, I think my sister proved that she is indeed as capable of being clever! One might even call that last post witty or smart assey!
Perhaps it is the Estrogen, heaven knows it does funny stuff to the body!
Anyway, I have been sick AGAIN, I have a bad cold! I sit at my desk coughing and does anyone feeel sorry for me? No they just tell me to keep it down and cover my mouth! Whatever!
Thanks Nakeia for the sympathy!
Geezy!
Perhaps it is the Estrogen, heaven knows it does funny stuff to the body!
Anyway, I have been sick AGAIN, I have a bad cold! I sit at my desk coughing and does anyone feeel sorry for me? No they just tell me to keep it down and cover my mouth! Whatever!
Thanks Nakeia for the sympathy!
Geezy!
Monday, February 2, 2009
I really need to stop reading online......
I just read an article about Nadya Suleman, the woman in California that gave birth to eight children. Nadya's mother said that fewer than eight embryos implanted but they multiplied. Has anyone heard exactly how many were implanted? If we transfer three and they multiplied, we could have six babies. Is the Laubach family ready for six??
So, how's the preparations going for our arrival? Did you buy a new toilet seat this time? Makayla said not to worry too much about the cleaning- she will be glad to help for a small fee. However the running up and down the stairs will cost you a little more this time though.
So you like a little variety when it comes to food? Maybe I should bring my husband and allow him to fix you some chittlins, greens and pork jaw. Sounds tasty doesn't it? lol Sarah, your welcome to sample some too!!
Can't wait to see everyone!!!
So, how's the preparations going for our arrival? Did you buy a new toilet seat this time? Makayla said not to worry too much about the cleaning- she will be glad to help for a small fee. However the running up and down the stairs will cost you a little more this time though.
So you like a little variety when it comes to food? Maybe I should bring my husband and allow him to fix you some chittlins, greens and pork jaw. Sounds tasty doesn't it? lol Sarah, your welcome to sample some too!!
Can't wait to see everyone!!!
Saturday, January 31, 2009
Hello Sister!
Welcome to the blog, according to my calculations....we are the only people who are reading it right now, so there is no pressure :) We are so excited as well. I am right now thinking about all the things I have to do before you arrive. OK, that was depressing, so now I will think of all the fun things we can do once you get here...ahhh that is better.
My nieces and my sister are a little hesitant when comes to trying new foods. We live in the Bay Area with some of the most exciting food choices in the world. One of our favorite restaurants is Salang Pass and Afghan restaurant where you can actually sit on the floor, I always wanted that during my 2 week wait. The dilemma is whether to expose the to these exotic foods and broaden their horizons, or take them to safe choice like McDonald's and Texas Road House?
My nieces and my sister are a little hesitant when comes to trying new foods. We live in the Bay Area with some of the most exciting food choices in the world. One of our favorite restaurants is Salang Pass and Afghan restaurant where you can actually sit on the floor, I always wanted that during my 2 week wait. The dilemma is whether to expose the to these exotic foods and broaden their horizons, or take them to safe choice like McDonald's and Texas Road House?
Got my cycle now starting the cycle!!
I am soooo excited!!! I got my cycle yesterday and now the fun begins!!
I started Estradiol (3x a day) and baby asprin (1x a day) today. My ultrasound/blood work is scheduled for Tuesday the 10th. If my lining is nice and fluffy at the appointment, I will probably transfer sometime during the week of the 16th.
There are so many things that I am excited about. I am given the opportunity to play an important role in my future niece/nephew(s)lives. Just think, I thought I was doing something when I stayed up late videotaping Katie's bath after she was born!! Also, my two daughters and I are going to visit Matthew, Theresa and Katie! Because I live in Georgia, we don't get to see my family nearly as much as we would like.
Keep your fingers crossed and please remember us in your prayers. This is Matthew and Theresa's time and I feel blessed to be a part of it.
Dawn
I started Estradiol (3x a day) and baby asprin (1x a day) today. My ultrasound/blood work is scheduled for Tuesday the 10th. If my lining is nice and fluffy at the appointment, I will probably transfer sometime during the week of the 16th.
There are so many things that I am excited about. I am given the opportunity to play an important role in my future niece/nephew(s)lives. Just think, I thought I was doing something when I stayed up late videotaping Katie's bath after she was born!! Also, my two daughters and I are going to visit Matthew, Theresa and Katie! Because I live in Georgia, we don't get to see my family nearly as much as we would like.
Keep your fingers crossed and please remember us in your prayers. This is Matthew and Theresa's time and I feel blessed to be a part of it.
Dawn
Monday, January 26, 2009
Back by Popular Demand
....errr well maybe not popular demand but the request of my in-laws!
Well we have passed all our tests and we are now waiting to start the cycle. As soon as Dawn gets her cycle, we are a go.
Dawn is now going to join me on the blog, please welcome her, as she shares her experiences.
She thinks I am witty and her posts will be boring. I have news for you all, she is as sarcastic and smart-assey as I am. I think it should be entertaining.
As usual, we are waiting!
Well we have passed all our tests and we are now waiting to start the cycle. As soon as Dawn gets her cycle, we are a go.
Dawn is now going to join me on the blog, please welcome her, as she shares her experiences.
She thinks I am witty and her posts will be boring. I have news for you all, she is as sarcastic and smart-assey as I am. I think it should be entertaining.
As usual, we are waiting!
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