Expect the Unexpected

The Lord is slowly trying to teach me to be more faithful, spontaneous, and flexible with my life.  If you know me, I plan things well in advance and like to have everything planned out ahead of time... not a lot of surprises.

I started teaching dance again after a few weeks off.  I felt fine, but when I tried sleeping that night then got up that morning, I was insanely sore and achy all over.  I just thought I must be really out of shape after the holidays.  I took the day off work, hoping things would get better.  I continued to have horrible lower back pain and seizure-like episodes (one of which lasted 45 minutes).  So I missed another day of work.  After talking to my doctor and a few others, it was highly suggested I go to the ER to get checked out.  I thought, "ER... is that really necessary?  I'm just being a wuss and need to suck it up and put on a smile!"  After much debate, we finally decided to make our way to the hospital Thursday evening and ditch our first birth class, of which Chase was grateful.

They admitted me into the hospital, put me in a room and asked me to change into my hospital gown.  Chase and I both said, "What is all the fuss? "  I gave a urine sample then had monitors strapped to my belly.  Over four hours later, we received the following news:  1) The pain I was feeling the last few days were contractions, 2) I had a bladder infection, 3) I was completely thinned out and dilated 2cm and 4) a prelabor test came back positive (basically confirming I could deliver anytime).  We were both scared and a mess of emotion.  How did my care-free pregnancy change so fast?  It was a lot to take-in.  After four shots and some other medications, they released me and we were driving home... in shock.  We were sure glad we went in.

It was an emotional, sleepless night for me.  I had moments of weeping, but then great moments of comfort.  As the news spread to our family and close friends, we were comforted and supported throughout the day.  Our attitudes slowing became uplifted and optimistic.  We went back to the hospital that night for a follow-up appointment and to receive a second steroid shot (to stimulate lung development).  My contractions had basically gone away with the medicine they gave me.  The baby looked really good. Overall, things looked great.  They discharged me and put me on bed rest for a week.  I see my doctor Monday to have her look at things, but most likely I'll be on bed rest until he decides to come.  The overall goal is to keep him cooking for as long as we can!

And my dear, sweet Chase... I'm crying with gratitude for the wonderful man he is in my life.  He has been with me every moment I've needed him.  He's always had more faith than me, and I constantly rely on his strength.  I couldn't have asked for a better partner and rock to get through this with.  If he can make me laugh about the situation and give me great comfort (and lots of favors), he can get me through anything.  Love him.

Expect the unexpected... I guess that automatically comes with kids and LIFE.  I'm looking at the positive and I KNOW things are going to work out just fine.  He's just anxious to get here and start the party!

Thank you for the phone calls, treats, prayers, and support.  We truly are blessed!

Keep you posted...