Sunday, July 29, 2007

Finally- more baby photos!

Isn't he the cutest thing you've ever seen?














Saturday, July 28, 2007

Home Sweet Home

Can you believe it? They actually let us take this little miracle home with us. It's truly surreal- we went into the hospital a couple of days ago, and it's all been a blur... and suddenly, we're at home and our lives will never, ever be the same.

I cannot express the joy we're feeling and the love we have for this little guy that we have only really known for 3 days. But then, added to that joy, we came home to find that some of our friends and family have been conspiring to clean out Atty's new room, including moving large pieces of furniture, boxing up large quantities of books and even shampooing the carpet.

Here we were thinking how lucky we were to have a healthy, beautiful boy, but then we realized how much our cup just runs over with blessings.

Thanks so much to those of you who have helped us out in so many ways. We love you all, and hope that we can be as much help to you someday.

Thursday, July 26, 2007

Heeeeeerrrrrreeeee's Atty!

I am very, very pleased to announce that Atticus Britt Rothman Failes made it into the world, safe and sound! He was born yesterday, July 25 at 10:36 PM. He was 7lbs, 6oz. and 19 inches long. Mommy and Baby are doing great (he's sleeping on her chest right now, in fact). Thanks for all of the congrats and calls, and we can't wait to introduce him in person!!

More updates to follow...

Sunday, July 15, 2007

Who delivers baby storks?






Finally, we have a date: If Jodi doesn't go into labor by Friday, July 27, she'll be induced that morning, so mark your calendars : ) And if you know Jodi (and especially if you know her mom), you know that being able to plan ahead is very important.

Getting that date, however, has been a bit of a roller coaster. About 2 and a half weeks ago, we found out that Atticus was in a breech position (feet-down). At 35 weeks, we were told, there was a very slim chance that he would have room to turn himself around, so... we needed to schedule a cesarian section.

This was not part of our plan. We had read books and seen videos that all agreed that a c-section was not the ideal way to begin a child's life. The natural birth process is very important in getting an infant ready for life on the outside. But... we knew that if he was going to be obstinate, it was the only way to ensure a safe delivery. So we came to terms with it, and even began to look on the bright side: at least Jodi won't have to go through the pain of labor, at least it would be done quickly, and most of all-- we'd have a date.

This week, we went to our regular doctors appointment, and when we walked in, one of the admins gave us a very exciting piece of paper-- we had a date scheduled for the cesarian! But before that fact even sunk in, we were in the exam room with the doctor. She was checking to see if Jodi's cervix is dilated, and she tells us that either this baby has a really hard butt, or... he's turned around.

So we go down the hall to the ultrasound room to confirm the doctor's suspicions, and sure enough-- the little booger had wiggled his little cabeza around into position. So we canceled the cesarian (and gave up our precious date) in favor of an again-possible traditional birth.

Because of Jodi's history of hypertension, the doctors want to minimize the risk of pre-eclampsia. To do that, they suggested we schedule an induction during Jodi's 39th week (hence 7/27). In the meantime, Jodi's on bed rest-- which she is eternally greatful for-- and we're doing what we can to get ready for B-day: installing a car seat, washing and folding clothes and sleeping through the night (at least I am).

We really can't wait because, well, pregnancy sucks. I know having a baby will be no picnic either, but at least then we'll have the upside of actually getting to see, hold and interact with our bundle of joy! Wish us luck!