Merry Christmas!

And the angel said to them, “Fear not, for behold, I bring you good news of great joy that will be for all the people. For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Savior, who is Christ the Lord. And this will be a sign for you: you will find a baby wrapped in swaddling cloths and lying in a manger.” And suddenly there was with the angel a multitude of the heavenly host praising God and saying, “Glory to God in the highest,and on earth peace among those with whom he is pleased!”

(Luke 2: 10-14 ESV)

Merry Christmas! We have had a wonderful Christmas. It has been very different this year because we missed some key members of our family very much, but it was very special at the same time because it was sort of Herbie's first (well, half-first) Christmas! Yesterday, Patrick and I had our traditional Christmas Eve lunch together - just the two of us. We started doing it a few years ago because we are ALWAYS doing some last minute shopping on Christmas Eve, and its just some time to break away from all of that and spend time together. After that, I helped my mom deliver some Christmas presents (some goodies she had made). I don't know where she's getting all of her energy from, but it sure is refreshing, especially after all she's been through this year. We went to the Christmas Eve service at Hope Church, and then went to my uncle Ross's house for dinner. It was special because my mom came with us and helped Ross cook. The meal was fantastic, and the company even better. We ended the night singing Christmas carols, with Patrick and my cousin Hill playing guitar.

In the past, Christmas Eve for us (my sisters and I) has always been a big deal. My dad and Harriett used to do a huge dinner with lots of family and friends (sort of like an open house). There was lots of singing around the piano (Angels We Have Heard on High was sung at least 3 times with my dad yelling, I mean singing - SLIGHTLY off key - the Gloria part extra-dramatically). We usually dressed up, went to the candlelight service at Christ Covenant (and sometimes the 11:00 communion service, too), and then came back to a meal that rivaled Joan's Thanksgiving spread. Anyway, this year was much more low key and casual, but still was a wonderful time spent with some of our family. And the food was still just as good thanks to Ross, Denise and my mom (and Joan still helped, too)!

This morning, Patrick and I did our little family gift exchange. I got a beautiful pearl necklace and bracelet, as well as a nice set of pajamas from Patrick, and I got him a shirt from a new company started by his college roommate - Collard Greens, a new coffee/espresso machine, and some other small things. We also opened gifts from Patrick's mom and grandmother, which included some gift certificates to Starbucks and J.Crew in just the right size (ha!). Then, we went to my mom's house for cinnamon rolls (a Christmas morning tradition she's done for us ever since I can remember) and exchanging gifts with her and my sisters. This is my mom's tree, which had a Carolina santa hat as the topper this year - very appropriate since she's such a huge Carolina fan. I couldn't resist posting a picture of it. We were excited to give our gifts to the family. Patrick was extra proud of this wrapping job on a gift for Joan - if only the picture could show you the large amount of tape that is holding that thing together!
We are thankful for all of the gifts we received (especially the spa gift certificate from Caroline), but one of my favorites was Herbie's First Coozie! I've been collecting coozies (or huggies, as some people call them - you know, the things that keep the cans cold) since college. Now, thanks to Joan, Herbie has her own bottle coozie (in Carolina blue appropriately - with "Magee" in pink, even more appropriately) to add to the collection! Of course, the first thing Patrick did was see if it also fit on a beer bottle (it does), but it is clearly made for a baby's bottle. It is too cute!
I also need to mention that one of my other Christmas gifts was having the dogs bathed at the vet. Its a treat we don't often do, but its always so nice to have clean and non-smelly 80 pound dogs. Not only does a day at the vet wear the dogs out so they sleep well, but we also don't protest as much when they "accidentally" get on the bed (which we NEVER usually allow them to do). This was sort of a present for them, as well as me!!


This afternoon, we tried to rest, but Patrick spent most of it trying to hook up his new espresso machine (which is finally set up and ready to go)! Then, we headed back over to my mom's for dinner where we had our traditional Christmas dinner of Rib Roast (the HUGEST piece of meat I've ever seen), mashed potatoes, Joan's yummy yorkshire pudding, green beans and Kentucky Derby Pie for dessert. Needless to say, we have been well-fed over the past two days. Tomorrow is day three of the Wilson family Christmas traditions: the Day-After-Christmas shopping. My sisters, mom, and I have done this since I can remember. We get up early, brave the crowds, and rush out to spend our Christmas money before it can even be deposited in the bank. Its a wonderful tradition that makes Christmas stretch out a little big longer!

Also, please pray for Patrick's mom tomorrow. She fell and broke her shoulder earlier this week, and she's having surgery tomorrow to put in a plate. She'll be out of commission for several weeks, but hopefully, she'll heal quickly and not be in too much pain! We love you Mama Magee!

Finally, check out this story about an angel in the Pediatric Intensive Care Unit at Presbyterian Hospital (the hospital where we will be delivering our baby). Its an amazing story of one family's faith and how God reveals himself to us - sometimes literally - in the midst of our trials.

Tis the Season

Well, its four days until Christmas and we have FINALLY finished our Christmas cards (I won't even comment on when we expect to complete our Christmas shopping). Our last few will be dropped off at the post office tomorrow. Whew - just in the nick of time (no pun intended . . . well, maybe a little one . . . .). We were really excited about the design of our cards this year - until we got them in the mail. The photo was cute on the computer, but when it arrived printed on the cards, we both could not stop laughing at how much it looked like we were standing in front of a fake background. It seriously looked like we were cut outs. But its a real picture - promise - one that we took at Hilton Head this summer.

In addition to the family cards, Patrick also had over 300 business Christmas cards to get out. Because of the refinance boom, he has been working morning, noon, and night (even yesterday and this afternoon). He describes this time as trying to drink from a firehose. It took both of us working on the cards this afternoon in order to get it finished. Thank goodness I remembered some tricks from mass mailings working on campaigns - that definitely helped save us some time. Tomorrow after my doctor's appointment, we're headed to the post office to get the stamps, seal 'em up (using a glue stick - another campaign trick), and drop them in the mail. Here is a glance of what his work Christmas card looks like:
Also, this weekend, we had some Christmas parties to attend. We had a great time. On Friday night, we were at a friend's party at Loft 1523, which is the same place where we had my 30th Birthday party. The balcony has a great view of uptown, and I was so disappointed that we didn't get a picture of Patrick and me with that view in the background at my birthday party. So we made SURE this time to get one. It was SUPER windy, but I was determined. We had a great time celebrating with our friends!


Tonight, we are headed to my friend Allison's house to watch the Panthers' game with her and her husband. Its been a long, but fun weekend. If only we didn't have to work tomorrow . . . .

What to Expect When You're Expecting a Herbie

The ultrasound and specialist appointment went well today. Everything is stable, including the fluid amount, and Herbie appears to be functioning well. The highlight of the day, however, was meeting with one of the neonatologists (Dr. Howell) and touring the NICU. Dr. Howell met with us for over an hour and answered our billions of questions. To summarize, there most likely will be a "high risk" team from the NICU in the delivery room in addition to the normal "baby nurses" that are on hand. The doctors will evaluate Herbie immediately, but most likely will not be rushing off to perform tests or anything like that. In fact, the theme of the meeting today was that Herbie will be observed a lot at first and that tests will be performed in a calculated manner. The doctors will be looking for things to determine whether she is functioning normally. If all is well, the first steps will most likely be observation in the NICU. The doctor stressed that the number one concern is having Herbie adjust to her life outside the womb, and that too many tests all at once could disrupt that process. We most likely will not have answers the first day, and possibly not even until several days after she is born. In fact, it may be weeks or even never before a cause for the fluid is determined. So, patience was certainly the underlying lesson from the doctor.

It was really good for us to hear that, especially as we get more and more antsy as the due date approaches. At least now, we know what to expect - and what not to expect - from the doctors and the testing. Granted, it was tough to hear that after ALL THIS, we still may not have a diagnosis immediately, or within days, or even within weeks of her birth. But at least we know that and won't be expecting instant answers as soon as she's born.

The other thing that was put more in perspective today was how rare Herbie's condition is. The neonatologists said that ascites (fluid in the abdomen) appears in only a handful of cases each year at this hospital. That is pretty scary. But they have handled it before, and the doctor we met with was very familiar with our situation, seemed extremely knowledgeable about neonatal ascites, and even explained a few of the more common causes. Those two most common causes (which I have no idea what the names are, but they are basically lymphatic system issues - one that has to do with the liver and one that has to do with the stomach) are treatable, and the team of pediatric surgeons at Presbyterian have "fixed" the problem numerous times. We feel very confident about our doctors at this point, but nonetheless, Dr. Howell stressed that if its something that is outside the abilities of the doctors at Presby, they have no reservation in referring cases to other doctors in other hospitals.

After probing significantly more with the doctor to find out what's happened in the past in these cases, we faced some pretty harsh realities. We are grateful to be more informed about what lies ahead, but we were really humbled by the meeting today. We have no option at this point but to truly trust in God that His will be done. Of course, we pray for healing, or at least for a treatable diagnosis, but its all in His hands. Patrick found a good Bible verse for us to focus on tonight, which is actually a verse that my dad taught to my neice Hannah as soon as she could talk:

"Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding;

in all your ways acknowldge him, and he will make your paths straight." Proverbs 3:5

Epiphany - Mark Your Calendars!

Herbie got another good report at the doctor's office on Friday, which was a great start to the weekend. The neonatal stress test (NST) went well. We also talked about the delivery plan for Herbie. We found out Herbie will be born via a c-section on (drum roll) Tuesday, January 6. Dr. Bland (my regular OB) confirmed this date with the specialist and has scheduled the delivery with the hospital. I will be 38 weeks pregnant on that day, and the doctors think that is the earliest they want to schedule to deliver the baby so that they can avoid the possibility of having to deal with prematurity issues in addition to the fluid, but also early enough to get her out and in the neonatologists' care to determine the cause of and hopefully fix the fluid in the abdomen. In addition to being Herbie's birthday, January 6 is a special day - its Epiphany, which (as Wikipedia explains) is a Christian feast day that celebrates the "shining forth" or revelation of God in human form in the person of Jesus Christ.

Obviously, we are very excited to have a birthday for our little girl, but there are other emotions I've gone though, too. One, I would be lying if I didn't say I was somewhat disappointed that I won't be able to have a "normal" delivery. We have known for a while that this was probably not the best option for the baby, and I am all for doing whatever is best for little Herbie. But in some sick way, I wanted to see what all the fuss about labor pains was, and I will have to miss out on that (although I've heard the recovery from a c-section is really tough, so its not like I'm getting out easy). Plus, I have NEVER had any sort of surgery whatsoever (unless you count having stitches once or twice when I was little), so I'm somewhat apprehensive about the whole "going under the knife" thing. Second, I sort of had mixed emotions once I found out the actual date she'll be born. Its hard to explain, but it was like a mix of excitement to finally meet and see her, relief that there is an end in sight, anxiousness of what we face with the diagnosis, nervousness about all that is going to happen that day and the days following, and a flood of other emotions. But God has worked on us this weekend, and we are really just putting this all in his Hands. My mom reminded me of this on Friday night when I was over there with her. We have to trust in Him, and the more we do, the more we feel at peace with what is going on. Its remarkable, really.

The rest of the weekend was relaxing. Last night, Patrick had another Simpler Times gig. The band played at the birthday party for one of the band members. It was really fun, but we didn't get a lot of pictures and no video (still trying to figure out how to upload that anyway). The guys set up on the upstairs hallway and played to the audience, who was downstairs in the great room. Patrick is the guy on the far right in the baseball hat. The picture is not the best, but Patrick and I spent some time this weekend looking at new cameras, so HOPEFULLY these pictures we post are going to be better one of these days!


Tomorrow, we meet with the specialist again for an ultrasound, and we're also meeting with one of the neonatologists (NICU doctors) to find out a little bit more of what we can expect upon delivery. We will update with that info tomorrow night!

Herbie and the Panthers

Monday was a hectic day! Patrick and I both worked, and then I had a doctor's appointment with the specialist that afternoon. Patrick was so busy at work and had an appointment with some clients, so he was unable to go to the doctor's appointment (this is the FIRST of all of them that he has missed), but Joan GLADLY filled in for him. She was mostly just excited to see Herbie "live" on the ultrasound screen. She wasn't disappointed because she got to see all kinds of things - including the "practice breathing" and heart pumping away. One of the cuter things was when the baby was grabbing her foot - you could clearly see the hand holding the little foot. Joan was excited about that one and even got a souvenir picture of it to take home.

As for the doctor's report, everything is still stable. It was a different specialist than we have normally seen, but this doctor's evaluation was pretty much identical to the others. Nothing new, except he thought that I may be able to deliver "naturally" instead of a c-section. We'll see about that as things get closer. Also, Herbie is still measuring big. I'm 34 weeks, but she's measuring on average at about 36/37 weeks (they look at her leg bones, her skull, and arm - I think . . . and I'm sure some other things, too). That doesn't count the abdomen because its bigger than normal due to the fluid. Other than that, the appointment was pretty much uneventful. The most memorable part was hearing Joan's reactions to everything - the heartbeat, the questions about what body part was what, and the overall excitement to actually see the baby.

That night, Patrick and I went to the Panthers' game against Tampa Bay. It was a big deal because the winner would take control of the NFC South, so the crowd was REALLY into it! Other than it being VERY cold, it was one of the most fun football games we've seen. We split season tickets this year with Joan, and the seats are right next to my aunt and uncle, so that makes it even more fun. Dale is Melvyn's brother, and I could not resist posting this picture of him in Lyn's hat and scarf. (Lyn was horrified and is trying to hide under her coat at the bottom right of the picture - Dale is staring at her).

The game was close right up until the end, but luckily the Panthers played great and won the game. Our seats were right near the end zone where the Panthers were trying to score at the end of the game, so had an awesome view of the victory.

All in all, it was a good but very busy day. Tonight we were FINALLY able to decorate our Christmas tree (that we have had since last Wednesday), and hopefully, we'll be able to get a good night's sleep to make up for our hectic weekend and Monday.

"Simpler Times"

Patrick's Wednesday Night bluegrass group had its first "gig" tonight! The official name of the band is "Simpler Times," and they did a great job at the Dickens Mitchener Oyster Roast and Christmas Party (Dickens Mitchener is a real estate firm here in Charlotte - one of the guys in the band is a realtor with them). It was REALLY COLD outside where they played, but a lot of fun -- and the "crowd" seemed to love it. They even made some requests! Our camera isn't anything special, so the sound quality isn't great, but I was able to get a few good pictures and also used it to record two of the songs they played. One is "I'll Fly Away," which shows off their bluegrass talent, and the other is "Tampico Trauma" by Jimmy Buffett (Patrick's favorite, and he sings lead in it). We are going to try to figure out how to upload the videos later, but wanted to post some of the pictures. We had big fun!

Good Report to Kick Off the Weekend!

We had another smooth doctor's visit Friday. Herbie passed the stress test monitoring with flying colors. Her heart rate was strong and normal and also accelerated when she moved, which is what they were looking for. This appointment was with my regular doctor, and he answered several of our questions. The key points are that: (1) we still don't know when she will be born (still a wait and see thing); (2) I will not go any further than 39 weeks, which is considered full term (full term is actually 37 weeks but they like you to normally do 40 weeks - that's the day they mark the due date); (3) she will definitely be delivered c-section so as to minimize stress on baby; (4) the NICU doctor (neonatologist) will be in the delivery room so that he can immediately take a look and start working to identify and fix the fluid problem; and (5) God is still in charge.

I say that last thing because even our doctor reminded us that the Lord doesn't give us more than we can handle. How true! The verse is 1 Corinthians 10:13, part of which says, "God is faithful, and he will not let you be tempted beyond your ability, but with the temptation he will also provide the way of escape, that you may be able to endure it."

We have an "insane lifestyle" weekend planned. Had dinner with friends last night. Errands to run today and spending time with mama helping her around the house. Tonight Patrick has his first band "gig" at a company Christmas party, and that will certainly warrant its own post with pictures!! Church tomorrow and then a family tradition of making Christmas cookies and decorating the tree - my mom did this with us since I can remember, which is at least 5 years old. Anyway, just wanted to post the good news from the doctor's visit! The Lord really does answer prayer!

Monday Blessings

We got a good report at the specialist today and some cool "4D" pictures. Its 4D because the ultrasound takes the waves and then somehow the computer can translate those to "create" the fourth dimension and show an idea of what the baby looks like in 3D. I don't understand it all, but the picture here is one of the ones in "4D." Its not super clear, but to the left is the face and her arm is across her face. Her face is not actually deformed like that -- that's the result of the imaging, the placenta and amniotic fluid, and the computer-generated 4th dimension.

As for Herbie, she is doing fine. Everything is functioning well, and the specialist thinks that the fluid is stable, but maybe even a little less than a week ago! He couldn't say for certain, but said that's what it looks like -- there did not appear to be any additional fluid, so that's the important thing. The monitoring will continue, but it was nothing but good news today. We are really grateful for this wonderful news and answered prayer that she gets to stay put for a while longer!

We have received many of your messages about Melvyn, and we are so appreciative of the support yall have given us over these past couple of days. His death came so unexpectedly, which I think makes it extra difficult. But one thing is for sure - He knew we loved him, and we knew he loved us. I've been compiling some special memories of Melvyn - Melvynisms if you will - and I'll post those soon. Thanks for your prayers for the baby and our family. We need them and appreciate them more than you know!

Love and Loss

Melvyn Michael Fox Mr. Fox, age 67 of Charlotte and formerly of Gastonia, died Friday, November 28, 2008 at Presbyterian Hospital, Matthews. He was born in Gastonia and was the son of the late Julius and Vera Simon Fox.

He was a graduate of the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill with a BA degree in Political Science and attended the University of North Carolina School of Law. He was a former member of Temple Emanuel of Gastonia, Gastonia Jaycees, Gaston Country Club, member of American Contract Bridge League, where in 1982 he became a Life Member in Bridge. He was formerly associated with Gurney Industries, Gastonia and Winton Diamonds, Charlotte.

He is survived by his wife: Patricia Rixon Fox, 1 son: Andrew Fox and wife Sasha of Manhattan, New York, 1 daughter: Nicole Fox-Lam and husband Scott of Seattle, Washington, 3 step-daughters: Patricia Magee and husband Patrick, Joan Wilson, Caroline Wilson all of Charlotte, 1 brother: Dale Fox and wife Lyn of Gastonia, 3 grandchildren: Jack Fox, Sam Fox of Manhattan, New York, Mason Lam of Seattle, Washington.

Graveside services will be Sunday, 4:00 P. M. at the Jewish Section of Gaston Memorial Park, Gastonia with Dr. Charles Brown officiating.

The family will receive friends at the Graveside after the service.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to:
American Diabetes Association, P.O. Box 11454, Alexandria, Va. 22312.

E-Mail condolences to: carothersfh@aol.com; ATTN: Fox Family or you may sign a guest book at: www.mem.com. Carothers Funeral Home, Gastonia is serving the Fox Family.

Hurry Up and Wait.

"Faith does not operate in the realm of the possible. There is no glory for God in that which is humanly possible. Faith begins where man's power ends."

- George Muller

This quote was part of the sermon on Sunday at church. Patrick and I were really struck by its meaning and felt like God was using our pastor to speak to us, particularly as we face uncertainty in the coming weeks. We have received pretty much all of the test results, and they're all negative. The good news is that Herbie's fluid is not caused by something the doctors thought might require her immediate delivery and would involve some complicated treatment. The bad news is we don't know exactly what's causing the fluid. The doctors continue to think its a lymphatic draining issue that can be fixed once she's born. For now, we just wait . . . and monitor . . . and pray . . . that she continues to stay strong and function well in her little environment. I'll be monitored twice a week by the doctors (once at week at maternal/fetal specialist and once a week at my regular ob/gyn), and once they notice she's not doing as well, we will need to decide whether its time to deliver. There is no way to predict when this time will come, and its pretty scary knowing that what we are waiting for is for Herbie to become LESS healthy or for it to become more difficult for her to function with the fluid in her stomach. For now, her heart, lungs and brain are all functioning very well, and each little kick in my side is a reminder of God's love for us.

So, basically, we are at the point where man's power ends. We don't have a certain diagnosis, and the "treatment" for now is in God's hands. He knows when its time for Herbie to come out, and each day is a blessing as it provides more time for our baby to develop. During this interim time, we pray that our faith does not waiver and that we continue to trust in the Lord that all things will work together for his glory. We are so grateful for all the prayers for Herbie's continued growth physically and our continued growth spiritually - keep them up! We also appreciate the continued encouragement you provide by sending us Bible verses. We have a lot to be thankful for this Thanksgiving, including our friends, family, and faith in the Lord. Handling this without Him would be impossible.

Do Not Fear

These pictures are not very clear but they are some ultrasound pictures from yesterday -- its Herbie's profile! The head is on the right and the stomach is to the left. She's holding her little hand up in a fist, and that's the blob in between her head and stomach. Patrick and the ultrasound tech thinks she has my nose! We also saw her wink in the ultrasound on Thursday. It was precious. Anyway, this shows you sort of what the concern is. The stomach looks sort of like a bubble -- the white part inside are the organs and the black stuff is the fluid. It is hard for us to look at these pictures and not be heartbroken, but we have felt her moving around lots this morning and know that God is close to her and us.

One of Joan's favorite songs at church is the song "Do Not Fear." Its based on Isaiah 43 and has been in my mind since last night -- you know, one of those songs that you just wake up and its already in your head! Its a perfect reminder for us as we start this long weekend.

Isaiah 43: 1-3

"But now thus says the Lord, he who created you, O Jacob, he who formed you, O Isreal:

Fear not, for I have redeemed you; I have called you by name, you are mine.

When you pass through the waters, I will be with you; and through the rivers, they shall not overwhelm you;

when you walk through fire you shall not be burned, and the flame shall not consume you.

For I am the Lord your God, the Holy One of Israel, your Savior."

Patience is a virtue . . . .

"Rejoice in hope, be patient in tribulation, be constant in prayer."

Romans 12:12.

We didn't get as many answers from the specialist today as we were hoping to receive. Results for the big comprehensive test that we did yesterday won't be available until Monday. The best news is that the baby is doing wonderful. She's growing, and her lung, brain, and heart functions are great. The fluid is still there, but not noticeably larger. She is measuring about 6 lbs, but the doctor thinks in actuality, she's probably 4 lbs. without the fluid (and that doesn't necessarily mean the fluid weighs 2 lbs -- its all based on measurements). There were no immediate plans to deliver the baby, which is also an answer to prayer because we want her to continue to develop.

As for the test results that were available today, her liver enzymes are normal and the chromosome test from the amnio came back negative for the major things like Down's syndrome, Turner's syndrome, Trisonomy 18/13, etc. She has a low protein count or something like that, which could be caused by numerous things. We didn't get clear guidance on this. The doctor is looking more into it because it could be caused by liver or kidney disease, but the kidneys look good and the liver enzymes were normal. We hope to get more info on the liver in Monday's test results, as well as whether there is an infection. The specialist has speculated that he is leaning towards thinking this is a lymphatic drainage issue that can be treated upon delivery. He's hoping that if that is the case, we can keep the baby in for several more weeks with some close monitoring. Monday's test results may provide more guidance on this possible diagnosis.

To be quite honest, we were a little frustrated this afternoon to not receive all the results we had hoped for. I was probably more disappointed and scared than Patrick. He has really been strong in this, not only in his faith, but also in keeping us positive (as I'm typing this, he is rocking out with the guitar playing Jimmy Buffett -- but the baby seems to like it, lots of kicks when he plays the guitar!). We have constantly been praying that God would prepare us for whatever news we were given and give us strength to handle the challenges presented. We were hoping to at least leave the doctor's office with some answers, and while some things have been eliminated as possible causes, we still don't know what is causing all the fluid in the baby's stomach. It was easy to trust in the Lord when we thought we were going to get quick answers. But that's not His plan. We are so grateful for a strong baby and so thankful for the answers we did get today. But we are learning to be patient in this situation as we wait on others and on the Lord. Its scary to know that we may not have all the answers again on Monday, and we may not know until this precious child is delivered. Patrick and I and SOOOO many others have prayed for this baby, and we have no doubt that the Lord has a plan for her. We continue to feel God's love and pray that we don't stop trusting in Him in this tough situation.

God's Love for Us and Herbie

The past 24 hours or so have been a blur for us, but one thing is for sure: God is in control. Yesterday, Patrick and I went in for a routine baby appointment that turned into a nightmare, then a blessing, then a total demonstration of God's love for us and our precious baby. We were not scheduled for an ultrasound yesterday - just a routine 2 week checkup, but I had some minor concerns (less movement in baby - but still some, and I was measuring larger than normal, which means baby was bigger than average). Basically, Patrick talked the doctor into doing one "just to make sure everything was ok." It was providential that Patrick asked for that -- just another example of God's control in this situation.

The ultrasound revealed fluid around the baby's abdomen, and the doctors and specialists could not immediately determine the cause, but thought she was going into heart failure and that an infection seemed most likely initially. In fact, they thought an immediate delivery of the baby (even though she's only 31 weeks along) might be the best thing to save her. In light of this scary news, Patrick and I took some time alone to pray. We both felt this sense of unexplainable peace. We knew that this problem was bigger than either of us, but more importantly, it was being handled by something much bigger than us -- God.

The specialists have performed several tests - an amniocentesis to test amniotic fluid, a cordiocentesis to test blood from the vein in the umbilical cord, and several blood tests. We've also had lots of monitoring to follow the baby's heartbeat, which has been inside the normal range at all times and is certainly an answer to prayer. I've also received two steriod shots to help develop the baby's lungs in the event we have to deliver her early. Basically, I've had lots of needles of all sizes poked in and around the baby, but all the pain is worth it if we can determine why the fluid is there and make sure the baby is as healthy as possible under the circumstances. These tests will determine if the fluid is caused by a chromosonal/birth defect problem, a liver function problem, an infection (and possibly determine exactly what type of infection), or none of the above. We already have the results that its not anemia, which the blood tests showed. Best case scenario is that its not a chromosone, infection, or liver problem -- those will most likely require delivery sooner rather than later. If there is not an urgent reason to deliver, they will monitor me and the baby more closely, and then, once they doctors determine that it will be best to treat the baby outside of me, then they will proceed to delivery. The tests normally have a two week turnaround time, but our doctor has really pushed for a 24 hour turnaround, so that we can get results before the weekend.

There are so many Bible verses that have come to our minds over the past day or so. We've been reminding ourselves to "Trust in the Lord and lean not on your own understanding" (Prov. 3:5). This morning, I read a great verse on a friend's blog: "Now to Him who is able to do immeasurably more that we could ask or imagine, according to his power that is at work within us, to him be glory in Christ Jesus for ever and ever!" (Eph. 3:20-21). Their baby was born at 26 weeks, spent alot of time in the Presby NICU, and just celebrated his first birthday. What an example of God's mercy and love! (UPDATE - Friday morning I found out that my friend's brother-in-law is the specialist that has been performing all our tests. Its truly unbelievable how much God has a hand in all of this!!). Tonight, I received an email from my Uncle Steve with a Bible verse that has been so touching this evening as we await the test results: "Thou art my servant; I have chosen thee, and not cast thee away. Fear thou not, for I am with thee: be not dismayed, for I am thy God. I will strengthen thee; yea I will help thee; yea I will uphold thee with the right hand of My righteousness." (Isiaiah 41: 9-10). Steve said that he and my dad used to read that to eachother in the King James Version of the Bible (as I quoted here) whenever times were "low." That is so meaningful because I know my dad dealt with some very, very low times during his struggle with cancer, yet he persisted in his trust in the Lord. We, too, are trying to follow that example and truly feel like the Lord is in charge of not only our lives and the baby's life, but also the doctor's lives. God and his grace are the only ways to explain the peace we have felt over the past day or so. We can't help but wonder if this is just a little bit how Daddy felt when he was diagnosed with cancer -- like Jesus was in the room with him.

We have been blessed by so many people offering up prayers for us, the baby, the doctors, the situation - everything. We don't know what tomorrow's results hold for us, and we don't know how long we'll go before we have to decide when to deliver the baby. The consensus among the doctors is that she will be delivered early, but we hope to keep her inside as long as possible since that is the best place for her to continue to develop. But God has a plan, and we are certain of that. And He is with us.

Chicamama's Family Weekend

My neice Hannah came to visit this weekend. We haven't seen her in forever. Ever since she was little, she has called me Chicamama ("chee-ka-mama"). We have no idea why. Anyway, it was awesome to see her and have her in town. It made for a fanstastic family weekend. We did some shopping, ate lots of great food (including a traditional family trip to Providence Road Sundries and, of course, a delicious meal cooked by Joan), went to church (Daddy/Papa would've been proud), and just had a good time "visiting" as my grandmother used to call it.

Another thing we did was attend (drum roll) ANOTHER baby shower (seriously, I can't believe people like us this much). This one was extra special because my mom was able to attend (she was not feeling well for the couples' shower).

My stepmother Harriett was also planning to come, but due to her recovery from a recent fall down the stairs, her doctor told her she couldn't travel that far. We really missed her (and Kaki and Maggie, too), but I am glad they sent Hannah (and a big basket full of things for the baby)!
One of my best friends from college Meagan and one of my most favorite people in the world Judy (who happens to be Joan and Caroline's boss) hosted the shower. I am so lucky to have such special people in my life!
Everyone gave us some GREAT stuff to make life with baby a little easier. One of the books I have been wanting to read is Babywise. It is supposed to be an excellent book on setting your baby up on a schedule and (hopefully) getting her to sleep through the night quickly (its also based on Christian principles). I actually received it as a shower gift from one of my best friends from high school Allison (gotta love facebook for putting us back in touch), who is coincidentally a post-natal nurse that I have recently been harrassing with my billion questions. I have to admit, however, that one of my favorite things at the shower was not a gift, but was actually a note on one of the cards.
The card on the outside of the gift said, "Herbie," and it was written in a child's handwritting. My aunt Denise spilled the beans and said it was actually from my cousins Hill and Anne, and Hill had written the note.
On the inside of the card, it said, "We can't wait to meet you. Love, Hill and Anne." How cute is that??? Don't get me wrong, the gift was great, too (anything handmade by Denise is always awesome), but I absolutely loved the card. Another sweet homemade gift was from my sister Caroline, who wrote a very clever "contract" giving Patrick and I free babysitting for fifty-two date nights. It was one of the most creative things ever, and you can TOTALLY tell that Caroline has worked in a law practice and the insurance industry because there were TONS of legal terms. It was really cute. So cute, in fact, that we are going to frame it. (The haircut, as you can see in the pictures, was part of Joan's present -- she LOVES her hairdresser and convinced her to work me in on Friday night after her appointment.)
We missed those that couldn't make the shower, but had a really good time with lots of friends who are like family and whom I have known for a long time. Thanks Judy and Meagan!!

Club Fed

I have the best job ever. Yes, the job certainly has its intellectual challenges, but I seriously work with the best people. Not only is Judge Whitney graciously giving me tons of time off for maternity leave, but when I return, I get to stay on the flex schedule that will allow me to take every other Friday off and spend precious time with baby Herbie. When Judge Whitney's assistant Ruth found out we were having a girl, she made me a beautiful baby basket with onesies and washclothes all wrapped to look like roses. The basket full of baby stuff literally looks like a flower basket. I refuse to take it home and unwrap it because it is just so cute! As if that could not be beat, Ruth then organized a baby shower at the courthouse. Since it was at lunchtime, Patrick was able to come. The shower was also a chance to celebrate Judge Whitney's birthday and Joy's birthday (Judge Whitney's hard-working court reporter), since they occur over Thanksgiving and we never get a chance to recognize them! Here is a picture of all the honorees.

The phrase "Courthouse Family" is often used here, and for good reason. Everyone was so thoughtful in getting gifts for us. There was tons of pink (yay!), and we got some great essentials like a bathtub (which Patrick looks really excited about) and a Bumbo seat (that helps the baby work on sitting up before she can really sit up on her own). Its sort of funny when we open gifts like the Bumbo seat because Patrick had no idea what it was. There were several gifts that I had to explain to him what they were. The best was when he referred to a baby rattler as a "chew toy." Granted, it could be used as a teether, but you can tell we have had dogs WAY too long!!

(Ruth, who planned the shower for us and is the talented basket-maker, is in the picture above. We LOVE her!!).

It will no doubt be difficult to come back to work after my maternity leave, but when you work with such wonderful people, it really makes it a whole lot easier!

Halloween Weekend and Couples' Shower

We had a fun Halloween Weekend. As part of our Halloween tradition, Patrick spends a lot of time contemplating and carving the pumpkin. Our first year married, he carved our monogram. Last year, it was a the Carolina Panthers logo. This year, he carved "Herbie." (For those that haven't read our first post, that is what we are calling the baby.) Normally, we dress up to hand out candy, but I dropped the ball on that this year. It turned out to not be a big deal, however, because we only had about 5 trick or treaters. Earlier in the day, Patrick had a Halloween Party at work, and his group won Honorable Mention in the costume contest! The group included "John McCain," "Sarah Palin," "Sarah Palin's pregnant daughter," and "Joe, the Plumber" (Patrick). Patrick stayed dressed up as Joe the Plumber to hand out candy, but I'm pretty sure none of the kids knew who he was. Here is a picture from the office group:

On Halloween night, we fixed a big pot of chili and had our wonderful neighbors Rich and Ave over for the festivities. Misty, one of my best friends from law school, was in town for the weekend with her fiance Luke, and our friends Ashley and Adam came over and brought their baby boy Adler, who was dressed in the CUTEST monkey costume. Patrick got plenty of practice holding a baby and worked very hard at calming Adler with a pacifier.

On Saturday, Patrick and I had our first baby shower! It was a couples' shower (meaning guys came, too), and we had a great time with our friends. One of the only things I have actually craved while being pregnant is chocolate chip cookies, so they had a HUGE cookie cake at the shower. It was absolutely delcious, and we have enough left over to last my cravings for at least a week!!

My sisters Joan and Caroline hosted the shower, along with my good friends Misty and Covell, who are in the picture below. Our friends Derick and Shelly were also hosts, but Shelly missed the shower because she was out of town visiting family and Derick had just left when I remembered to take a picture. With Misty and Caroline's help, Joan cooked some of the most luscious food ever (not suprising).

The party was great fun, and Patrick and I were so blessed to receive such nice baby gifts!

One of our favorites was a baby life jacket from our friends Matt and Polly because we LOVE anything on the water (and hope Herbie will love sailing/boating/anything on the water, too!). Last summer (2007), Patrick and I sailed from New Bern to Ocracoke (with a stayover in Oriental) on Matt's 35 foot boat. It was one of our favorite trips ever - but certainly a DINK trip. At least we have a great lifejacket in case we want to try that again with the baby!

We got an awesome baby jogger stroller from our neighbors that will be perfect for Patrick to use on his 6 mile runs that he's doing several times a week now (and I GUESS I will use it too, although the "jogger" part is probably not necssary since I will just be walking - ha!). Also, I just cannot get enough of the hoodie towels. This one was handmade with pink and green detail (perfect!) by the wife of David Dulin, who works with Patrick.

Luckily, Luke and Patrick spent Saturday morning finishing moving furniture out of the bedroom that is going to be the nursery -- just in time to fill it with things from the shower. We are so thankful for our generous friends!