Lilypie 2nd Birthday Ticker

Tuesday, September 30, 2008

16 months old

Eli is 16 months old today! It's hard to believe he's that old already. The time has just flown by. I went to the doctor today, and there was a woman there with a 7 week old baby boy. Every time I see a baby boy, I think about Eli at that age, and the fact that we weren't together. I wish that Eli could have been with us when he was that young. I wish we could have loved and held him every single day since he was born.

Attachment is going very well. He has been home 5 1/2 months now, and in the last 2 weeks, we've really noticed a change. He and I have built a relationship. We have gotten to know each other, and have a genuine bond now. He'll put his head on my chest and snuggle against me. When I carry him, he'll hold on to my arm. He'll cry and put his arms out for me, wanting me (and not just anyone) to hold him. Because it didn't happen instantly, I think it means more to me. It is so special.

He was so traumatized when we first brought him home, so afraid and unsure. Now his real personality has emerged, and he is an absolutely amazing boy, a true delight and joy. He is loving, gentle, mellow, smart, and overall, happy. He smiles and laughs often, and has a great sense of humor. Considering what he has been through - 3 months in the hospital and almost 8 months in the orphanage - there is no reason for him to be any of those things. God was with him, and now we feel so blessed to be his parents.

I had a 2nd ultrasound today. The doctor was concerned that the baby might be big, because my uterus measured larger than it should have. Turns out she is fine. They estimate she weighs 3 lbs 12 oz, which is 45th percentile for her weight for this stage of pregnancy. (I'm 32 weeks now.) The reason my uterus was larger is because I have more amniotic fluid. I'm still in the normal range, but at the upper end. (21, and anything over 25 is a problem). It happens when there is gestational diabetes, but I don't have that, so they're not sure what the cause is. Since I'm 43, it could just be my age. The extra fluid explains why I felt so huge for the last few weeks, and also the swelling in my feet and ankles.

My blood pressure was still low, 102/60. Otherwise, the baby is healthy, and the doctors think we're doing fine, thank God.

Most of today's ultrasound was done in the regular 2D, but the tech did a short 3D segment at the end of our session, and we got some fabulous pictures of our daughter's face:





She is so beautiful, and the Lord has blessed us beyond belief.

7 comments:

Kevin T. said...

Hi Ana,
I have tears reading what you wrote about Eli - It is so amazing how far you all have come.
Those ultrasound pictures are incredible - It is amazing to see her face - How beautiful!!

Troy and Rachel said...

Those pictures are amazing! I have been watching your ticker for the countdown to your due date faithfully! I am so glad Eli is adjusting so well and the attachment has come so far. You have a beautiful family.

Beth said...

So happy for you and Eli! I am always so amazed at how resilient our kiddos are. Loved the pictures of your daughter - she's beautiful. Can't wait to hear the news of her arrival. Take care the next few weeks.

Tiger & Kar said...

I am so proud of Eli - - what a special and very brave little boy! Your daughter is beautiful! Those pictures are amazing! It's hard to believe Eli has been home for 5 1/2 months now. Time flies!

Tiger & Kar said...

hi again - - i forgot to tell you that you've been tagged. go to my blog to check it out. enjoy!

Heather & Jason said...

Oh Ana, I wish you all the happiness and joy possible. Your TWO babies are wonderful and so precious. God bless your family!

Deb said...

Amazing pictures. Glad she is doing well. She'll be here so soon.

Wonderful to hear that Eli is bonding with you. I can imagine how special it is.