Wednesday, June 24, 2009

March 20, 1985 - "The Big Day"

The "Big Day" has finally arrived! Al came in at 7:30 AM, at 7:35 a nurse came into catheterize me OUCH!! That really hurt! At 8:00 AM I was wheeled into the labor room, where I was given an epidural. The needle itself didn't hurt, but having to sit up and bend over was a job and a half. The feeling was strange, the anesthesiologist kept checking to make sure I was getting numb. Kathy, Dr. Zelnick's nurse came in, she would be going into the operating room. Then Dr. Zelnick came in to see how I was. Deacon Humphrey came in and gave me a blessing.

The anesthesiologist kept checking my blood pressure with a machine. It was getting really low so he did it manually and somehow he was able to read it. I was REALLY nervous. I remember telling Al this was it, and I kept shaking because of nerves. I also said to Al, no matter if we have all boys or all girls this was it!!!

Then it was time to wheel me into the operating room. It was strange with no feeling from my chest down to my toes. I was put on the operating table, then everything starting happening, the nurse and Dr. Zelnick put sterilized liquid on my abdomen, then a drape was put at my chest so I couldn't see the operation. Al was at my left side of my head, so was Kathy. The anesthesiologist was at the top of head, another nurse was at my right arm. Dr Zelnick was at my left side then I don't know where everyone else was. There were three neo-natologists, three nursing teams, and three doctors. I didn't feel any pain when Dr. Zelnick was cutting me open. The only think I felt when Dr. Z started lifting the babies out was, a huge weight was being lifted off of me. Dr. Shram, Dr. Zelnick's partner was there also. Then at 9:58 AM it was announced a GIRL, another GIRL and another GIRL! I must say I was shocked, I just knew I was going to have all boys, but I was so happy I had girls. To hear three little babies wailing away was something. The main thing was that they were all healthy and had all their parts :-). The first time I was able to see them was when they were being weighed. They were names Baby A, Baby B, Baby C. I was given three more ID bracelets on my wrist with their "names". After the babies were somewhat cleaned up and wrapped in a blanket with little smurf hats on, a nurse brought over Baby A for me to kiss. During this Al took pictures and when they were ready to wheel the babies to newborn nursery he went with them. Because of their weights: 6 lbs. 2 ozs., 5 lbs. 3 ozs. and 6 lbs they didn't have to go to newborn neo-natal. Everyone in the operating room was amazed at the size and what good health the babies were in. Of course I just knew everything was going to be all right. After all, every two weeks, Dr. Zelnick took a sonogram to make sure they were growing at a good pace.

I was stitched and clamped then put on a stretcher and brought to the recovery room. On my way in and out of the operating room Deacon Humphrey was there praying for us. I was so grateful to him for being there the whole time. Mom & Dad got to come into the recovery room to say goodbye for a week. They were able to see the babies when they were being transported to the newborn nursery.

Being in the recovery room I missed everyone awaiting the arrival of the girls at the newborn nursery. Everyone form Finance was there including Fred, Martha, Dianne and Lynn.

The worst part was the nurse pushing on my stomach to get any extra blood out! When I finally was wheeled back to my room, everyone had left.

At 4:00 PM I finally got see our babies. I was still groggy from the pain medicine I had been given, so I wasn't with it. It just seemed so strange that these three beautiful little girls who were kicking the daylights out of me the day before are just laying in the "cribs" so peacefully.

Al was so proud of the girls and handled them like an old pro. It seemed like the camera was clicking away every minute.

Their little arms, fingers, legs and toes are so skinny and perfect. But it was hard to really enjoy them because of the pain and sleepiness.

Then Al left, I know he was tired, but was flying on cloud nine. I wonder if he remembers driving home.

March 19, 1985

Well, today I go to the hospital! I'm nervous to say the least!

Here I am. Mom & Dad brought me to the hospital where Al was. We went to admitting where we had to wait a bit, then I was admitted and got into a wheel chair. They took my blood pressure, weighed holy moly I weigh 195! Then we talked to the anesthesiologist and he talked about the epidural and we told him about the triplets. He didn't even know it. Somehow I would have thought he should have known that, oh well. Then off to my room. All the nurses are excited about the triplets. After I was undress and in bed, the nurses came to take my temperature, pulse and listen to the babies heart beats!!!

Al, Mom & Dad went for dinner in the cafeteria. I had a dinner and now I'm alone, they have all gone home.

The second shift came in checked me again, then one of the nurse came in and shaved me. I said I am having a c-section, she said Dr. Zelnick ordered this . . . I didn't care for that!

The nurse asked if I wanted a sleeping pill but no way! After all this, I didn't want to take anything unnecessary.

March 18, 1985

Wow, it has been over a month since I wrote in my journal.

My parents are here. Mom took some pictures of Dad and me before we went to the doctor's office for my checkup. It's getting tougher and tougher to get around. We met Al there and AL and I went into the examining room. Dr. Zelnick listened to the heart beats, everything sounds good. We talked about when he would schedule me fro the c-section because it is becoming really unbearable. We suggested the 20th because Mom and Dad have to leave to go back to Montgomery for a wedding reception they are catering. Dr. Z. called the hospital to see if he could schedule the room and yes so . . . . just two more days and we will know if we have girls, boys or both!!! Mom and Dad were happy they would be here for the happy occasion.

I'm happy but really scared. Al made all the necessary arrangement and so tomorrow at 2 PM I go into the hospital.

Oh and the 20th of March is Kathy and Jeff's 3rd anniversary.

February 11, 1985

Another Monday, so another trip to the doctors. Dianne took me, which is so nice of her. I just couldn't drive myself. Afterwards we went to the hospital and had lunch with Al. Then we went back to this office which to my surprise, a third baby shower. Barbara made three little babies in a basket which she folded one dollar bills for a skirt around the basket it was $92.00! We decided to buy three high chairs. I also received three bunny outfits from Kathy; three kimonos and three blankets and three squeaky toys from Barbara.

February 10, 1985

Another surprise day, the church along with Dianne and Lynn gave me another surprise baby shower. The cake had written on it: AL + LIL = 5! How cute was that.

I received: three rattles from Danielle Hart; three kimonos from Myra Schwebel; baby cosmetics from Donna Naples, a Rocking Horse music box from Rita Cote and Skip Riehle; $20.00 from Bea Adams Playtex bottles from Kerri; t-shits, coupons and baby wipes from Geri Treadway; three Pelueccios and three booties from Jan Hill; receiving blankets, towels and bibs from Carol Dennis & Mom (Genesa); three crib sheets from Inez & Dena; card from Donna Roesler; Pampers from Dot; bath tub from CCD Students; bath tub, wash cloths and sheets from Mimi; Luvs and diaper stacker from Betty; Luvs from Monique & family; Pampers from Eric Peterson; two packages of Luvs from Martha; diaper bag & supplies from Pearl Bornich; Car seat and baby bumper from St. David's Women's Club; Baby bumper & Car seat from CCD Teachers; Car seat from Dianne, Lynn, Monique & Bev; Money from Martha Ryan.

We played a baby bingo game that was fun. The food was good. Gerri Treadway brought a parasol, white with streamers that was over me, really pretty.

By the time the shower was over I was exhausted. But that was so nice of everyone.

February 9, 1985

This has been a very surprising day!!! Martha gave me a baby shower. I/we received a lot of nice gifts. The one I can't believe is from Eileen and Frank . . . they gave us a triplet stroller!!! BELIEVE me, I know that is going to be so useful. Other items are: a check for $25.00 from Terry Schantz; three yellow thermal blankets from Cleste Crawford; three sweater sets from Eileen's Mom; three sheets and kimonos from Debbie; three multi color blankets from Valli; sacs and booties from Brenda; Baby Cookie Monster, Baby Big Bird, Baby Grouch from Rusti; three pacifiers, sleepers and towels from Sharon; pink dress and swimsuit from Laura Bond; lap pads, sheets, bibs, shirts and Binky's from Patti; bear pillow and lamp from Adriane; booties and bibs from Carlene; lap pads and blankets from Andre; Pampers and book from Bunny and JoAnn; teething rings $10.00 and Luvs from Laura; play pen from Jeannie; bumper guards for the three cribs from Dianne and Lynn; diaper bag from Terry; rocking carrier from Susan; three bear banks from Anne; three rattles, two boxes of Pampers from Ellen; diapers from Billie; Clown lamp from Pam and Adriane; bear wall collage from Lois.

It was a real nice baby shower. Al made the cake with bottles and a rattle, it was really pretty. The food was good and it was good seeing everyone from work and friends. I haven't seen in a long time. We played some baby games, of course . . .

The day was long and tiring but I had a really good time.

February 8, 1985

TFIG, although I'm not working anymore, I still like Friday's, why not??? At least then Al is home for two days.

I slept all day, I felt really exhausted. The babies are still real active. It hurts something terrible when I sneeze. Right, don't sneeze then ha ha.

February 7, 1985

Dianne came over, so I could say goodbye to Chrissy. I know Dianne is really going to miss her since she has had her for 5 months.

The rest of the day I just rested. Al came home around 7:30 PM. It sure is a long day when he gets home late. And it seems he is always late.

The babies sure have been active today!

February 6, 1985

Today I must have slept the day away. I got up for breakfast and lunch and the rest of the time I was asleep.

Dianne stopped by after breakfast and brought me a magazine, "Baby Talk."

Al got home at 7:00 PM and before you know it, it's time for bed. At least the days seem to be going by faster.

February 5, 1985

A quiet morning, slept it away. Lunch time, mom called.

I received a call from Judy Lottman who belongs to a twins club out here. One of my neighbors told her about me. She was really nice, we must have talked almost 2 hours. There are a couple of triplets in the club, they meet the 2nd Thursday of every month at the Sportsroom. She is going to send me their newsletter. It sounds pretty good, I probably will join.

When AL came home, he brought in the mail and I received a lot of literature form the Triplet Connection. YAY! Matter-a-fact, I was in the Newsletter under expectant moms :-). There is A LOT of information which I am happy to receive. I must write Janet, the lady in charge and thank her for all the information.

Tuesday, June 23, 2009

February 4, 1985

Al called to make sure I was awake to get ready to come to the doctor's. He also said that Pam had a baby boy early Sunday morning.

I didn't have too much trouble getting my urine sample. I didn't gain anything this week. It sure feel it, I must say! Dr. Zelnick didn't have too much trouble finding the babies heart beats. Of course not, there are three of them lol. We asked about approximate weight of the babies. His guesstimate about 3 1/2 pounds. He is really happy with my progress so far. He said because of my cooperation with resting and doing nothing, that is why the babies haven't decided to come yet. They could come anytime in the next 4 1/2 weeks! It's exciting, but at the same time frightening. Next week I have another sonogram to see how they are growing.

After the doctor's visit we went to the hospital and Al bought Dianne and I lunch which was nice. I was glad when we did get home so I could lay down.

This evening after dinner, Al started cleaning our closet shelves. He is a good man. We are going to be a great team raising our triplets.

February 3, 1985

Al went to church and brought me my communion. I rested all day again, while Al worked in the middle room.

Penny's due date is today, but no phone call yet!

February 2, 1985

Again not much is happening. At least Al was home all day. I rested most of the day and evening while Al straighten the middle den/bedroom.

February 1, 1985

TGIF! Although everyday is the same for me. At least Al will be home with me the next two days.

The only exciting news is the babies were really moving a lot. It sure feels strange but nice. Today I'm 31 weeks into the pregnancy.

Mandy follows me everywhere. When Al is home she stays glued to me. She must sense something is going on and is different with me. Hello, of course she does, I can't see my feet anymore :-(.

January 31, 1985

Last day of the month. It's hard to believe, I've been laid up in bed almost a month. But sometimes it seems it has been a couple of months.

Another boring day. I doubt when the babies get here I will be saying that. At least Al got home around 6:30 PM this evening, so that was good. I received a letter from Kathy, which I will answer tomorrow. Something to look forward too.

January 30, 1985

Another day like all the rest. If I wasn't writing this journal every day, I wouldn't know what day it is.

Al called this afternoon said, I started my 8th month. That is a good feeling. Let's hope the three munchkins will stay put for at least six more weeks. Longer would be good.

I called Rita and thanked her for the figurine.

January 29, 1985

A real quiet day, nothing exciting. Rested and slept most of the day.

Al didn't get home till after 9:00 PM, because of bowling.

January 28, 1985

This afternoon I had a doctor's appointment. Dianne drove me and we met Al there.

I have gained seven lbs in two weeks, my blood pressure is good. Then, Dr. Zelnick wanted to do another sonogram, that was a surprise. It is just so amazing seeing the babies. Dr. Z. said they are doing good, just a little difference in growth, but are growing good. Dr. Z. measured their heads which ranged from 74-76 mm, we saw their hearts beating. The one on the bottom is the largest and we saw his/her little hand. Then he/she started sucking it's thumb OMG so cute. It was so surreal to know that they are inside me. With the largest baby below and it is down there, that's why I have so much pressure pain. Dr. Zelnick wants to see me every week now. He said this month is really crucial and I must rest completely, because the babies will have a better chance as preemies if I can hold on for another month.

Mom and Dad called this evening, they received our letter so that reminded them of my doctor's appointment today. They wanted to know what the doctor said and how both Al and I are coping with this challenge that is ahead of us. Hopefully in a couple of weeks they might be down here. That will be a relief for Al , with cooking and cleaning.

January 27, 1985

Al went to church, then went to the grocery store. When he came home we did our ceremony and he gave me communion. After lunch we took a nap. Then is was time for dinner. Oh be still my heart with all this excitement LOL.

I called Dianne, because we wanted to give Kerri her birthday gift. She invited us down for ice cream cake. We went down including Mandy (my dog), she was really happy to go visiting. Dianne's Mom and her sisters' Dena and Monquie and her family were there. Kerri liked the gift we gave her. We had cake, talked a bit then we had leave because of the pressure pain I was having. It's good to be lying down. Sometimes I wonder if I will make it to March. I hope so for he babies sake.

January 26, 1985

It's Saturday, Al had some errands to run and I spent most of the day in bed. This is becoming really boring. But it is good for the babies. Thank heavens these are my first! What in the world would I do if I had other's to take care of?

Al has the den almost in order, he spent the afternoon and evening putting books on the bookcases.

Rusti and Joe were suppose to come over, but I was in too much pain to sit up and socialize. So I spent the evening lying down and going through old magazines.

January 24, 1985

A pretty boring morning, I slept most of it. Around 1:40 PM UPS came and I received a package from Kathy. She sent two maternity dresses and six outfits for the babies. Three with bears and three with turtles. They are called Onesies from Gerber, really cute!

The tent sale Al went to didn't have the Celebrity Station Wagon, so needless to say he didn't buy anything. One good thing was he received a walkman radio for going.

The little munchkins are moving about a lot when I sit up. Not too much when I lay down.

Sunday, June 21, 2009

January 23, 1985

A package from Mom came today. She sent 3 baby outfits, 2 night gowns, robe and a maternity top. That was sweet of her.

Sharon picked me up at 7:00 PM to take me to the hospital for the Epidural class. She met her husband Don and I met Al. The doors to the cafeteria didn't open till exactly at 8:00 Pm LOL An anesthesiologist talked about epidurals, than showed a slide presentation. Before he talked, we were passed forms to fill out. After the slide show was done, the question time, then 10 minute break. After the break the head nurse of Labor and Delivery gave a slide presentation of a tour of the Labor & Delivery floor. After her presentation there were questions, then we left.

Al drove me to the Chevy dealer to see the van, it sure is pretty. Then we went to the Ford dealer. We saw station wagons and club wagons. Fords are more expensive then Chevy's. Tomorrow Al goes to a Chevy tent sale at Lockhart Stadium. That should be interesting. Wish I could go to that.

I must lay down, the babies are kicking and my bottom hurts from the pressure.

January 22, 1985

Around noon "Meals on Wheels" came! Which is one other than Lynn. You just wouldn't believe what she brought. Homemade beef-a-roni in her crockpot, salad and dressing, rolls and butter, cheese and crackers, tea pot, tea cups and saucers, tea bags, pretty paper plates, napkins, plastic ware, homemade lemon meringue pie and after dinner mints. It was so nice of her, next week it's Dianne's turn.

The bookcases came around 3:30 PM. they are nice, the room sure is going to look different. Al sure as a lot to do before the babies arrive.

I received a few phone calls tonight. It makes the time go by a little faster.

January 21, 1985

I had a couple of visitors today. Lynn came by and while she was here Dianne and her daughter Kerri. Lynn and Dianne are coming by lunch time tomorrow with lunch. Yay!

The phone company finally came at 3:50 PM! Fixed the phone in a matter of minutes, of course! I called Al right away to let him know I'm linked with the outside world again. He said they weren't going to come till tomorrow because of the back log, but he told them I was pregnant and alone so . . . in that view they got someone here today.

Mom called, they won't be coming down this week, something came up with the restaurant.

Al came home around 8:30 PM He was wheeling and dealing for a Chevy Van. He said if they would give him more for the Toyota he would have bought it right then. He is going to find out the wholesale for the Toyota tomorrow through the Credit Union at work.

I can't sit too long because the pressure is just too painful. So I'm in the horizontal position now, which it seems I'm like this 98% of the time. *sigh*

January 20, 1985

Super Bowl Sunday! But it wasn't a super one for the Miami Dophins. The 49ers wiped them out 38 to 16, oh well. There is always next year.

Al came home from church and now is Extraordinary Minister so he can give me communion while I'm laid up in bed.

Dianne came over with a plant and the pamphlet from the Mother/Children Communion breakfast. Wish I could have gone, maybe next year. She has two babies, one she gives up tomorrow and she is so glad two is just too much. Oh, for those who are reading this, Dianne takes in babies that are waiting for adoption through Catholic Services.

Dianne had both little girls here, what a zoo . . . one was fussing because she has a cold then the other because she was hungry, the door bell ringing and Mandy my dog trying to lick everyone. To top it off my phone is out of order. Al helped Dianne bring the babies back to her house and called the phone company from Dianne's to report our phone is not working. The said it would be fixed by 4:00 PM tomorrow great! I sure hope sooner, than that, I really will feel I'm cut off from the world.

Oh my, the munchkins sure are kicking today. I can't lie on my left side because they really kick harder. One more week gone which is good. I'm taking day by day. Hopefully they won't want to come out for another seven weeks or more.

January 19, 1985

I had a hard time getting to sleep last night. I just couldn't get comfortable. I was up at 6:00 AM had some tea and toast. Then went back to bed and slept till 10:00 AM

Penny called and said she'd be over. She is due February 4th. not too far off. Deacon Humphrey called to see how I am and then Dianne called.

Al just left to do some shopping. He is going to stop by some baby furniture places to check them out.

Penny came by and stayed a couple of hours. When she left she took the birds, wahoo! Man when we left with the bird the house was so quiet. I'll be glad when we put something in that corner so it won't look so bare.

We went to see David Copperfield, and I lasted the whole time, whew! It was pretty good, Al bought a program and at the end of the performance he got David Copperfield's autograph. I couldn't wait to get home so I could lay down.

January 18, 1985

I received a few phone calls in the morning. The rest of the day I slept. I can't believe how much I sleep, I guess I must need it.

Al came home around 9:00 PM. Damn long day! At least he is off on the weekends.

We received letters from Kathy, Eddie and Jeanette. Kathy sent a picture of herself in the coat we sent her for her birthday. She looks real nice in it.

January 17, 1985

Nothing exciting again today. Slept a lot.

Mid morning I watched Dianne's newest addition for just a half an hour.

Received a few phone calls and made some throughout the day.

Al didn't come home till 7:40 PM. That was a long day.

Adrienne from work stopped by for about half an hour. She dropped off some oranges from her tree. Yummy!

January 16, 1985

I feel a lot better than yesterday.

It seems the babies kick a lot more when I'm sitting in the rocking chair.

Mom and Dad called, dad hopes to be down here next week to pick up the equipment for his restaurant. Mom might be coming down with him. I hope so, I'd like to see them before the babies are born.

Saturday, June 20, 2009

January 14, 1985

At 1:30 P.M. Dianne came to take me to the doctor. We met At there and when I arrived I didn't have to sit down. Kathy, my nurse, called me in, weighed me and I gained 7 lbs. I'm 172, holy moly! Al and I went into the examining room to wait for Dr. Zelnick. I'm 28 weeks now, and he hopes I will go 8 more weeks. Dr. Zelnick found all three heart beats :-) My next appointment will be the 28th.

Afterwards, Dianne and I went to Burger King where I treated her. After all she is driving me to the doctors. I don't know what I would do without her help.

Mom and Dad called, I told them what the doctor said. Also told Mom to wait till I was in the hospital because I will need her more after I'm home.

January 13, 1985

It's Sunday, Al went to church. While he was there Deacon Humphrey came to gave me communion. He is going to make Al an Extraordinary Minister so Al can give me communion. It was really nice of Deacon Humphrey to come all the way out here for me.

Dianne came down and spent some time with me. I enjoy having some company. She will be talking me to the doctor tomorrow. I wish I could tell her that Al and I have decided to ask her and John to be God-Parents to one of the triplets. But we want to wait till the babies are born. Al came home shortly after Dianne left. He went grocery shopping and picked up the magazine, "Family Circle". I has an article in it about triplets. There is a club called "The Triplet Connection" that I want to write and join.

January 12, 1985

Al went scuba diving this morning. it doesn't seem that warm for a dive. I hope he has a good one.

Around noon I got a phone call from my cousin David (he likes to be called Dave now ;-). I haven't talked to him in 15 years! In February he plans to go see his oldest sister, Patti in Bartow, Florida new Orlando. He hopes to come down here for a couple of days. I hope so, I'd love to see him.

I talked to Penny today. At work they have her a surprise baby shower, wish I could have been there. She is now retired also . . .

Al is home, he said the first dive was really good with good visibility but the second dive was the pits.

January 11, 1985

Another long and uneventful day. It's hard to believe it is Friday, it seems every day is the same.

At least on Monday, I will get out of the house. Dianne is taking me to the doctors. I have a 2:15 P.M. appointment.

Mom called, she thought I had my appointment today.

January 10, 1985

Uneventful day. This evening I called the lady who had triplets 9 years ago. it was good talking to someone who already went through having multiples. Her name is Kathy, should be easy to remember her name, since that is the my sister's name. She had her triplets naturally, which was /is unusual. We talked over an hour. One of the main things I wanted to remember is that she kept a journal on everything each of the triplets did . . . bowel movement etc. When they got sick she made a chart and put it on her fridge so when the doctor called and asked about if one of them had a temperature she didn't have to rely on her memory. She said I will do great and it will be tough at times but so rewarding.

January 9, 1985

I thought I should try and finish my journal regarding my triplet pregnancy.

Dianne brought over something from the church. When Al came home he took it out of the box. It looks like a carriage minus the wheels and cover. I don't think we will be keeping it, because it's not really practical for us.

Someone from Al's work had twins and is giving us two cradles. It seems to be coming together.

I tier out really easy now. I think I've gotten bigger from last week.