Avocado News

We got the great news this week... Baby Avocado is genetically safe!

There's a 1:1600 chance that baby avocado could have Downs Syndrome and 1:26,000 chance that baby avocado could have Trisomie 18. Those are amazing numbers and yes... we were concerned with everything, since we've chosen to wait so long.

My doctor told me that I was one of her top 10 healthiest pregnant women.. which Joe was SO excited about, and it actually made me so sad. Don't get me wrong, I am thrilled that she thinks I am healthy, really... but in the top 10?! I know that I could eat better, exercise more, make better life choices.. and this means is that there are 1000's of women out there that are in questionable health conditions. Yep, that' the mercy in me...

Both Joe and my mom had to remind me to keep positive, and worry more about me and the babe. So I did have another chat with my doctor who reminded me that of all the crazy ideas I've had in my life about; worrying about organic clothing, organic vegetables & milk... stressing about housing products that gas-off, making conscious decisions to be environmental.. all of this has helped keep me healthier. (ok, there is a small part inside of me that wants all my crazy ex-boyfriends to know that I wasn't crazy... being environmentally smart is healthy smart!!) and Joey, you are the best!

So, all in all... we are doing great! Baby Avocado is moving around a little. and I can't wait to see if you are a little Aimee or a little Joey!

"I tricked you..."

I had my second ultrasound scheduled along with genetic testing. One of my bridesmaids warned me (knowing my huge fear of blood) that they'd take 15 viles of blood. Everyone else I talked to, said that was rediculous. It didn't matter, I knew I would pass out and vomit and, and, and...

I have never donated blood. Yes, I am a girly-girl when it comes to blood, hence why I am a teacher, not a doctor. If you were in my 4th grade class, you'll remember my oral presentation of "What I want to be when I grow up: NOT a vet!" I spent a few days researching the job and shadowing our local vet. I got nauseous during shots and blood draws, but the worst was when a little Schnauzer was being checked for... I don't know, foreign objects up the bum? Anyhow, when that gloved finger went in... the dog's neck went straight and boom! Aimee went down. From that day, I never wanted to be a vet again, nothing in medicine. I took several F's in Biology to opt out of any dissection or blood. elck.

So, Joe-Joey gave me adult pep talks about how smart and strong I am, that I can do this, give 15 viles of blood. I actually thought I could too. Until that morning, I crumpled. Joe was already at work and I needed a hand to hold. I quickly called Jimmy, Joe's step-dad, whom cleared his schedule to come save this damsel in distress.

We got to the appointment and the ultrasound was first, but I wanted to trick Jimmy. When we went in I was talking about how I need my dad to hold my hand when I give blood and started rolling down my pants and up my shirt. I could only imagine what he was thinking... "Where are they going to take the blood from, your belly?" I tricked you!! It's an ultrasound, you get to see the baby today!!

Now, even though Jimmy helped raise Susanne and Joseph, I don't believe he had ever witnessed an ultrasound. It was so awesome to see it through his eyes. Being the true Jimmy, he asked a gazillion questions, "What's that?", "Why is the baby doing flips?", "Where did you go to school?"... it really was amazing to see the baby SO active in there, arching his back, flicking his head and floating up and quietly sinking down... just to do it all over again. I think the Sonographer was so happy to see Jimmy so tickled that she printed off many photos for us to share. :)

Then we went across the street to donate my buckets of blood. I just asked Jimmy to keep talking to me so I'd laugh. He was great. I was SO distracted that she only took one vile of blood and it was easy. Too easy, only one vile?! I can't believe I've never donated blood before. I'm totally doing this after my delivery. I was instructed to go get a Frosty (ok!?) and rest. Jimmy and I separated and I drove home. Upon getting out of my car, I noticed the stack of papers I had in my hands while giving blood. UMMMM, what are these?

My worst fear was correct... I drove back to the vampire shop and gave them the papers, they almost lost their face, trying not to laugh. Yep, I had to give 12 more viles of blood. Well, I am actually grateful of how it turned out. If I had to give 13 viles of blood all at once, I think I would have been a puddle of tears, but the phlebotomist did a great job and I didn't cry. It was all worth it... look at these beautiful photos of Baby Lemon!