Memories of Lauren (lightNlife)
- Thread starter lightNlifesMan
- Start date
Here are some sweet pm's from your misses. My name is also Lauren. She was a great kid.
7-5-07
Hey girl,
Just wanted to say hi and let you know that I'm keeping you and the baby in my thoughts and prayers. I hope you're not too uncomfortable as you get closer to delivery day.
Best wishes,
Lauren
------
7-28-07
Well, hello there new mommy! How are you surviving? I spent time today with one of my college friends who told me she's expecting twins. After she left I starting thinking about and praying for all the gals I know who are pregnant or newly "mommied."
I understand if you're too tired to write back. I just wanted to let you know that you're being thought about.
Warmly,
Lauren
-------
7-28-07
FROM ME
Lauren, It was so ironic that you wrote me a message today because I was planning on getting online to write you back from your 7/5 note. It really made my day back earlier this month to get that message from you and I wanted to write to let you know how happy it made me.
I was at work on that Friday. What a weird feeling it was not knowing when the baby would arrive and what delivery would be like. I was excited and could barely concentrate. Reading your message and knowing others were thinking of us comforted me. Saturday I ran errands and then Sunday I took it easy and the cleaning lady came. That night at 3 in the morning my water broke. It was a squirt with any move by me or the baby...not at all the gush I expected. I went back to bed until 8am and prayed that contractions would start on their own because I knew the doctors generally like to "meet the baby" within 24 hrs. of the water breaking due to risk of infection.
Contractions didn't start and I was placed on Pitocin at 2pm on Monday afternoon. I wondered why things weren't happening as nature intended, if there weren't medical help what was God's plan?? I thought of you and your faith and resolved that what was meant to be would be and that I was just along for the ride to bring a healthy baby boy into this world.
Things got hairy at about 1 in the morning around 11 hours after the contractions began. I was getting tired and having a difficult time resisting the urge to just push the baby out and be done with it (which was not an option because my cervix was only dialated to 8cm and pushing could have ruptured my uterus). The pain was intense with only 45 second contraction cycles. In that short amount of time I went from burning up to freezing like I was swimming in the Arctic. During this difficult 3 hour period (where I was stuck at 8cm without an epidural) you again popped into my mind. I don't know how to put it into words but I respect your grace under pressure. Cf has socked it to you but you manage very well. You empower people through your writing and you enjoy the little things in life. For some reason this comforted me in that difficult time.
I'm glad you're part of the site
So how are you?
All the best,
Lauren
-----
7-29-07
Lauren,
Wow. I am so touched and very moved by your words. Thank you for sharing with me how the whole thing went. Many of my friends who've had kids have also expressed how much they wanted things to go "as nature intended" and feel like they're somehow missing out on the experience if they don't deliver vaginally. I figure that the experience is really about seeing that little life for the first time and being able to hold that child in your arms. To oversimplify a metaphor, I guess I'd say that whether you take the elevator or the stairs, the point is that you arrive at the top floor.
I'm so glad that you have been comforted and encouraged by me in different ways. That's really all I want to be able to do in life--to be a blessing of sorts to anyone who crosses my path. It's interesting that you said "grace" under pressure. My middle name is Grace, and since Lauren means "victorious" I figure I should live up to my name.
Things are going pretty well here. As you saw on the forums I had a kick-butt great appt. this week. We went out to dinner tonight with my in-laws to celebrate a belated birthday for my husband. Good stuff. I've been getting a little bit more freelance work tossed in my direction, so it's nice to have something to keep me occupied during the day.
Thanks again for writing. Be sure to kiss the baby for me!
-Lauren
-----
9-11-07
Happy Birthday to you! I think of you a lot and pray for you whenever your name comes to mind. I hope you're having a wonderful birthday celebration. I know this year is extra special since it's your first birthday as a MOMMY! That's certainly reason to be joyful.
Consider yourself {hugged}, and give that sweet baby of yours a great big cuddle and a kiss.
Here's to many more years spent doing the things that make life worth living,
Lauren
-----
9-12-07
What is it about folded laundry that makes everything feel "together." I love it when laundry is folded and put away. I spent some time doing that on Monday and it just makes me feel quite settled. I love keeping a nice home for my husband
I hope the sleep training goes well! One of my dearest friends, Jen, called last week and told me "Hannah learned to roll over and sleep on her tummy!" Little Hannah has been having a lot of trouble sleeping through the night, and now it's not an issue! Funny how little things can make a difference.
Thanks for sharing a bit more about what your husband is up to. I'm sure glad you have each other. It's great to have a husband who is good at what he does. I hope all the preparation for the pharma job will pay off. I'm sure he'll find a position that's a great fit for all of you.
My husband started his new job last week. He's such a happier person now that he's back in a somewhat academic setting. (He got a job at UC San Diego with a research group there.) He's a natural brain, and his old job wasn't stimulating him enough.
As for me, I've got all the stimulation I can handle right now. Ha! I'm still working out and doing various writing projects. I've got a HUGE transcription project on my desk right now. 800+ pages! Wowzers! It's interesting stuff though, not too dry, which makes the work go faster.
Gotta run, the bunny needs some exercise and I need a snack.
It was good to hear from you!
-Lauren
-----
A REPLY FROM HER AFTER MY SON WAS FOUND TO HAVE 2 cF MUTATIONS
Hi Lauren,
I read your post and wanted to give you a great big hug. Your line "I thought I was a responsible CFer" got me. You ARE a responsible CFer. You've having your child tested now, and are taking the steps to care for him NOW. That's exactly what a responsible person does.
Please don't beat yourself up over this. (Easier said than done, I know.) You have a wonderful supportive husband, a good knowledge of CF, and are going to be great at anticipating what your child needs. You have the experience necessary to cope with this event in life.
Try not to worry yourself by playing the game of "If only" or "what if." Just as you do with your own health, take each day as it comes. God will give you the mercy and grace to help you in your time of need.
We are all here for you as well. You can do this. Give yourself time to adjust, and go ahead and cry. It's a good way to release frustration. You are an incredible young woman, and uniquely equipped for this battle. You can do it. God will help. My husband and I will be praying for your family so much.
Warmly,
Lauren
7-5-07
Hey girl,
Just wanted to say hi and let you know that I'm keeping you and the baby in my thoughts and prayers. I hope you're not too uncomfortable as you get closer to delivery day.
Best wishes,
Lauren
------
7-28-07
Well, hello there new mommy! How are you surviving? I spent time today with one of my college friends who told me she's expecting twins. After she left I starting thinking about and praying for all the gals I know who are pregnant or newly "mommied."
I understand if you're too tired to write back. I just wanted to let you know that you're being thought about.
Warmly,
Lauren
-------
7-28-07
FROM ME
Lauren, It was so ironic that you wrote me a message today because I was planning on getting online to write you back from your 7/5 note. It really made my day back earlier this month to get that message from you and I wanted to write to let you know how happy it made me.
I was at work on that Friday. What a weird feeling it was not knowing when the baby would arrive and what delivery would be like. I was excited and could barely concentrate. Reading your message and knowing others were thinking of us comforted me. Saturday I ran errands and then Sunday I took it easy and the cleaning lady came. That night at 3 in the morning my water broke. It was a squirt with any move by me or the baby...not at all the gush I expected. I went back to bed until 8am and prayed that contractions would start on their own because I knew the doctors generally like to "meet the baby" within 24 hrs. of the water breaking due to risk of infection.
Contractions didn't start and I was placed on Pitocin at 2pm on Monday afternoon. I wondered why things weren't happening as nature intended, if there weren't medical help what was God's plan?? I thought of you and your faith and resolved that what was meant to be would be and that I was just along for the ride to bring a healthy baby boy into this world.
Things got hairy at about 1 in the morning around 11 hours after the contractions began. I was getting tired and having a difficult time resisting the urge to just push the baby out and be done with it (which was not an option because my cervix was only dialated to 8cm and pushing could have ruptured my uterus). The pain was intense with only 45 second contraction cycles. In that short amount of time I went from burning up to freezing like I was swimming in the Arctic. During this difficult 3 hour period (where I was stuck at 8cm without an epidural) you again popped into my mind. I don't know how to put it into words but I respect your grace under pressure. Cf has socked it to you but you manage very well. You empower people through your writing and you enjoy the little things in life. For some reason this comforted me in that difficult time.
I'm glad you're part of the site
So how are you?
All the best,
Lauren
-----
7-29-07
Lauren,
Wow. I am so touched and very moved by your words. Thank you for sharing with me how the whole thing went. Many of my friends who've had kids have also expressed how much they wanted things to go "as nature intended" and feel like they're somehow missing out on the experience if they don't deliver vaginally. I figure that the experience is really about seeing that little life for the first time and being able to hold that child in your arms. To oversimplify a metaphor, I guess I'd say that whether you take the elevator or the stairs, the point is that you arrive at the top floor.
I'm so glad that you have been comforted and encouraged by me in different ways. That's really all I want to be able to do in life--to be a blessing of sorts to anyone who crosses my path. It's interesting that you said "grace" under pressure. My middle name is Grace, and since Lauren means "victorious" I figure I should live up to my name.
Things are going pretty well here. As you saw on the forums I had a kick-butt great appt. this week. We went out to dinner tonight with my in-laws to celebrate a belated birthday for my husband. Good stuff. I've been getting a little bit more freelance work tossed in my direction, so it's nice to have something to keep me occupied during the day.
Thanks again for writing. Be sure to kiss the baby for me!
-Lauren
-----
9-11-07
Happy Birthday to you! I think of you a lot and pray for you whenever your name comes to mind. I hope you're having a wonderful birthday celebration. I know this year is extra special since it's your first birthday as a MOMMY! That's certainly reason to be joyful.
Consider yourself {hugged}, and give that sweet baby of yours a great big cuddle and a kiss.
Here's to many more years spent doing the things that make life worth living,
Lauren
-----
9-12-07
What is it about folded laundry that makes everything feel "together." I love it when laundry is folded and put away. I spent some time doing that on Monday and it just makes me feel quite settled. I love keeping a nice home for my husband
I hope the sleep training goes well! One of my dearest friends, Jen, called last week and told me "Hannah learned to roll over and sleep on her tummy!" Little Hannah has been having a lot of trouble sleeping through the night, and now it's not an issue! Funny how little things can make a difference.
Thanks for sharing a bit more about what your husband is up to. I'm sure glad you have each other. It's great to have a husband who is good at what he does. I hope all the preparation for the pharma job will pay off. I'm sure he'll find a position that's a great fit for all of you.
My husband started his new job last week. He's such a happier person now that he's back in a somewhat academic setting. (He got a job at UC San Diego with a research group there.) He's a natural brain, and his old job wasn't stimulating him enough.
As for me, I've got all the stimulation I can handle right now. Ha! I'm still working out and doing various writing projects. I've got a HUGE transcription project on my desk right now. 800+ pages! Wowzers! It's interesting stuff though, not too dry, which makes the work go faster.
Gotta run, the bunny needs some exercise and I need a snack.
It was good to hear from you!
-Lauren
-----
A REPLY FROM HER AFTER MY SON WAS FOUND TO HAVE 2 cF MUTATIONS
Hi Lauren,
I read your post and wanted to give you a great big hug. Your line "I thought I was a responsible CFer" got me. You ARE a responsible CFer. You've having your child tested now, and are taking the steps to care for him NOW. That's exactly what a responsible person does.
Please don't beat yourself up over this. (Easier said than done, I know.) You have a wonderful supportive husband, a good knowledge of CF, and are going to be great at anticipating what your child needs. You have the experience necessary to cope with this event in life.
Try not to worry yourself by playing the game of "If only" or "what if." Just as you do with your own health, take each day as it comes. God will give you the mercy and grace to help you in your time of need.
We are all here for you as well. You can do this. Give yourself time to adjust, and go ahead and cry. It's a good way to release frustration. You are an incredible young woman, and uniquely equipped for this battle. You can do it. God will help. My husband and I will be praying for your family so much.
Warmly,
Lauren
Here are some sweet pm's from your misses. My name is also Lauren. She was a great kid.
7-5-07
Hey girl,
Just wanted to say hi and let you know that I'm keeping you and the baby in my thoughts and prayers. I hope you're not too uncomfortable as you get closer to delivery day.
Best wishes,
Lauren
------
7-28-07
Well, hello there new mommy! How are you surviving? I spent time today with one of my college friends who told me she's expecting twins. After she left I starting thinking about and praying for all the gals I know who are pregnant or newly "mommied."
I understand if you're too tired to write back. I just wanted to let you know that you're being thought about.
Warmly,
Lauren
-------
7-28-07
FROM ME
Lauren, It was so ironic that you wrote me a message today because I was planning on getting online to write you back from your 7/5 note. It really made my day back earlier this month to get that message from you and I wanted to write to let you know how happy it made me.
I was at work on that Friday. What a weird feeling it was not knowing when the baby would arrive and what delivery would be like. I was excited and could barely concentrate. Reading your message and knowing others were thinking of us comforted me. Saturday I ran errands and then Sunday I took it easy and the cleaning lady came. That night at 3 in the morning my water broke. It was a squirt with any move by me or the baby...not at all the gush I expected. I went back to bed until 8am and prayed that contractions would start on their own because I knew the doctors generally like to "meet the baby" within 24 hrs. of the water breaking due to risk of infection.
Contractions didn't start and I was placed on Pitocin at 2pm on Monday afternoon. I wondered why things weren't happening as nature intended, if there weren't medical help what was God's plan?? I thought of you and your faith and resolved that what was meant to be would be and that I was just along for the ride to bring a healthy baby boy into this world.
Things got hairy at about 1 in the morning around 11 hours after the contractions began. I was getting tired and having a difficult time resisting the urge to just push the baby out and be done with it (which was not an option because my cervix was only dialated to 8cm and pushing could have ruptured my uterus). The pain was intense with only 45 second contraction cycles. In that short amount of time I went from burning up to freezing like I was swimming in the Arctic. During this difficult 3 hour period (where I was stuck at 8cm without an epidural) you again popped into my mind. I don't know how to put it into words but I respect your grace under pressure. Cf has socked it to you but you manage very well. You empower people through your writing and you enjoy the little things in life. For some reason this comforted me in that difficult time.
I'm glad you're part of the site
So how are you?
All the best,
Lauren
-----
7-29-07
Lauren,
Wow. I am so touched and very moved by your words. Thank you for sharing with me how the whole thing went. Many of my friends who've had kids have also expressed how much they wanted things to go "as nature intended" and feel like they're somehow missing out on the experience if they don't deliver vaginally. I figure that the experience is really about seeing that little life for the first time and being able to hold that child in your arms. To oversimplify a metaphor, I guess I'd say that whether you take the elevator or the stairs, the point is that you arrive at the top floor.
I'm so glad that you have been comforted and encouraged by me in different ways. That's really all I want to be able to do in life--to be a blessing of sorts to anyone who crosses my path. It's interesting that you said "grace" under pressure. My middle name is Grace, and since Lauren means "victorious" I figure I should live up to my name.
Things are going pretty well here. As you saw on the forums I had a kick-butt great appt. this week. We went out to dinner tonight with my in-laws to celebrate a belated birthday for my husband. Good stuff. I've been getting a little bit more freelance work tossed in my direction, so it's nice to have something to keep me occupied during the day.
Thanks again for writing. Be sure to kiss the baby for me!
-Lauren
-----
9-11-07
Happy Birthday to you! I think of you a lot and pray for you whenever your name comes to mind. I hope you're having a wonderful birthday celebration. I know this year is extra special since it's your first birthday as a MOMMY! That's certainly reason to be joyful.
Consider yourself {hugged}, and give that sweet baby of yours a great big cuddle and a kiss.
Here's to many more years spent doing the things that make life worth living,
Lauren
-----
9-12-07
What is it about folded laundry that makes everything feel "together." I love it when laundry is folded and put away. I spent some time doing that on Monday and it just makes me feel quite settled. I love keeping a nice home for my husband
I hope the sleep training goes well! One of my dearest friends, Jen, called last week and told me "Hannah learned to roll over and sleep on her tummy!" Little Hannah has been having a lot of trouble sleeping through the night, and now it's not an issue! Funny how little things can make a difference.
Thanks for sharing a bit more about what your husband is up to. I'm sure glad you have each other. It's great to have a husband who is good at what he does. I hope all the preparation for the pharma job will pay off. I'm sure he'll find a position that's a great fit for all of you.
My husband started his new job last week. He's such a happier person now that he's back in a somewhat academic setting. (He got a job at UC San Diego with a research group there.) He's a natural brain, and his old job wasn't stimulating him enough.
As for me, I've got all the stimulation I can handle right now. Ha! I'm still working out and doing various writing projects. I've got a HUGE transcription project on my desk right now. 800+ pages! Wowzers! It's interesting stuff though, not too dry, which makes the work go faster.
Gotta run, the bunny needs some exercise and I need a snack.
It was good to hear from you!
-Lauren
-----
A REPLY FROM HER AFTER MY SON WAS FOUND TO HAVE 2 cF MUTATIONS
Hi Lauren,
I read your post and wanted to give you a great big hug. Your line "I thought I was a responsible CFer" got me. You ARE a responsible CFer. You've having your child tested now, and are taking the steps to care for him NOW. That's exactly what a responsible person does.
Please don't beat yourself up over this. (Easier said than done, I know.) You have a wonderful supportive husband, a good knowledge of CF, and are going to be great at anticipating what your child needs. You have the experience necessary to cope with this event in life.
Try not to worry yourself by playing the game of "If only" or "what if." Just as you do with your own health, take each day as it comes. God will give you the mercy and grace to help you in your time of need.
We are all here for you as well. You can do this. Give yourself time to adjust, and go ahead and cry. It's a good way to release frustration. You are an incredible young woman, and uniquely equipped for this battle. You can do it. God will help. My husband and I will be praying for your family so much.
Warmly,
Lauren
7-5-07
Hey girl,
Just wanted to say hi and let you know that I'm keeping you and the baby in my thoughts and prayers. I hope you're not too uncomfortable as you get closer to delivery day.
Best wishes,
Lauren
------
7-28-07
Well, hello there new mommy! How are you surviving? I spent time today with one of my college friends who told me she's expecting twins. After she left I starting thinking about and praying for all the gals I know who are pregnant or newly "mommied."
I understand if you're too tired to write back. I just wanted to let you know that you're being thought about.
Warmly,
Lauren
-------
7-28-07
FROM ME
Lauren, It was so ironic that you wrote me a message today because I was planning on getting online to write you back from your 7/5 note. It really made my day back earlier this month to get that message from you and I wanted to write to let you know how happy it made me.
I was at work on that Friday. What a weird feeling it was not knowing when the baby would arrive and what delivery would be like. I was excited and could barely concentrate. Reading your message and knowing others were thinking of us comforted me. Saturday I ran errands and then Sunday I took it easy and the cleaning lady came. That night at 3 in the morning my water broke. It was a squirt with any move by me or the baby...not at all the gush I expected. I went back to bed until 8am and prayed that contractions would start on their own because I knew the doctors generally like to "meet the baby" within 24 hrs. of the water breaking due to risk of infection.
Contractions didn't start and I was placed on Pitocin at 2pm on Monday afternoon. I wondered why things weren't happening as nature intended, if there weren't medical help what was God's plan?? I thought of you and your faith and resolved that what was meant to be would be and that I was just along for the ride to bring a healthy baby boy into this world.
Things got hairy at about 1 in the morning around 11 hours after the contractions began. I was getting tired and having a difficult time resisting the urge to just push the baby out and be done with it (which was not an option because my cervix was only dialated to 8cm and pushing could have ruptured my uterus). The pain was intense with only 45 second contraction cycles. In that short amount of time I went from burning up to freezing like I was swimming in the Arctic. During this difficult 3 hour period (where I was stuck at 8cm without an epidural) you again popped into my mind. I don't know how to put it into words but I respect your grace under pressure. Cf has socked it to you but you manage very well. You empower people through your writing and you enjoy the little things in life. For some reason this comforted me in that difficult time.
I'm glad you're part of the site
So how are you?
All the best,
Lauren
-----
7-29-07
Lauren,
Wow. I am so touched and very moved by your words. Thank you for sharing with me how the whole thing went. Many of my friends who've had kids have also expressed how much they wanted things to go "as nature intended" and feel like they're somehow missing out on the experience if they don't deliver vaginally. I figure that the experience is really about seeing that little life for the first time and being able to hold that child in your arms. To oversimplify a metaphor, I guess I'd say that whether you take the elevator or the stairs, the point is that you arrive at the top floor.
I'm so glad that you have been comforted and encouraged by me in different ways. That's really all I want to be able to do in life--to be a blessing of sorts to anyone who crosses my path. It's interesting that you said "grace" under pressure. My middle name is Grace, and since Lauren means "victorious" I figure I should live up to my name.
Things are going pretty well here. As you saw on the forums I had a kick-butt great appt. this week. We went out to dinner tonight with my in-laws to celebrate a belated birthday for my husband. Good stuff. I've been getting a little bit more freelance work tossed in my direction, so it's nice to have something to keep me occupied during the day.
Thanks again for writing. Be sure to kiss the baby for me!
-Lauren
-----
9-11-07
Happy Birthday to you! I think of you a lot and pray for you whenever your name comes to mind. I hope you're having a wonderful birthday celebration. I know this year is extra special since it's your first birthday as a MOMMY! That's certainly reason to be joyful.
Consider yourself {hugged}, and give that sweet baby of yours a great big cuddle and a kiss.
Here's to many more years spent doing the things that make life worth living,
Lauren
-----
9-12-07
What is it about folded laundry that makes everything feel "together." I love it when laundry is folded and put away. I spent some time doing that on Monday and it just makes me feel quite settled. I love keeping a nice home for my husband
I hope the sleep training goes well! One of my dearest friends, Jen, called last week and told me "Hannah learned to roll over and sleep on her tummy!" Little Hannah has been having a lot of trouble sleeping through the night, and now it's not an issue! Funny how little things can make a difference.
Thanks for sharing a bit more about what your husband is up to. I'm sure glad you have each other. It's great to have a husband who is good at what he does. I hope all the preparation for the pharma job will pay off. I'm sure he'll find a position that's a great fit for all of you.
My husband started his new job last week. He's such a happier person now that he's back in a somewhat academic setting. (He got a job at UC San Diego with a research group there.) He's a natural brain, and his old job wasn't stimulating him enough.
As for me, I've got all the stimulation I can handle right now. Ha! I'm still working out and doing various writing projects. I've got a HUGE transcription project on my desk right now. 800+ pages! Wowzers! It's interesting stuff though, not too dry, which makes the work go faster.
Gotta run, the bunny needs some exercise and I need a snack.
It was good to hear from you!
-Lauren
-----
A REPLY FROM HER AFTER MY SON WAS FOUND TO HAVE 2 cF MUTATIONS
Hi Lauren,
I read your post and wanted to give you a great big hug. Your line "I thought I was a responsible CFer" got me. You ARE a responsible CFer. You've having your child tested now, and are taking the steps to care for him NOW. That's exactly what a responsible person does.
Please don't beat yourself up over this. (Easier said than done, I know.) You have a wonderful supportive husband, a good knowledge of CF, and are going to be great at anticipating what your child needs. You have the experience necessary to cope with this event in life.
Try not to worry yourself by playing the game of "If only" or "what if." Just as you do with your own health, take each day as it comes. God will give you the mercy and grace to help you in your time of need.
We are all here for you as well. You can do this. Give yourself time to adjust, and go ahead and cry. It's a good way to release frustration. You are an incredible young woman, and uniquely equipped for this battle. You can do it. God will help. My husband and I will be praying for your family so much.
Warmly,
Lauren
Here are some sweet pm's from your misses. My name is also Lauren. She was a great kid.
7-5-07
Hey girl,
Just wanted to say hi and let you know that I'm keeping you and the baby in my thoughts and prayers. I hope you're not too uncomfortable as you get closer to delivery day.
Best wishes,
Lauren
------
7-28-07
Well, hello there new mommy! How are you surviving? I spent time today with one of my college friends who told me she's expecting twins. After she left I starting thinking about and praying for all the gals I know who are pregnant or newly "mommied."
I understand if you're too tired to write back. I just wanted to let you know that you're being thought about.
Warmly,
Lauren
-------
7-28-07
FROM ME
Lauren, It was so ironic that you wrote me a message today because I was planning on getting online to write you back from your 7/5 note. It really made my day back earlier this month to get that message from you and I wanted to write to let you know how happy it made me.
I was at work on that Friday. What a weird feeling it was not knowing when the baby would arrive and what delivery would be like. I was excited and could barely concentrate. Reading your message and knowing others were thinking of us comforted me. Saturday I ran errands and then Sunday I took it easy and the cleaning lady came. That night at 3 in the morning my water broke. It was a squirt with any move by me or the baby...not at all the gush I expected. I went back to bed until 8am and prayed that contractions would start on their own because I knew the doctors generally like to "meet the baby" within 24 hrs. of the water breaking due to risk of infection.
Contractions didn't start and I was placed on Pitocin at 2pm on Monday afternoon. I wondered why things weren't happening as nature intended, if there weren't medical help what was God's plan?? I thought of you and your faith and resolved that what was meant to be would be and that I was just along for the ride to bring a healthy baby boy into this world.
Things got hairy at about 1 in the morning around 11 hours after the contractions began. I was getting tired and having a difficult time resisting the urge to just push the baby out and be done with it (which was not an option because my cervix was only dialated to 8cm and pushing could have ruptured my uterus). The pain was intense with only 45 second contraction cycles. In that short amount of time I went from burning up to freezing like I was swimming in the Arctic. During this difficult 3 hour period (where I was stuck at 8cm without an epidural) you again popped into my mind. I don't know how to put it into words but I respect your grace under pressure. Cf has socked it to you but you manage very well. You empower people through your writing and you enjoy the little things in life. For some reason this comforted me in that difficult time.
I'm glad you're part of the site
So how are you?
All the best,
Lauren
-----
7-29-07
Lauren,
Wow. I am so touched and very moved by your words. Thank you for sharing with me how the whole thing went. Many of my friends who've had kids have also expressed how much they wanted things to go "as nature intended" and feel like they're somehow missing out on the experience if they don't deliver vaginally. I figure that the experience is really about seeing that little life for the first time and being able to hold that child in your arms. To oversimplify a metaphor, I guess I'd say that whether you take the elevator or the stairs, the point is that you arrive at the top floor.
I'm so glad that you have been comforted and encouraged by me in different ways. That's really all I want to be able to do in life--to be a blessing of sorts to anyone who crosses my path. It's interesting that you said "grace" under pressure. My middle name is Grace, and since Lauren means "victorious" I figure I should live up to my name.
Things are going pretty well here. As you saw on the forums I had a kick-butt great appt. this week. We went out to dinner tonight with my in-laws to celebrate a belated birthday for my husband. Good stuff. I've been getting a little bit more freelance work tossed in my direction, so it's nice to have something to keep me occupied during the day.
Thanks again for writing. Be sure to kiss the baby for me!
-Lauren
-----
9-11-07
Happy Birthday to you! I think of you a lot and pray for you whenever your name comes to mind. I hope you're having a wonderful birthday celebration. I know this year is extra special since it's your first birthday as a MOMMY! That's certainly reason to be joyful.
Consider yourself {hugged}, and give that sweet baby of yours a great big cuddle and a kiss.
Here's to many more years spent doing the things that make life worth living,
Lauren
-----
9-12-07
What is it about folded laundry that makes everything feel "together." I love it when laundry is folded and put away. I spent some time doing that on Monday and it just makes me feel quite settled. I love keeping a nice home for my husband
I hope the sleep training goes well! One of my dearest friends, Jen, called last week and told me "Hannah learned to roll over and sleep on her tummy!" Little Hannah has been having a lot of trouble sleeping through the night, and now it's not an issue! Funny how little things can make a difference.
Thanks for sharing a bit more about what your husband is up to. I'm sure glad you have each other. It's great to have a husband who is good at what he does. I hope all the preparation for the pharma job will pay off. I'm sure he'll find a position that's a great fit for all of you.
My husband started his new job last week. He's such a happier person now that he's back in a somewhat academic setting. (He got a job at UC San Diego with a research group there.) He's a natural brain, and his old job wasn't stimulating him enough.
As for me, I've got all the stimulation I can handle right now. Ha! I'm still working out and doing various writing projects. I've got a HUGE transcription project on my desk right now. 800+ pages! Wowzers! It's interesting stuff though, not too dry, which makes the work go faster.
Gotta run, the bunny needs some exercise and I need a snack.
It was good to hear from you!
-Lauren
-----
A REPLY FROM HER AFTER MY SON WAS FOUND TO HAVE 2 cF MUTATIONS
Hi Lauren,
I read your post and wanted to give you a great big hug. Your line "I thought I was a responsible CFer" got me. You ARE a responsible CFer. You've having your child tested now, and are taking the steps to care for him NOW. That's exactly what a responsible person does.
Please don't beat yourself up over this. (Easier said than done, I know.) You have a wonderful supportive husband, a good knowledge of CF, and are going to be great at anticipating what your child needs. You have the experience necessary to cope with this event in life.
Try not to worry yourself by playing the game of "If only" or "what if." Just as you do with your own health, take each day as it comes. God will give you the mercy and grace to help you in your time of need.
We are all here for you as well. You can do this. Give yourself time to adjust, and go ahead and cry. It's a good way to release frustration. You are an incredible young woman, and uniquely equipped for this battle. You can do it. God will help. My husband and I will be praying for your family so much.
Warmly,
Lauren
7-5-07
Hey girl,
Just wanted to say hi and let you know that I'm keeping you and the baby in my thoughts and prayers. I hope you're not too uncomfortable as you get closer to delivery day.
Best wishes,
Lauren
------
7-28-07
Well, hello there new mommy! How are you surviving? I spent time today with one of my college friends who told me she's expecting twins. After she left I starting thinking about and praying for all the gals I know who are pregnant or newly "mommied."
I understand if you're too tired to write back. I just wanted to let you know that you're being thought about.
Warmly,
Lauren
-------
7-28-07
FROM ME
Lauren, It was so ironic that you wrote me a message today because I was planning on getting online to write you back from your 7/5 note. It really made my day back earlier this month to get that message from you and I wanted to write to let you know how happy it made me.
I was at work on that Friday. What a weird feeling it was not knowing when the baby would arrive and what delivery would be like. I was excited and could barely concentrate. Reading your message and knowing others were thinking of us comforted me. Saturday I ran errands and then Sunday I took it easy and the cleaning lady came. That night at 3 in the morning my water broke. It was a squirt with any move by me or the baby...not at all the gush I expected. I went back to bed until 8am and prayed that contractions would start on their own because I knew the doctors generally like to "meet the baby" within 24 hrs. of the water breaking due to risk of infection.
Contractions didn't start and I was placed on Pitocin at 2pm on Monday afternoon. I wondered why things weren't happening as nature intended, if there weren't medical help what was God's plan?? I thought of you and your faith and resolved that what was meant to be would be and that I was just along for the ride to bring a healthy baby boy into this world.
Things got hairy at about 1 in the morning around 11 hours after the contractions began. I was getting tired and having a difficult time resisting the urge to just push the baby out and be done with it (which was not an option because my cervix was only dialated to 8cm and pushing could have ruptured my uterus). The pain was intense with only 45 second contraction cycles. In that short amount of time I went from burning up to freezing like I was swimming in the Arctic. During this difficult 3 hour period (where I was stuck at 8cm without an epidural) you again popped into my mind. I don't know how to put it into words but I respect your grace under pressure. Cf has socked it to you but you manage very well. You empower people through your writing and you enjoy the little things in life. For some reason this comforted me in that difficult time.
I'm glad you're part of the site
So how are you?
All the best,
Lauren
-----
7-29-07
Lauren,
Wow. I am so touched and very moved by your words. Thank you for sharing with me how the whole thing went. Many of my friends who've had kids have also expressed how much they wanted things to go "as nature intended" and feel like they're somehow missing out on the experience if they don't deliver vaginally. I figure that the experience is really about seeing that little life for the first time and being able to hold that child in your arms. To oversimplify a metaphor, I guess I'd say that whether you take the elevator or the stairs, the point is that you arrive at the top floor.
I'm so glad that you have been comforted and encouraged by me in different ways. That's really all I want to be able to do in life--to be a blessing of sorts to anyone who crosses my path. It's interesting that you said "grace" under pressure. My middle name is Grace, and since Lauren means "victorious" I figure I should live up to my name.
Things are going pretty well here. As you saw on the forums I had a kick-butt great appt. this week. We went out to dinner tonight with my in-laws to celebrate a belated birthday for my husband. Good stuff. I've been getting a little bit more freelance work tossed in my direction, so it's nice to have something to keep me occupied during the day.
Thanks again for writing. Be sure to kiss the baby for me!
-Lauren
-----
9-11-07
Happy Birthday to you! I think of you a lot and pray for you whenever your name comes to mind. I hope you're having a wonderful birthday celebration. I know this year is extra special since it's your first birthday as a MOMMY! That's certainly reason to be joyful.
Consider yourself {hugged}, and give that sweet baby of yours a great big cuddle and a kiss.
Here's to many more years spent doing the things that make life worth living,
Lauren
-----
9-12-07
What is it about folded laundry that makes everything feel "together." I love it when laundry is folded and put away. I spent some time doing that on Monday and it just makes me feel quite settled. I love keeping a nice home for my husband
I hope the sleep training goes well! One of my dearest friends, Jen, called last week and told me "Hannah learned to roll over and sleep on her tummy!" Little Hannah has been having a lot of trouble sleeping through the night, and now it's not an issue! Funny how little things can make a difference.
Thanks for sharing a bit more about what your husband is up to. I'm sure glad you have each other. It's great to have a husband who is good at what he does. I hope all the preparation for the pharma job will pay off. I'm sure he'll find a position that's a great fit for all of you.
My husband started his new job last week. He's such a happier person now that he's back in a somewhat academic setting. (He got a job at UC San Diego with a research group there.) He's a natural brain, and his old job wasn't stimulating him enough.
As for me, I've got all the stimulation I can handle right now. Ha! I'm still working out and doing various writing projects. I've got a HUGE transcription project on my desk right now. 800+ pages! Wowzers! It's interesting stuff though, not too dry, which makes the work go faster.
Gotta run, the bunny needs some exercise and I need a snack.
It was good to hear from you!
-Lauren
-----
A REPLY FROM HER AFTER MY SON WAS FOUND TO HAVE 2 cF MUTATIONS
Hi Lauren,
I read your post and wanted to give you a great big hug. Your line "I thought I was a responsible CFer" got me. You ARE a responsible CFer. You've having your child tested now, and are taking the steps to care for him NOW. That's exactly what a responsible person does.
Please don't beat yourself up over this. (Easier said than done, I know.) You have a wonderful supportive husband, a good knowledge of CF, and are going to be great at anticipating what your child needs. You have the experience necessary to cope with this event in life.
Try not to worry yourself by playing the game of "If only" or "what if." Just as you do with your own health, take each day as it comes. God will give you the mercy and grace to help you in your time of need.
We are all here for you as well. You can do this. Give yourself time to adjust, and go ahead and cry. It's a good way to release frustration. You are an incredible young woman, and uniquely equipped for this battle. You can do it. God will help. My husband and I will be praying for your family so much.
Warmly,
Lauren
Here are some sweet pm's from your misses. My name is also Lauren. She was a great kid.
7-5-07
Hey girl,
Just wanted to say hi and let you know that I'm keeping you and the baby in my thoughts and prayers. I hope you're not too uncomfortable as you get closer to delivery day.
Best wishes,
Lauren
------
7-28-07
Well, hello there new mommy! How are you surviving? I spent time today with one of my college friends who told me she's expecting twins. After she left I starting thinking about and praying for all the gals I know who are pregnant or newly "mommied."
I understand if you're too tired to write back. I just wanted to let you know that you're being thought about.
Warmly,
Lauren
-------
7-28-07
FROM ME
Lauren, It was so ironic that you wrote me a message today because I was planning on getting online to write you back from your 7/5 note. It really made my day back earlier this month to get that message from you and I wanted to write to let you know how happy it made me.
I was at work on that Friday. What a weird feeling it was not knowing when the baby would arrive and what delivery would be like. I was excited and could barely concentrate. Reading your message and knowing others were thinking of us comforted me. Saturday I ran errands and then Sunday I took it easy and the cleaning lady came. That night at 3 in the morning my water broke. It was a squirt with any move by me or the baby...not at all the gush I expected. I went back to bed until 8am and prayed that contractions would start on their own because I knew the doctors generally like to "meet the baby" within 24 hrs. of the water breaking due to risk of infection.
Contractions didn't start and I was placed on Pitocin at 2pm on Monday afternoon. I wondered why things weren't happening as nature intended, if there weren't medical help what was God's plan?? I thought of you and your faith and resolved that what was meant to be would be and that I was just along for the ride to bring a healthy baby boy into this world.
Things got hairy at about 1 in the morning around 11 hours after the contractions began. I was getting tired and having a difficult time resisting the urge to just push the baby out and be done with it (which was not an option because my cervix was only dialated to 8cm and pushing could have ruptured my uterus). The pain was intense with only 45 second contraction cycles. In that short amount of time I went from burning up to freezing like I was swimming in the Arctic. During this difficult 3 hour period (where I was stuck at 8cm without an epidural) you again popped into my mind. I don't know how to put it into words but I respect your grace under pressure. Cf has socked it to you but you manage very well. You empower people through your writing and you enjoy the little things in life. For some reason this comforted me in that difficult time.
I'm glad you're part of the site
So how are you?
All the best,
Lauren
-----
7-29-07
Lauren,
Wow. I am so touched and very moved by your words. Thank you for sharing with me how the whole thing went. Many of my friends who've had kids have also expressed how much they wanted things to go "as nature intended" and feel like they're somehow missing out on the experience if they don't deliver vaginally. I figure that the experience is really about seeing that little life for the first time and being able to hold that child in your arms. To oversimplify a metaphor, I guess I'd say that whether you take the elevator or the stairs, the point is that you arrive at the top floor.
I'm so glad that you have been comforted and encouraged by me in different ways. That's really all I want to be able to do in life--to be a blessing of sorts to anyone who crosses my path. It's interesting that you said "grace" under pressure. My middle name is Grace, and since Lauren means "victorious" I figure I should live up to my name.
Things are going pretty well here. As you saw on the forums I had a kick-butt great appt. this week. We went out to dinner tonight with my in-laws to celebrate a belated birthday for my husband. Good stuff. I've been getting a little bit more freelance work tossed in my direction, so it's nice to have something to keep me occupied during the day.
Thanks again for writing. Be sure to kiss the baby for me!
-Lauren
-----
9-11-07
Happy Birthday to you! I think of you a lot and pray for you whenever your name comes to mind. I hope you're having a wonderful birthday celebration. I know this year is extra special since it's your first birthday as a MOMMY! That's certainly reason to be joyful.
Consider yourself {hugged}, and give that sweet baby of yours a great big cuddle and a kiss.
Here's to many more years spent doing the things that make life worth living,
Lauren
-----
9-12-07
What is it about folded laundry that makes everything feel "together." I love it when laundry is folded and put away. I spent some time doing that on Monday and it just makes me feel quite settled. I love keeping a nice home for my husband
I hope the sleep training goes well! One of my dearest friends, Jen, called last week and told me "Hannah learned to roll over and sleep on her tummy!" Little Hannah has been having a lot of trouble sleeping through the night, and now it's not an issue! Funny how little things can make a difference.
Thanks for sharing a bit more about what your husband is up to. I'm sure glad you have each other. It's great to have a husband who is good at what he does. I hope all the preparation for the pharma job will pay off. I'm sure he'll find a position that's a great fit for all of you.
My husband started his new job last week. He's such a happier person now that he's back in a somewhat academic setting. (He got a job at UC San Diego with a research group there.) He's a natural brain, and his old job wasn't stimulating him enough.
As for me, I've got all the stimulation I can handle right now. Ha! I'm still working out and doing various writing projects. I've got a HUGE transcription project on my desk right now. 800+ pages! Wowzers! It's interesting stuff though, not too dry, which makes the work go faster.
Gotta run, the bunny needs some exercise and I need a snack.
It was good to hear from you!
-Lauren
-----
A REPLY FROM HER AFTER MY SON WAS FOUND TO HAVE 2 cF MUTATIONS
Hi Lauren,
I read your post and wanted to give you a great big hug. Your line "I thought I was a responsible CFer" got me. You ARE a responsible CFer. You've having your child tested now, and are taking the steps to care for him NOW. That's exactly what a responsible person does.
Please don't beat yourself up over this. (Easier said than done, I know.) You have a wonderful supportive husband, a good knowledge of CF, and are going to be great at anticipating what your child needs. You have the experience necessary to cope with this event in life.
Try not to worry yourself by playing the game of "If only" or "what if." Just as you do with your own health, take each day as it comes. God will give you the mercy and grace to help you in your time of need.
We are all here for you as well. You can do this. Give yourself time to adjust, and go ahead and cry. It's a good way to release frustration. You are an incredible young woman, and uniquely equipped for this battle. You can do it. God will help. My husband and I will be praying for your family so much.
Warmly,
Lauren
7-5-07
Hey girl,
Just wanted to say hi and let you know that I'm keeping you and the baby in my thoughts and prayers. I hope you're not too uncomfortable as you get closer to delivery day.
Best wishes,
Lauren
------
7-28-07
Well, hello there new mommy! How are you surviving? I spent time today with one of my college friends who told me she's expecting twins. After she left I starting thinking about and praying for all the gals I know who are pregnant or newly "mommied."
I understand if you're too tired to write back. I just wanted to let you know that you're being thought about.
Warmly,
Lauren
-------
7-28-07
FROM ME
Lauren, It was so ironic that you wrote me a message today because I was planning on getting online to write you back from your 7/5 note. It really made my day back earlier this month to get that message from you and I wanted to write to let you know how happy it made me.
I was at work on that Friday. What a weird feeling it was not knowing when the baby would arrive and what delivery would be like. I was excited and could barely concentrate. Reading your message and knowing others were thinking of us comforted me. Saturday I ran errands and then Sunday I took it easy and the cleaning lady came. That night at 3 in the morning my water broke. It was a squirt with any move by me or the baby...not at all the gush I expected. I went back to bed until 8am and prayed that contractions would start on their own because I knew the doctors generally like to "meet the baby" within 24 hrs. of the water breaking due to risk of infection.
Contractions didn't start and I was placed on Pitocin at 2pm on Monday afternoon. I wondered why things weren't happening as nature intended, if there weren't medical help what was God's plan?? I thought of you and your faith and resolved that what was meant to be would be and that I was just along for the ride to bring a healthy baby boy into this world.
Things got hairy at about 1 in the morning around 11 hours after the contractions began. I was getting tired and having a difficult time resisting the urge to just push the baby out and be done with it (which was not an option because my cervix was only dialated to 8cm and pushing could have ruptured my uterus). The pain was intense with only 45 second contraction cycles. In that short amount of time I went from burning up to freezing like I was swimming in the Arctic. During this difficult 3 hour period (where I was stuck at 8cm without an epidural) you again popped into my mind. I don't know how to put it into words but I respect your grace under pressure. Cf has socked it to you but you manage very well. You empower people through your writing and you enjoy the little things in life. For some reason this comforted me in that difficult time.
I'm glad you're part of the site
So how are you?
All the best,
Lauren
-----
7-29-07
Lauren,
Wow. I am so touched and very moved by your words. Thank you for sharing with me how the whole thing went. Many of my friends who've had kids have also expressed how much they wanted things to go "as nature intended" and feel like they're somehow missing out on the experience if they don't deliver vaginally. I figure that the experience is really about seeing that little life for the first time and being able to hold that child in your arms. To oversimplify a metaphor, I guess I'd say that whether you take the elevator or the stairs, the point is that you arrive at the top floor.
I'm so glad that you have been comforted and encouraged by me in different ways. That's really all I want to be able to do in life--to be a blessing of sorts to anyone who crosses my path. It's interesting that you said "grace" under pressure. My middle name is Grace, and since Lauren means "victorious" I figure I should live up to my name.
Things are going pretty well here. As you saw on the forums I had a kick-butt great appt. this week. We went out to dinner tonight with my in-laws to celebrate a belated birthday for my husband. Good stuff. I've been getting a little bit more freelance work tossed in my direction, so it's nice to have something to keep me occupied during the day.
Thanks again for writing. Be sure to kiss the baby for me!
-Lauren
-----
9-11-07
Happy Birthday to you! I think of you a lot and pray for you whenever your name comes to mind. I hope you're having a wonderful birthday celebration. I know this year is extra special since it's your first birthday as a MOMMY! That's certainly reason to be joyful.
Consider yourself {hugged}, and give that sweet baby of yours a great big cuddle and a kiss.
Here's to many more years spent doing the things that make life worth living,
Lauren
-----
9-12-07
What is it about folded laundry that makes everything feel "together." I love it when laundry is folded and put away. I spent some time doing that on Monday and it just makes me feel quite settled. I love keeping a nice home for my husband
I hope the sleep training goes well! One of my dearest friends, Jen, called last week and told me "Hannah learned to roll over and sleep on her tummy!" Little Hannah has been having a lot of trouble sleeping through the night, and now it's not an issue! Funny how little things can make a difference.
Thanks for sharing a bit more about what your husband is up to. I'm sure glad you have each other. It's great to have a husband who is good at what he does. I hope all the preparation for the pharma job will pay off. I'm sure he'll find a position that's a great fit for all of you.
My husband started his new job last week. He's such a happier person now that he's back in a somewhat academic setting. (He got a job at UC San Diego with a research group there.) He's a natural brain, and his old job wasn't stimulating him enough.
As for me, I've got all the stimulation I can handle right now. Ha! I'm still working out and doing various writing projects. I've got a HUGE transcription project on my desk right now. 800+ pages! Wowzers! It's interesting stuff though, not too dry, which makes the work go faster.
Gotta run, the bunny needs some exercise and I need a snack.
It was good to hear from you!
-Lauren
-----
A REPLY FROM HER AFTER MY SON WAS FOUND TO HAVE 2 cF MUTATIONS
Hi Lauren,
I read your post and wanted to give you a great big hug. Your line "I thought I was a responsible CFer" got me. You ARE a responsible CFer. You've having your child tested now, and are taking the steps to care for him NOW. That's exactly what a responsible person does.
Please don't beat yourself up over this. (Easier said than done, I know.) You have a wonderful supportive husband, a good knowledge of CF, and are going to be great at anticipating what your child needs. You have the experience necessary to cope with this event in life.
Try not to worry yourself by playing the game of "If only" or "what if." Just as you do with your own health, take each day as it comes. God will give you the mercy and grace to help you in your time of need.
We are all here for you as well. You can do this. Give yourself time to adjust, and go ahead and cry. It's a good way to release frustration. You are an incredible young woman, and uniquely equipped for this battle. You can do it. God will help. My husband and I will be praying for your family so much.
Warmly,
Lauren
Here are some sweet pm's from your misses. My name is also Lauren. She was a great kid.
<br />
<br />7-5-07
<br />Hey girl,
<br />Just wanted to say hi and let you know that I'm keeping you and the baby in my thoughts and prayers. I hope you're not too uncomfortable as you get closer to delivery day.
<br />
<br />Best wishes,
<br />Lauren
<br />------
<br />7-28-07
<br />Well, hello there new mommy! How are you surviving? I spent time today with one of my college friends who told me she's expecting twins. After she left I starting thinking about and praying for all the gals I know who are pregnant or newly "mommied."
<br />
<br />I understand if you're too tired to write back. I just wanted to let you know that you're being thought about.
<br />
<br />Warmly,
<br />Lauren
<br />-------
<br />7-28-07
<br />FROM ME
<br />Lauren, It was so ironic that you wrote me a message today because I was planning on getting online to write you back from your 7/5 note. It really made my day back earlier this month to get that message from you and I wanted to write to let you know how happy it made me.
<br />
<br />I was at work on that Friday. What a weird feeling it was not knowing when the baby would arrive and what delivery would be like. I was excited and could barely concentrate. Reading your message and knowing others were thinking of us comforted me. Saturday I ran errands and then Sunday I took it easy and the cleaning lady came. That night at 3 in the morning my water broke. It was a squirt with any move by me or the baby...not at all the gush I expected. I went back to bed until 8am and prayed that contractions would start on their own because I knew the doctors generally like to "meet the baby" within 24 hrs. of the water breaking due to risk of infection.
<br />
<br />Contractions didn't start and I was placed on Pitocin at 2pm on Monday afternoon. I wondered why things weren't happening as nature intended, if there weren't medical help what was God's plan?? I thought of you and your faith and resolved that what was meant to be would be and that I was just along for the ride to bring a healthy baby boy into this world.
<br />
<br />Things got hairy at about 1 in the morning around 11 hours after the contractions began. I was getting tired and having a difficult time resisting the urge to just push the baby out and be done with it (which was not an option because my cervix was only dialated to 8cm and pushing could have ruptured my uterus). The pain was intense with only 45 second contraction cycles. In that short amount of time I went from burning up to freezing like I was swimming in the Arctic. During this difficult 3 hour period (where I was stuck at 8cm without an epidural) you again popped into my mind. I don't know how to put it into words but I respect your grace under pressure. Cf has socked it to you but you manage very well. You empower people through your writing and you enjoy the little things in life. For some reason this comforted me in that difficult time.
<br />
<br />I'm glad you're part of the site
<br />
<br />So how are you?
<br />
<br />All the best,
<br />Lauren
<br />-----
<br />7-29-07
<br />Lauren,
<br />Wow. I am so touched and very moved by your words. Thank you for sharing with me how the whole thing went. Many of my friends who've had kids have also expressed how much they wanted things to go "as nature intended" and feel like they're somehow missing out on the experience if they don't deliver vaginally. I figure that the experience is really about seeing that little life for the first time and being able to hold that child in your arms. To oversimplify a metaphor, I guess I'd say that whether you take the elevator or the stairs, the point is that you arrive at the top floor.
<br />
<br />I'm so glad that you have been comforted and encouraged by me in different ways. That's really all I want to be able to do in life--to be a blessing of sorts to anyone who crosses my path. It's interesting that you said "grace" under pressure. My middle name is Grace, and since Lauren means "victorious" I figure I should live up to my name.
<br />
<br />Things are going pretty well here. As you saw on the forums I had a kick-butt great appt. this week. We went out to dinner tonight with my in-laws to celebrate a belated birthday for my husband. Good stuff. I've been getting a little bit more freelance work tossed in my direction, so it's nice to have something to keep me occupied during the day.
<br />
<br />Thanks again for writing. Be sure to kiss the baby for me!
<br />
<br />-Lauren
<br />-----
<br />9-11-07
<br />Happy Birthday to you! I think of you a lot and pray for you whenever your name comes to mind. I hope you're having a wonderful birthday celebration. I know this year is extra special since it's your first birthday as a MOMMY! That's certainly reason to be joyful.
<br />
<br />Consider yourself {hugged}, and give that sweet baby of yours a great big cuddle and a kiss.
<br />
<br />Here's to many more years spent doing the things that make life worth living,
<br />
<br />Lauren
<br />-----
<br />9-12-07
<br />What is it about folded laundry that makes everything feel "together." I love it when laundry is folded and put away. I spent some time doing that on Monday and it just makes me feel quite settled. I love keeping a nice home for my husband
<br />
<br />I hope the sleep training goes well! One of my dearest friends, Jen, called last week and told me "Hannah learned to roll over and sleep on her tummy!" Little Hannah has been having a lot of trouble sleeping through the night, and now it's not an issue! Funny how little things can make a difference.
<br />
<br />Thanks for sharing a bit more about what your husband is up to. I'm sure glad you have each other. It's great to have a husband who is good at what he does. I hope all the preparation for the pharma job will pay off. I'm sure he'll find a position that's a great fit for all of you.
<br />
<br />My husband started his new job last week. He's such a happier person now that he's back in a somewhat academic setting. (He got a job at UC San Diego with a research group there.) He's a natural brain, and his old job wasn't stimulating him enough.
<br />
<br />As for me, I've got all the stimulation I can handle right now. Ha! I'm still working out and doing various writing projects. I've got a HUGE transcription project on my desk right now. 800+ pages! Wowzers! It's interesting stuff though, not too dry, which makes the work go faster.
<br />
<br />Gotta run, the bunny needs some exercise and I need a snack.
<br />
<br />It was good to hear from you!
<br />
<br />-Lauren
<br />-----
<br />A REPLY FROM HER AFTER MY SON WAS FOUND TO HAVE 2 cF MUTATIONS
<br />Hi Lauren,
<br />I read your post and wanted to give you a great big hug. Your line "I thought I was a responsible CFer" got me. You ARE a responsible CFer. You've having your child tested now, and are taking the steps to care for him NOW. That's exactly what a responsible person does.
<br />
<br />Please don't beat yourself up over this. (Easier said than done, I know.) You have a wonderful supportive husband, a good knowledge of CF, and are going to be great at anticipating what your child needs. You have the experience necessary to cope with this event in life.
<br />
<br />Try not to worry yourself by playing the game of "If only" or "what if." Just as you do with your own health, take each day as it comes. God will give you the mercy and grace to help you in your time of need.
<br />
<br />We are all here for you as well. You can do this. Give yourself time to adjust, and go ahead and cry. It's a good way to release frustration. You are an incredible young woman, and uniquely equipped for this battle. You can do it. God will help. My husband and I will be praying for your family so much.
<br />
<br />Warmly,
<br />Lauren
<br />
<br />7-5-07
<br />Hey girl,
<br />Just wanted to say hi and let you know that I'm keeping you and the baby in my thoughts and prayers. I hope you're not too uncomfortable as you get closer to delivery day.
<br />
<br />Best wishes,
<br />Lauren
<br />------
<br />7-28-07
<br />Well, hello there new mommy! How are you surviving? I spent time today with one of my college friends who told me she's expecting twins. After she left I starting thinking about and praying for all the gals I know who are pregnant or newly "mommied."
<br />
<br />I understand if you're too tired to write back. I just wanted to let you know that you're being thought about.
<br />
<br />Warmly,
<br />Lauren
<br />-------
<br />7-28-07
<br />FROM ME
<br />Lauren, It was so ironic that you wrote me a message today because I was planning on getting online to write you back from your 7/5 note. It really made my day back earlier this month to get that message from you and I wanted to write to let you know how happy it made me.
<br />
<br />I was at work on that Friday. What a weird feeling it was not knowing when the baby would arrive and what delivery would be like. I was excited and could barely concentrate. Reading your message and knowing others were thinking of us comforted me. Saturday I ran errands and then Sunday I took it easy and the cleaning lady came. That night at 3 in the morning my water broke. It was a squirt with any move by me or the baby...not at all the gush I expected. I went back to bed until 8am and prayed that contractions would start on their own because I knew the doctors generally like to "meet the baby" within 24 hrs. of the water breaking due to risk of infection.
<br />
<br />Contractions didn't start and I was placed on Pitocin at 2pm on Monday afternoon. I wondered why things weren't happening as nature intended, if there weren't medical help what was God's plan?? I thought of you and your faith and resolved that what was meant to be would be and that I was just along for the ride to bring a healthy baby boy into this world.
<br />
<br />Things got hairy at about 1 in the morning around 11 hours after the contractions began. I was getting tired and having a difficult time resisting the urge to just push the baby out and be done with it (which was not an option because my cervix was only dialated to 8cm and pushing could have ruptured my uterus). The pain was intense with only 45 second contraction cycles. In that short amount of time I went from burning up to freezing like I was swimming in the Arctic. During this difficult 3 hour period (where I was stuck at 8cm without an epidural) you again popped into my mind. I don't know how to put it into words but I respect your grace under pressure. Cf has socked it to you but you manage very well. You empower people through your writing and you enjoy the little things in life. For some reason this comforted me in that difficult time.
<br />
<br />I'm glad you're part of the site
<br />
<br />So how are you?
<br />
<br />All the best,
<br />Lauren
<br />-----
<br />7-29-07
<br />Lauren,
<br />Wow. I am so touched and very moved by your words. Thank you for sharing with me how the whole thing went. Many of my friends who've had kids have also expressed how much they wanted things to go "as nature intended" and feel like they're somehow missing out on the experience if they don't deliver vaginally. I figure that the experience is really about seeing that little life for the first time and being able to hold that child in your arms. To oversimplify a metaphor, I guess I'd say that whether you take the elevator or the stairs, the point is that you arrive at the top floor.
<br />
<br />I'm so glad that you have been comforted and encouraged by me in different ways. That's really all I want to be able to do in life--to be a blessing of sorts to anyone who crosses my path. It's interesting that you said "grace" under pressure. My middle name is Grace, and since Lauren means "victorious" I figure I should live up to my name.
<br />
<br />Things are going pretty well here. As you saw on the forums I had a kick-butt great appt. this week. We went out to dinner tonight with my in-laws to celebrate a belated birthday for my husband. Good stuff. I've been getting a little bit more freelance work tossed in my direction, so it's nice to have something to keep me occupied during the day.
<br />
<br />Thanks again for writing. Be sure to kiss the baby for me!
<br />
<br />-Lauren
<br />-----
<br />9-11-07
<br />Happy Birthday to you! I think of you a lot and pray for you whenever your name comes to mind. I hope you're having a wonderful birthday celebration. I know this year is extra special since it's your first birthday as a MOMMY! That's certainly reason to be joyful.
<br />
<br />Consider yourself {hugged}, and give that sweet baby of yours a great big cuddle and a kiss.
<br />
<br />Here's to many more years spent doing the things that make life worth living,
<br />
<br />Lauren
<br />-----
<br />9-12-07
<br />What is it about folded laundry that makes everything feel "together." I love it when laundry is folded and put away. I spent some time doing that on Monday and it just makes me feel quite settled. I love keeping a nice home for my husband
<br />
<br />I hope the sleep training goes well! One of my dearest friends, Jen, called last week and told me "Hannah learned to roll over and sleep on her tummy!" Little Hannah has been having a lot of trouble sleeping through the night, and now it's not an issue! Funny how little things can make a difference.
<br />
<br />Thanks for sharing a bit more about what your husband is up to. I'm sure glad you have each other. It's great to have a husband who is good at what he does. I hope all the preparation for the pharma job will pay off. I'm sure he'll find a position that's a great fit for all of you.
<br />
<br />My husband started his new job last week. He's such a happier person now that he's back in a somewhat academic setting. (He got a job at UC San Diego with a research group there.) He's a natural brain, and his old job wasn't stimulating him enough.
<br />
<br />As for me, I've got all the stimulation I can handle right now. Ha! I'm still working out and doing various writing projects. I've got a HUGE transcription project on my desk right now. 800+ pages! Wowzers! It's interesting stuff though, not too dry, which makes the work go faster.
<br />
<br />Gotta run, the bunny needs some exercise and I need a snack.
<br />
<br />It was good to hear from you!
<br />
<br />-Lauren
<br />-----
<br />A REPLY FROM HER AFTER MY SON WAS FOUND TO HAVE 2 cF MUTATIONS
<br />Hi Lauren,
<br />I read your post and wanted to give you a great big hug. Your line "I thought I was a responsible CFer" got me. You ARE a responsible CFer. You've having your child tested now, and are taking the steps to care for him NOW. That's exactly what a responsible person does.
<br />
<br />Please don't beat yourself up over this. (Easier said than done, I know.) You have a wonderful supportive husband, a good knowledge of CF, and are going to be great at anticipating what your child needs. You have the experience necessary to cope with this event in life.
<br />
<br />Try not to worry yourself by playing the game of "If only" or "what if." Just as you do with your own health, take each day as it comes. God will give you the mercy and grace to help you in your time of need.
<br />
<br />We are all here for you as well. You can do this. Give yourself time to adjust, and go ahead and cry. It's a good way to release frustration. You are an incredible young woman, and uniquely equipped for this battle. You can do it. God will help. My husband and I will be praying for your family so much.
<br />
<br />Warmly,
<br />Lauren
Hi Brad,
Lauren & I shared many PM's .. She always had a kind word & was an inspiration to many of us here at CF.com..
She will be greatly missed <img src="i/expressions/face-icon-small-sad.gif" border="0"> I feel blessed to have know her & loved that we both had a religious connection as many of us have here..
I hope you continue to pop in & let us know how you are doing..
Take care & God Bless you.. <img src="i/expressions/heart.gif" border="0"> joni
I just had to add this :
I was checking out some of our PM's to each other before typing this reply.. After posting it a PM popped up.. It was the last one i got from Lauren thanking me and asking me how i am !!! I love getting a sign like that .
Thank you Lauren <img src="i/expressions/heart.gif" border="0"> joni
Lauren & I shared many PM's .. She always had a kind word & was an inspiration to many of us here at CF.com..
She will be greatly missed <img src="i/expressions/face-icon-small-sad.gif" border="0"> I feel blessed to have know her & loved that we both had a religious connection as many of us have here..
I hope you continue to pop in & let us know how you are doing..
Take care & God Bless you.. <img src="i/expressions/heart.gif" border="0"> joni
I just had to add this :
I was checking out some of our PM's to each other before typing this reply.. After posting it a PM popped up.. It was the last one i got from Lauren thanking me and asking me how i am !!! I love getting a sign like that .
Thank you Lauren <img src="i/expressions/heart.gif" border="0"> joni
Hi Brad,
Lauren & I shared many PM's .. She always had a kind word & was an inspiration to many of us here at CF.com..
She will be greatly missed <img src="i/expressions/face-icon-small-sad.gif" border="0"> I feel blessed to have know her & loved that we both had a religious connection as many of us have here..
I hope you continue to pop in & let us know how you are doing..
Take care & God Bless you.. <img src="i/expressions/heart.gif" border="0"> joni
I just had to add this :
I was checking out some of our PM's to each other before typing this reply.. After posting it a PM popped up.. It was the last one i got from Lauren thanking me and asking me how i am !!! I love getting a sign like that .
Thank you Lauren <img src="i/expressions/heart.gif" border="0"> joni
Lauren & I shared many PM's .. She always had a kind word & was an inspiration to many of us here at CF.com..
She will be greatly missed <img src="i/expressions/face-icon-small-sad.gif" border="0"> I feel blessed to have know her & loved that we both had a religious connection as many of us have here..
I hope you continue to pop in & let us know how you are doing..
Take care & God Bless you.. <img src="i/expressions/heart.gif" border="0"> joni
I just had to add this :
I was checking out some of our PM's to each other before typing this reply.. After posting it a PM popped up.. It was the last one i got from Lauren thanking me and asking me how i am !!! I love getting a sign like that .
Thank you Lauren <img src="i/expressions/heart.gif" border="0"> joni
Hi Brad,
Lauren & I shared many PM's .. She always had a kind word & was an inspiration to many of us here at CF.com..
She will be greatly missed <img src="i/expressions/face-icon-small-sad.gif" border="0"> I feel blessed to have know her & loved that we both had a religious connection as many of us have here..
I hope you continue to pop in & let us know how you are doing..
Take care & God Bless you.. <img src="i/expressions/heart.gif" border="0"> joni
I just had to add this :
I was checking out some of our PM's to each other before typing this reply.. After posting it a PM popped up.. It was the last one i got from Lauren thanking me and asking me how i am !!! I love getting a sign like that .
Thank you Lauren <img src="i/expressions/heart.gif" border="0"> joni
Lauren & I shared many PM's .. She always had a kind word & was an inspiration to many of us here at CF.com..
She will be greatly missed <img src="i/expressions/face-icon-small-sad.gif" border="0"> I feel blessed to have know her & loved that we both had a religious connection as many of us have here..
I hope you continue to pop in & let us know how you are doing..
Take care & God Bless you.. <img src="i/expressions/heart.gif" border="0"> joni
I just had to add this :
I was checking out some of our PM's to each other before typing this reply.. After posting it a PM popped up.. It was the last one i got from Lauren thanking me and asking me how i am !!! I love getting a sign like that .
Thank you Lauren <img src="i/expressions/heart.gif" border="0"> joni
Hi Brad,
Lauren & I shared many PM's .. She always had a kind word & was an inspiration to many of us here at CF.com..
She will be greatly missed <img src="i/expressions/face-icon-small-sad.gif" border="0"> I feel blessed to have know her & loved that we both had a religious connection as many of us have here..
I hope you continue to pop in & let us know how you are doing..
Take care & God Bless you.. <img src="i/expressions/heart.gif" border="0"> joni
I just had to add this :
I was checking out some of our PM's to each other before typing this reply.. After posting it a PM popped up.. It was the last one i got from Lauren thanking me and asking me how i am !!! I love getting a sign like that .
Thank you Lauren <img src="i/expressions/heart.gif" border="0"> joni
Lauren & I shared many PM's .. She always had a kind word & was an inspiration to many of us here at CF.com..
She will be greatly missed <img src="i/expressions/face-icon-small-sad.gif" border="0"> I feel blessed to have know her & loved that we both had a religious connection as many of us have here..
I hope you continue to pop in & let us know how you are doing..
Take care & God Bless you.. <img src="i/expressions/heart.gif" border="0"> joni
I just had to add this :
I was checking out some of our PM's to each other before typing this reply.. After posting it a PM popped up.. It was the last one i got from Lauren thanking me and asking me how i am !!! I love getting a sign like that .
Thank you Lauren <img src="i/expressions/heart.gif" border="0"> joni
Hi Brad,
<br />
<br /> Lauren & I shared many PM's .. She always had a kind word & was an inspiration to many of us here at CF.com..
<br />
<br /> She will be greatly missed <img src="i/expressions/face-icon-small-sad.gif" border="0"> I feel blessed to have know her & loved that we both had a religious connection as many of us have here..
<br />
<br />I hope you continue to pop in & let us know how you are doing..
<br />
<br /> Take care & God Bless you.. <img src="i/expressions/heart.gif" border="0"> joni
<br />
<br />
<br /> I just had to add this :
<br />
<br /> I was checking out some of our PM's to each other before typing this reply.. After posting it a PM popped up.. It was the last one i got from Lauren thanking me and asking me how i am !!! I love getting a sign like that .
<br />
<br /> Thank you Lauren <img src="i/expressions/heart.gif" border="0"> joni
<br />
<br /> Lauren & I shared many PM's .. She always had a kind word & was an inspiration to many of us here at CF.com..
<br />
<br /> She will be greatly missed <img src="i/expressions/face-icon-small-sad.gif" border="0"> I feel blessed to have know her & loved that we both had a religious connection as many of us have here..
<br />
<br />I hope you continue to pop in & let us know how you are doing..
<br />
<br /> Take care & God Bless you.. <img src="i/expressions/heart.gif" border="0"> joni
<br />
<br />
<br /> I just had to add this :
<br />
<br /> I was checking out some of our PM's to each other before typing this reply.. After posting it a PM popped up.. It was the last one i got from Lauren thanking me and asking me how i am !!! I love getting a sign like that .
<br />
<br /> Thank you Lauren <img src="i/expressions/heart.gif" border="0"> joni