Tuesday, October 28, 2008

Welcome Brynn Lynda!

Brynn Lynda was born yesterday, October 27th at 5:15 PM, weighing in at a monstrous 1 lb, 4 oz and measuring 11 inches long. I began contractions early that morning, and although the doctor gave me lots of medication to stave off labor, little Brynn was determined to make her grand entrance immediately.

By the time the doctor arrived to check the size of my cervix, the baby's head had already passed through the pelvis and was coming down the birth canal. About 20 minutes later, we had a beautiful baby girl.

I was nervous, naturally, during my contractions but my dear sweet husband helped so much. For those that are not familiar with my religion, we believe that men who live the commandments of God to the best of their ability can pronounce blessings through the power of the priesthood (or Power of God), much like the apostles and early church members were able to do. These blessings include blessings of healing and strength, just as the disciples modeled for us. I hardly dare utter the details of the sweet blessing my husband gave to both me and to Brynn--and could not even attempt to describe the Spirit that settled in the room--but it will suffice to say that I still have every confidence Brynn will be just fine at the end of this long fight ahead. Although Matt was worried his blessing would be biased, rather than pronouncing the will of God as he should do, the Lord clearly calmed his nerves and I got to see him become a bigger man than I've ever known him to be. I'm so lucky to call him my husband.

Currently, Brynn is expected to be in the NICU for approximately 3-4 months but of course everything depends on her. She is already surprising all the doctors and nurses. For example, every baby is given a score to "grade" their color when they are born as an indication of their health. 10 is the highest and is practically NEVER given--even to very healthy full term babies. My NICU nurse said she's only seen two full term babies ever receive a 10. Brynn, however, at only 25 weeks, got an 8! She pinked right up after a tiny, precious little cry--a cry that no one thought she'd have the lung power to make.

Even still, the nurses are quick to remind us that most new babies do pretty well for the first three days or so and then after the "honeymoon" period, as they call it, they'll show their true colors. Usually the road is long, uncertain, and has lots of ups and downs before any ups become permanent. So, I guess we'll just have to be content at this point to take it one day at a time.

I am doing well, also. I felt pretty crummy immediately after the delivery but this morning I have much of my normal energy back. I had no idea what to expect in the way of breastmilk at this early stage, either, but my nurse reassured me that sometimes it takes even full-term moms three days to really produce more than a few drops. After 15 minutes, however, I had over 40 ccs, which was more than an ounce. When the nurse came in to collect my "drops" with some tiny syringes, she exclaimed, "Oh my goodness! These little syringes definitely won't do! I'll be right back!" I only wish I could describe the look on her face. Needless to say, with the rate that little Brynn is eating, I've already produced enough to feed her for several days, or maybe even weeks.

Again, thanks for all your prayers. We all feel like Brynn has angels watching over her, and God has given a gigantic measure of peace to Mom and Dad, too. The emotions we've experienced, the closeness we feel, and the overwhelming love we've had have all made this an indescribably sweet time in our lives.

Love,
Natalie

16 comments:

Emily said...

Welcome, little Brynn!
I've been checking your blog periodically since yesterday and I'm in tears (very happy tears!) after reading this post. We feel awed to watch each miracle in your family. Congratulations on the birth of a sweet daughter.
Love, Emily (and Dennis)

Lori said...

Congratulations on your little and I mean "LITTLE" bundle of joy. We are happy that she is doing well so far. My husband was touched yesterday by how strong the presence of the Spirit was with all of you. May the Lord continue to be with all of you and bless you. Oh and Welcome to the rough and bumpy world of Parenthood. We love you!

Cheryl said...

Congratulations Matt & Natalie. I always feel the spirit wash over me when I read what you have posted. Thanks for sharing this sweet time in your lives with us. We love you.

Murray Ohana said...

We just heard the news of Brynn's birth. Your sweet family are in our thoughts and prayers. We will be checking your blog to see how things progress. Love, Jason, Rachel, Cole, Aidan, and Sadie

Marie said...

Congratulations! A 1 pound baby?! She must have been a piece of cake coming out! :) I bet she's beautiful! You guys will be wonderful parents.

tristanandtricia said...

Congratulations to you both! We've been thinking of you all, all night and day since Matt called last night. We are happy to hear that things are going so well so far. Thank you for the updates, we'll keep checking back.
Love, Tristan and Tricia

The Ransoms said...

Congratulations on your new little girl! You two are such good parents already as evident with the love you have for your daughter. I know how long you've waited for her and I'm just so happy for you! I can't wait to see you in December.

Erica said...

We are thinking of your sweet little girl. You are all in our thoughts and prayers. I know that Heavenly Father is watching out for you. Congratulations. We can't wait to see some pictures of her!

janet said...

Matt and Natalie
We've been thinking about you nonstop since we heard that little Brynn wanted to come so early. You have been in our prayers. Congratulations on your little angel and for the miracle of getting her here. Matt's smile (at Holly's home) when he told us of the pregnancy was so sweet and told us how excited he was for your new family status. Your words describing Matt's blessing were inspirational. Much love to you both and to your precious new bundle. Dale & Janet

HTF said...

Congratulations, guys. I was so glad to read how well you're doing. Like everyone else says, you're in our prayers. Brynn is lucky to have such great parents!
Love,
Scott Pope

TiAnn said...

Natalie,
We're so glad to hear that little Brynn has had such a good start. I'm so impressed with your faith and positive attitude, and I know heavenly father blesses those who keep such a good perspective. We love your family and you're all in our prayers.

lslongmore said...

Congratulations! I'm glad Brynn is doing so well. How long are YOU in the hospital? Let me know if you need anything--really, I'd be happy to help with ANYTHING!
Love you guys!
Rosey

Angela said...

Happy Birthday, Brynn!!! I am soooo glad to hear your little one is doing so well, she sounds like a fighter. Do you have the ability to post any pictures of her? I bet she's adorable. Congratulations, Natalie! You and Matt will be tremendous parents. Do you know how long you'll be in the hospital?
Angela Augur

Matt and Tommi +4 said...

Congratulations! We are glad you are all doing so well considering the circumstances. You guys are an inspiration. We love you and we're praying for you.

Dana said...

What a sweet little baby! i am so happy for you guys. You write so elequently. Thank you for keeping us up to date on how she is doing. Love you guys.

Danyelle Ferguson said...

I'm glad she's here safe and sound. Congrats!