First (Sort of) Doctor Appointment

Dear Monkey,

We had our first doctor appointment today. Honestly, I'm not sure it really qualifies as a doctor appointment. After all, I didn't see our doctor, and I mostly just answered questions. I guess that's why it's called orientation.

Anyway, they took my medical history and such, weighed me (I am not friends with their scale), took my vitals, and sent me off for lab work. My vitals were good, and the lady I was seeing today seemed really interested in listening to my fears and concerns. That was reassuring. Apparently, we're now 6 weeks and 2 days into pregnancy, so we're almost past the first point of concern for me. (You had two siblings who went to Heaven before I got to hold them in my arms. One of them went to Heaven at 6 weeks and 5 days, so I have been holding my breathe -- not literally, of course -- until we pass that milestone.)

The nurse also scheduled another appointment for us. I'm not sure what we'll be doing then. She told me, but I was too nervous about remembering the date and such to let it sink in. I do remember her telling me that we usually wouldn't see our doctor until we reached 10 weeks, but that we're starting earlier because we need closer monitoring. We are so lucky to have the care we're getting. The nurse actually called the clinic chief and sent him/her all of our information to see if we needed to be seen even earlier than she was able to schedule, but since we seem to be doing well -- and yes, apparently, a lot of people really do experience a mysterious disappearance of morning sickness -- the chief said what was scheduled would be fine.

So, off to the lab we went. They took five vials of blood. I'm used to having blood drawn, but that seemed ridiculous. The lab tech said they were testing for "everything plus some." In other words, we're not taking any chances. Everyone wants to make sure you stay happy and healthy in there until it's time to come out.  Anyway, it made my arm throb and made me feel light-headed, but if it keeps you healthy, they can do it every week as far as I'm concerned. It's just blood. I'll make more.

But of course, the day wasn't without its funny moment. I decided to pick up our vitamins and such at the pharmacy before going to the lab because I'd parked closer to the lab. Of course, the pharmacy was busy, and I had to wait so long that I absolutely had to go pee near the end of my wait. Of course, a few minutes later, I walked into the lab and was handed a cup for a urine sample. I just thought, "You have got to be kidding me," because I thought there was no way I was going to be able to do it. But of course, in the minute it took me to walk to the bathroom, that all changed. You definitely do funny things to my body, Monkey!

I love you.
Love, Mommy