Friday, July 11, 2008

Grandbaby #7

We are excited to announce that Grandbaby #7 has arrived!!

Tara went into labor on her own on July 5th, and was so relieved to avoid a C-section, which was a possibility.
WE were surprised that the baby weighed 8 lbs 13 oz, and she was able to get her out without too much trouble.
Kenya Kimberlee Alofipo will be her name. She has been a great baby so far, and the twins are adjusting in their own way. My mom was able to see the delivery before Chemo #6, and was feeling pretty normal.
She had her 6th treatment on Monday, and surprisingly she hasn't been in pain or nauseous yet! She has, however, been into the hospital every day for 3 hours each day to get fluids (for hydration) and some extra meds for nausea. It has made a big difference. She's also been taking Benadryl around the clock, per doctors orders, to help stay calm. It's also working well.
Next week the family is headed to Lake Powell for a week on a houseboat. We are all hoping that Mom can enjoy herself, even if she only stays for a few days. Baby Kenya will be staying at home with Tara of course!
Thanks again for all your comments, prayers, emails, cards, flowers, gifts, and visits! I hope you all know what a big difference they are making for my mom.

8 comments:

Lisa said...

What a beautiful baby!! So glad that all went well, and that your Mom was able to be there for the birth.
It's good to hear that you are feeling better Karen, hope that it continues!!
Have fun in Lake Powell,but don't get dehydrated!! It's easy to do in the heat...like you don't know that. Just can't resist giving that Motherly advice I guess!

Diane said...

Your granddaughter is so cute. There is nothing like cuddling with a new baby.
I am so grateful that you are doing well with this treatment Karen. We all loved spending time with you and Dale Sunday night. Your faith, attitude and determination will continue to get you through this. You are an inspiration to us all. We love you.

Anonymous said...

You look so beautiful in that picture with your grandbaby. She is beautiful as well. I hope that you will be able to go to lake powell and enjoy yourself. We will be there too!

Kristine said...

Congrats to Tara & Wayne! Congrats to Grandma & Grandpa Esplin (yes I mean you Karen & Dale)! Grandchildren are so much fun! It has be be something so wonderful in the middle of all the hard stuff! Thanks for sharing it all in your blog!

Anonymous said...

Karen,
Congratulations on grandbaby #7. I'm so happy for you (and Tara and Wayne, of course)and glad to hear that chemo #6 is done!
Love you,
Monique

westfam said...

I'm so glad this treatment went well. I'm happy to see that your doctor is finding ways to help you feel better. Your new granddaughter is beautiful. I believe cuddling with newborns is a great stress reliever! I could snuggle with our new little Anna for hours. I hope you're able to enjoy your trip to Lake Powell.
Love ya,
E

Laurie said...

What a beautiful little baby girl...aren't babies the best...I feel like I haven't had much time to snuggle with ours....I've got to make more time for that :)...so fun to visit with you the other night....you are a fighter....enjoy Lake Powell...nothing like the beautiful evenings with the moon shinning on the lake :)...love you dear, our thoughts and prayers continue to be with you.

J-Lo said...

Karen,
I saw Krystal and Jeff at a wedding reception this week and it was SO good to see them. Krystal gave me an update and I wanted to let you know that I'm thinking about you and hoping that all continues to go well.
Love,
Jenny