oh, the pain...

While I was pregnant, I would wake up some mornings and my finger would hurt. It was usually a different finger and would hurt for a day or 2 then go away. A few weeks later it would flare up again. I just thought it had to be the way I was sleeping so I never really gave it a second thought. Once Alex was born, the random pain stopped, but only for a few weeks. About 2 weeks ago the pain came back but this time it was in my knees and ankles. It wasn't too bad during the day, but in the middle of the night it hurt so bad to stand up. In addition to my legs hurting, the random finger pains, as well as new wrist and shoulder pains, came back.

Sunday, the pain started getting worse. My hands were swollen and my legs were aching. I called the doctor Monday and they got me in that afternoon. He was unsure what it was, but he said it could be a number of things. It could just be pregnancy related or it could be something more serious like rheumatoid arthritis, Lupus or something viral. He sent me to have blood work done to rule out the scary stuff. I got a call today that the anti-nuclear antibody test came back positive. This is the test that helps diagnose Lupus and rheumatoid arthritis. My next step is to see a specialist to have more test done to see if they can find out exactly what it is. Josh, of course, has been worried sick. I have been stressed because I feel like I wake up everyday just wondering what is going to hurt. Yesterday the pain was pretty bad all day long, but today it was much better. We are now in a wait and see period. I am waiting to hear from the specialist office to make an appointment. I'll keep you updated once we find out more information!

On a good note, Alex and I had such a fun day. We spent the morning at home then met a friend for lunch. Erika and her 8 month old son, Dane. He is such a cutie! After lunch we went to a jewelry store to window shop. I fell in love with a necklace (and mentioned it to Josh)! Then we went for coffee where Katie met us. It was great to hang out with another stay at home mom! Then Josh and I went to dinner then to run a couple of errands. Alex was so good! She is sleeping on Josh now with Cooper beside them. They look so cute! I'm in love!