Week 34

We're just about ready for BL to be born and become a real member of our household! This morning, we went to a 4-hour childbirth class to learn about labor and delivery. John almost didn't go because he's sick and didn't want to infect all the other pregnant women, but we decided he would probably be able to keep his germs under control! We were almost certainly the youngest ones there. We learned about all the different choices you can make, as well as all the outcomes that really aren't under your control at all. It surprised me that only one other woman besides me said she was not planning to have an epidural. I may end up having one in the end of course, but it seems a little odd for the majority of first-time moms not to even give themselves the chance. But given that I'm going to try not to have one, it was very helpful to us to also learn different breathing/relaxation techniques. I thought it was good that your "coach" (that would be John) really has a role in all of them. We're supposed to practice them every night, but we might feel too silly, especially when there's no pain.

We also picked up a few other baby things that we wanted to have before the baby gets here: diapers, a diaper pail, diaper bag, and some nursing supplies. I hope I don't have too much trouble nursing...it actually seems pretty complicated sometimes! No matter how much I read, it seems like something I won't really understand until I do it. I'm a little scared of getting too tired...we did get a breast pump so that maybe John can feed her sometimes and let me sleep a little longer, but I know I probably still can't expect to get a full night's sleep. Thank goodness my schedule is so flexible!

We also saw the movie "Juno" last night. I did like it, and of course I teared up during the birth scene. Initially I was afraid it would take the whole pregnancy thing too lightly for me in my present state, but it did a great job of dealing with that subject, in my opinion. John and I both recommend it. We were commenting afterward that the ability to just go to a movie at 9pm on a Friday night on a whim is one that we really won't have very much longer at all.

Post-shower-weekend

Thanks to all who came to BL's shower! We loved seeing everybody, and she is such a lucky little girl to have so many people who care for her. We got lots of gear, clothes, books, and toys so that we'll be all ready when she gets here. Yesterday we rearranged the apartment and set up her bassinet, filled up her dresser, and now just about all that's missing is her!

I seem to be getting slower by the day, even though I still don't really look like a beached whale. It's getting harder to get up, roll over, etc. also. I weigh 145 pounds! Braxton-Hicks contractions have started...they don't hurt, but they do feel a little uncomfortable. Soon we'll visit a pediatrician and take a tour of the hospital. Those last few weeks are going to feel so long, just waiting...

Week 31

The list of things I have trouble doing is getting longer! I told John I can't do the dishes anymore because my belly forces me away from the sink so I have to bend over awkwardly to reach the water. How unfortunate. :) Also lying on my back is pretty much completely out now...sleeping in general is less comfortable. Last night BL kicked something that quite startled me and I reacted rather visibly...I hope that doesn't happen while I'm teaching!

We went to the doctor on Monday to check on things. Her little heart was beating nice and strong, and it seems her head is already pointed down, which I think is good...the doctor said she probably won't turn back. Now the appointments are once every two weeks. This week we'll call a pediatric practice and also try to arrange a tour of the hospital, so we'll know what to do when the big moment comes!