Bumpdate: 38 Weeks

Here we are, the last weekend in March, and it has flown by! I can't believe that in a few short days we will be in April: the month our baby will be born!  Looking back, I feel like this entire pregnancy has just flown by! 

How Far Along?

38 Weeks!  At this point we are at the "any day now" stage and it is so hard to believe that!

Doctor, Doctor!

I am still going in for NSTs every Monday and Thursday with a biophysical on Friday.  Like I suspected, the drop in fluid from 8.6 to 6.9 was alarming so after my NST on Monday I was sent for an emergency biophysical with the doctor telling me if my fluid had dropped any lower that I would be induced.  I went home, showered, packed last minute things, and Sean and I headed to the hospital, completely expecting to be induced! Well, lo and behold, my fluid was up to a 10!  So, we went home.  I felt a mixture of disappointment because I thought we would be meeting our girl soon and relief that I had more time to get ready and she had some more time to develop and grow!

The following Thursday at my NST baby girl just was NOT moving like she normally did which made the doctor concerned so I was sent for ANOTHER emergency biophysical.  Thank goodness, baby girl passed with flying colors and my fluid was up to a 14! God is good! =)

Symptoms?

Same ole symptoms as previous weeks! I am up about every hour to pee/roll over/get comfortable.  Rolling over/getting up is a chore.  I think I am getting bigger by the minute.  One symptom that I have had but do not believe I have mentioned yet is that I cannot breathe!  When I lay down, whether on my side, back, propped up, etc... it feels like someone is sitting on my chest! This has made sleep and naps very difficult!  I get out of breath easily walking and talking as well!  

Any new cravings?

It took me until about the 4th time going into the Culvers drive though to realize that I was craving their burgers and cheese curds... I have indulged this craving quite a bit. 

Labor Signs?

Nada! Still experiencing braxton hicks but that it it! I was checked on Thursday and I am dilated to ZERO with a very very high cervix! Oye... this baby girl has us thinking she will be early and then will end up being late! 

How am I feeling?

I feel ready.  Everything is done and ready to go, now we are just waiting for baby girl! I have 4 days left of work before Spring Break/beginning of my maternity leave.  Bags are packed.  Nursery is completed.  I am ready to meet this little one!!    On the other hand, I am still in complete denial that I will actually have to experience labor... 

How is Sean feeling?

Sean has his Spring Break this coming week and for weeks he has been saying, "Just wait until after my spring break! I want 1 more week of sleeping in!"  Today, he informed me that he doesn't care at all about his Spring Break anymore, he just wants her here.  Melt my heart... 

Best moment this week?

We celebrated 2 years of marriage by completing our registries! We had our 9 year dating anniversary.  We finished the nursery! My dad put in some shelving in the closet for us and we got our glider and now it is 100% done (with the exception of a few empty frames that will be filled after she is born/her name that will go above her crib).

Looking forward to?

Spring Break and baby girl's arrival of course!!!  Easter is coming soon and it will either be our first holiday with our sweet girl, or our last holiday without her.  Either way, we can't wait!

Bumpdate: Weeks 36 & 37

How's Mom Feeling?

I am feeling very large and very pregnant!  I still generally feel "good." I move pretty well and still can do "a lot" but my feet and hands are perpetually swollen, my back hurts, and I am just plain ole large.  My face is pretty puffy and I am looking forward to getting some version of my pre baby body back! But, all of the insecurity and aches/pains are 110% worth it for this baby girl!  

Doctor, Doctor!

 I had a growth scan during my 35th week which I thought was okay since the tech said she was measuring ahead but on the day of my baby shower (36 weeks) I had my weekly appointment and was sent for an emergency ultrasound and NST because the growth scan was showing low fluid.  They want fluid levels at a 10 and I was at an 8.6.  Not awful, but something to watch. I now go to the doctor every Monday and Thursday for a non stress test/prenatal visit.  I also get a biophysical ( ultrasound measuring weight, tone, fluid, and movement of baby) every Friday.  My NSTs have gone well so far- baby is doing great! I had my first biophysical yesterday and baby passed but my fluid had dropped from an 8.6 to a 7 in 1 week.  That seemed like a big drop to me so I am eager to talk to the doctor when I go in on Monday.  

Fears/Worries/ Emotions

I have been moodier lately which I can attribute to hormones and stress.  I still feel like there is a lot to get done and time is running out quickly!  The stress of low fluid levels and wondering if the baby is okay gets to me.  I sometimes have moments of panic where I feel like I am not ready to be a mom.  Luckily, those moments are calmed with prayer and remembering how amazing motherhood is going to be.  

How's Dad Doing?

When I expressed my fears about a new baby one night he told me, "Aside from sleep, I am just excited!"  His laid back, excited, calm manner is exactly what this worry wart momma needs!

Movement

I feel baby girl's every stretch and roll.  I often feel knees and elbows sticking out of my right side and a hard lump when her butt sticks out near my left ribs!  She is definitely running out of room in there!

Baby Girl

She is head down and has been since at least 28 weeks.  The last 3 ultrasound she has been in the exact same position, sleeping, with her hand by her face.  So cute! As of yesterday, she is weighing in at 6 lbs, 9 oz!  Keep growing baby girl!

Labor Signs?

Still just braxton hicks and occasional cramping! Nothing much else! We did go to a breastfeeding class and tour the labor and delivery unit today-  it made it all feel very real seeing the rooms we are going to be in very soon! 

Best Moments:

I had my baby shower which was so beautiful! My mom, sister, and aunt worked so hard and it paid off! There were so many small and special touches everywhere! It was so great to see so many people.  Everyone was so kind and generous!  My students and their parents threw me a surprise shower as well! The kids were so excited and did such a great job!   We also had our maternity pictures ! The first try it ended up being very windy and cold so we tried again on a perfect 75 degree day! They turned out so great! 

Looking Forward To...

Our baby girl's arrival! With all these fluid issues, my gut is saying she is coming early! Sean and I are celebrating our 2 year wedding anniversary tomorrow and our 9 year dating anniversary Tuesday as well!

 

Bumpdate: 35 Weeks

How far along?:

35 weeks! 

Maternity Clothes:

I can ONLY fit in maternity clothes and some of those don't fit anymore... yikes! 

Stretch Marks:

Still just the two small ones on my stomach!

Sleep:

Back to waking up every 1.5-2 hours a night! I go to sleep around 9:30 and am up a lot.  I am always tired but not as exhausted as you would think!

Best Moment of the Week:

Setting up the crib! We had some crib drama initially- we had ordered a crib back when I was 17 weeks pregnant and it has sat in its box in our front room.  We did not want to open it until the room was painted and we were ready to set it up.  The second coat was put on the room and we were getting ready to set up the crib when one piece is majorly bent... ugh! We call Walmart and since it is past the 90 days return date they can't refund us AND the crib is out of stock/discontinued! Cue major tears! Luckily, after another phone call Walmart is going to refund us the full price for the crib, we ordered another from Target and it was on our porch 2 days later! It looks so pretty in her room! =)

Miss Anything?:

I miss cuddling with Sean! It isn't so easy anymore.. I tend to need a lot more space/get uncomfortable very easily!

Movement:

Still lots- no more kicks and pokes though! Her movements are all rolls or body parts sticking out! Her butt stucks out often near my left side and her feet sometimes stick out under my right ribs or way over on my right side.  I swear I have even felt her little toes a few times!  Her movements are starting to get slightly uncomfortable but I really still love them!

Food Cravings:

Pizza hut still at the beginning of the week... and Reeses!! 

Anything Make You Queasy or Sick?:

I did "throw up" a few times.  Intense nausea came on a few times very suddenly and while I didn't full on puke, there was some throwing up.  Right after though I am perfectly fine.

The Bump?:

Still big! My doctor said I look great but am measuring a tad small so he ordered a growth ultrasound to make sure she is growing okay and that fluid levels are good.

Gender:

Girl!!!!!

Labor Sign:

Still having some braxton hicks.

Belly Button In or Out?

Still in- I don't know if it will pop out but it definitely is veryyy shallow. 

Wedding Rings On or Off?

Off... I miss my rings! 

Happy or Moody Most of the Time?

The beginning of this week was VERY emotional for me! I had many tearful moments of feeling not ready and worried that she will come early and things won't be done.  I felt like I had so much to do.  I then spiraled even further feeling like I knew nothing about babies... ahh. Sean was very comforting and after praying and a few days I feel much calmer!  

Looking Forward To?

My shower! My shower is next Saturday and I cannot wait! I am going to pamper myself a bit too! I have a prenatal massage certificate that Sean got me for Christmas that I plan on using Friday and am going to get a pedicure! It is much needed after this Winter! I am also loving this warmer weather coming up! I have the growth ultrasound Thursday and am really looking forward to seeing my baby girl again! 

Bumpdate: 34 Weeks

How far along?:

34 Weeks! 8.5 months! What???

Maternity Clothes:

I can only fit in maternity clothes at this point and even some of those are getting too small..

Stretch Marks:

Still just the two small ones on my stomach!

Sleep:

A tad better than previous weeks! I had a few nights of only waking up twice in a 7 hour span.  That felt marvelous!

Best Moment of the Week:

The week has been relatively mediocre but I really enjoyed buying some adorable headbands for this sweet girl! I haven't bought too much in the clothing/accessory department but was browsing my Jane app and just had to! I can't wait until they come in the mail!

Miss Anything?:

I miss moving freely, bending over, going from sitting to standing without help, etc.  

Movement:

Lots! Lots for me at least- I still think she is a pretty laid back baby! She never keeps me up at night and she moves a lot but from what I hear from other women, he "a lot" still is not that much! Regardless, there are not really anymore "kicks" so much as rolls.  I am pretty sure she is head down as I feel what I think are little feet sticking out near my ribs- and I definitely feel her under my ribs when I am seated.

Food Cravings:

Pizza Hut pepperoni pizza and bread sticks- I MAY have indulged a couple times this week.

Anything Make You Queasy or Sick?:

Same as last week- a few bouts of nausea here and there but not necessarily triggered by anything in particular.  

The Bump?:

Large.. just large.  I feel like my weekly pics make me look bigger than I am, but maybe that is wishful thinking! 

Gender:

Girl!!!!!

Labor Sign:

I am almost positive that I am experiencing braxton hicks the last couple of weeks. I will be walking and kind  of have to bend over  a tad because my stomach gets so tight.  It isn't painful but it is uncomfortable. I also have had some period like cramping periodically.   

Belly Button In or Out?

Still in- I don't know if it will pop out but it definitely is veryyy shallow. 

Wedding Rings On or Off?

Off- they still fit at times but can be difficult to get off by the end of the day so I'd rather be safe with it. 

Happy or Moody Most of the Time?

Happy still!

Looking Forward To?

We are putting the finishing coat of paint on the nursery today, setting up the crib, and this month we have my baby shower as well as maternity pictures, prenatal massage, and Sean and I are celebrating our anniversary (dating and wedding!)! 

Bumpdate: 33 Weeks

Baby:

Baby has been hiccuping for awhile now but I felt it for the first time this week! Sean felt her little hiccups as well- so cute!  I am getting the feeling that she is a very laid back baby, at least while in the womb.  She isn't a huge mover and tends to just chill most of the day; reminds me of her daddy! =)

Mom:

Same symptoms, aches, and pains as previous week! My morning sickness seems to have returned a bit.  That on top of acid reflux hasn't been too great.  I get sudden feelings of incredibly intense nausea that make me run to the bathroom.  I have only thrown up once but they come on surprisingly and are very unpleasant! I am definitely starting to feel that 3rd trimester uncomfortableness I hear about.  It is manageable but I am happy to be nearing the end here.. ]

Dad:

Sean is a champ.  He has been so helpful and supportive.  He looks at headbands and outfits with me without complaining.  He gives me a back massage almost every night.  He is really going to be such a great dad!

Cravings:

Strawberries and oatmeal!

BH:

I began having braxton hicks periodically this week! I didn't recognize it at first but now I am almost positive I am!

Check-ups:

I have 1 more 2 week appointment and then I am down to weekly doctor visits! I can't believe we are already at that point! Baby is doing great and measuring exactly on track- I was told I must be taking great care of myself =)

Best Moment This Week:

My coworkers threw me a shower at work.  It was so kind of them and they gave me so many wonderful things and made me feel so special.  The cake was delicious as well! =) 

Nursery:

We have made more progress! My dad came over and he and Sean put on the first coat of paint! It needs one more coat and then we can finally put the crib up and get decorating!

Baby Purchases:

I bought little girl some adorable summer outfits I saw on clearance.  I also splurged and started investing in her headband supply! I can't wait until they come in the mail!  I ordered my Solly Baby Wrap as well which shouldn't be in for awhile but I am excited to get it and use it when baby girl is here!

I can't believe 33 weeks have come and gone! Baby girl will be here before we know it! I cannot wait to meet her!!

Bumpdate: 32 Weeks

Baby:

Baby girl is moving and grooving! She sticks her little limbs out and sometimes it is painful but mostly, I love it! I can't help but imagine touching and kissing her sweet little feet and hands when she is finally here! 

Blaghhh

I am okay.  I see and read what other women experience and I know I am pretty lucky.  That being said... I still have awful acid reflux.  It is getting to the point where I max out on tums and zantac and just want to cry.  There have been a few times that it has gotten so bad that I have to go into the bathroom because I am so sure I am going to puke.  

Sleep

Sleep is frustrating.  I had 1 night this week where I had a 4 hour stretch of not waking up and it felt so nice! Other then that 1 time, I am up every single hour- 1.5 hours.  It is frustrating and I often wake up for the day exhausted and crabby.  I know it is probably my body preparing me for life with a newborn but I wish it hadn't started preparing me so early.. especially since this has been going on for months.  

Aches and Pains

My back is very sore by the end of the night and I fall asleep with a heating back which seems to help.  I have a prenatal massage gift certificate that Sean got me for Christmas and plan on making that appointment very soon!  This is not necessarily an ache or pain but I have started experiencing hot flashes- usually in the middle of teaching.  I sweat and shake and no amount of open windows in the middle of winter help.  I also had my 5th cold in the last couple of months, mild, but still there.  

Nesting

I was talking with my sister about how anxious I am to get things ready; nursery, maternity leave, hospital bags... and she informed me that I am nesting.  It hadn't even occurred to me that this feeling of anxiety and need to  get everything done was nesting! So hey, I'm nesting! I just wish I had the energy and lack of soreness to let me accomplish all the cleaning and organizing I want to do in the house!

Nursery

We have a color picked and bought! There is no turning back now! The process of picking a color was frustrating but after running through all my choices, we chose the first color we originally sampled! We have the room primed and are hoping to get it painted with my dad's help this coming weekend.  As soon as the walls are dried, the crib is being set up and then it will just be a slow process of decorating and waiting for my shower!

so many options! 2 more were added after this picture was taken...

Snoring

I have snored periodically ever since I became pregnant but nothing like when I have a cold.  Since I have a had some version of a cold for the majority of the last 2 months, I have been snoring a lot.  Sean is such a trooper, but we are both hoping that goes away once the baby is born!

Nails

I hear nails are supposed to be long and strong because of prenatals, but this past week my nails have all been cracking and breaking and seem so brittle! I am not a fan!

Thoughts and Feelings

If I am being honest, this whole pregnancy, the idea of having my own child has seemed very distant.  I have been so excited and day dreaming but it has been so hard to picture how I will feel when I hold MY baby and when she is actually here.  Lately though, I have been getting glimpses and moments where I can picture her and imagine what it will be like and it feels so real.  It is so surreal that she will be my baby and not someone else's baby but occasionally, I feel it.  I picture her soft baby skin and I imagine her in our home and I am so excited.  I have wanted to be a mom for as long as I can remember and now I will have this precious little girl.  I already love her so much and I can't imagine how much I will love her when she is actually in my arms.  

Also, oh my bump.  I look back at pictures of what I thought was my bump and wow.. nothing there.  Plus... fat face much... oye... 14 weeks compared to 32 weeks... the weight gain is real people.  

Bumpdate: 31 weeks

How Far Along:  

Well, even though I just posted my 29 and 30 week update 2 days ago,  and here I am at 31 Weeks! We are officially in the single digit week countdown- ~9 weeks to go!! I can't believe it!

Stretch Marks: 

Same 2 teeny marks near my belly button and I hope no more show up!

Belly:

Growing... and growing.. and growing...

Sleep:  

Same ole, same ole! Although, one night this week I woke up twice as opposed to 4-5 times and wow! I felt so much more rested! 

Best Moment This Week:

Celebrating my birthday with my family and picking a set date to clear out the nursery! Also, we had a snow day thanks to the Blizzard of 2015! Sean and I both really enjoyed being lazy in our pjs all day!

Complaints:

  The usual... back aches, acid reflux, tired.  I have had more difficulty breathing this week.  When I sit or lay down I tend to get very out of breath.  I also tend to get out of breath easily from moving at all!  My nausea also made a return this week! I had stopped taking b6 and unisom thinking I was in the clear but nope! I am back on it and that is how it is going to stay until the baby is born!

Movement:

This week I had a few instances where she poked a foot or hand out and it was actually painful! She is still getting my under the ribs when I sit down as well.  I have also noticed that she is most active mid-morning! 

Missing...:

sleep still and not having acid reflux! Also, I am really missing and longing for the days when I could put on my sock easily! 

Craving:

Still just milk!

Thoughts, Feelings, Fears
I am starting to feel really anxious about how much we have to get done.  I can't control when the baby comes and I am just afraid that she is going to make her debut earlier then expected.  I am working on getting things ready for my maternity leave but it all just seems very overwhelming! 

Looking Forward to: 

I know earlier I said we had a paint color picked but that did not work out and I am having a really hard time picking on! So, I am looking forward to picking a color and getting the room painted!