Progress in Centimeters

Dear Baby B -

At 38 weeks we are making progress! I went to the doctor yesterday and we are both doing great and looking good. We did find out that I am 1 (almost 2!) centimeters dilated and 50% effaced; and you are definitely continuing to burrow your way down there cause things are starting to get a little uncomfortable. Although I don't feel that I am having any contractions, just a couple here and there, I know we are getting close to your birth! So the big day is just around the corner!

The doctor and I did discuss a plan for if you do not come on your own. If you haven't arrived by March 8th, they will bring me in to the hospital that night to start the induction process with a plan for delivery on March 9th. Daddy was happy about that because 9 is his favorite number.

Last weekend we dedicated to making sure everything was ready for you to come home. We set up all kinds of things for you (swing, pack n play, bouncer, etc) and I just finished my last load of your laundry. The nursery is finally 99% complete and that's as complete as it can get until we know whether you are a boy or girl. Eventually we plan to put your name over the crib along with some decals. So below I've put up some pics of your future home:

Who knows Baby? Maybe Mommy's next post will be a picture of you and the announcement of your arrival!!!

Love you tons!

Mommy XOXO

Showered with Love

Hi Baby B!

We are almost at the end of our journey here. At 36 weeks now, we are in our final weeks. Believe it or not, you could come any day now! Now you are the size of a watermelon and are gaining about a half ounce per week:

Although you are almost considered full term (will be as of Friday), you are still continuing to grow. And everyday you spend in my belly is another day of strength you are gaining. So, as eager as Daddy and I are to meet you now, we're happy to let you stay put for a little while longer.

Our last two doctor's visits were pretty uneventful. They say you look great and things are going well. I've had a few contractions while on the fetal monitor, but nothing that I have felt. Although I do think I may have felt one or two these last couple days - obviously nothing too big though.

The doctors did inform me though that you will definitely be here by your due date, March 11!!! Because of my thyroid and the effects it can have on the placenta they do not want to you in there any longer than necessary. So that was exciting to here!! At one of our next visits we'll talk about a plan if you do not come on your own by then. Personally I feel like you're already moving down and getting yourself ready.

Last weekend Daddy and I started our childbirth prep class and will finish it this weekend. Although a lot of the information is review to me, it's been informative to both me and your Dad. Also this weekend we plan to finish putting everything together and away in anticipation of you coming. Your nursery is ALMOST complete and I can't wait to show off Daddy's amazing job! (Pictures of that should be posted next time)

Speaking of pictures, here's our latest pic - taken yesterday before Daddy and I went out for Valentine's Day:

36 weeks 4 days

And as promised, here are some pictures from our two showers:

Mommy & Daddy B

March Baby Bumps

Baby B's first Bears jersey

With the hostesses

Mommy & Daddy B

With the Grandmas

Hand drawn animals for nursery

Baby B in 3D

Hi Baby B!

Today marks 35 weeks for us. You have reached the size of a large cantaloupe:

Your growth has reached it's peak and will now start to slow down in preparation for delivery. Most of your body systems have reached maturity now, and those that haven't won't until after you are born. We know that you are growing strong because today was our ultrasound and you now weigh about 6 lbs 2 oz, which is the 60th percentile.

We got some very cool 3D photos of your face today and it was just another thing that made your upcoming arrival all the more real. One thing Daddy and I seemed to agree on was that you look to have Mommy's nose. Here's a sneak at your precious little face (ignore the placenta and other stuff that's kind of in the way):

Baby B's profile at 35 weeks

Face and hand under chin

Sad face or sleepy face

Baby B in 3D

Our last couple doctors appointments have went well. This week you were very active and cooperative so we only had to stay on the monitor for about 10 minutes. Probably helps that Mommy decided to eat a decent meal before going to the doctor...and a snack in the car.

Speaking of Mommy, for the most part I am still feeling pretty good. But there is definitely some discomfort that sets in these last few weeks. Sleep is definitely getting harder to come by. There's always something waking me up - being too hot, having to go to the bathroom, reflux (all things we weren't dealing with until recently). I also feel like you have started to drop, and have been told that by several people now. I'm feeling more pressure lower and my back is often sore. But I don't mind all these things because it's all a sign that you are on your way!

We are working on the final preparations in your nursery as we unpack your gifts and add some last minute decorations. Once it's complete I'll post some more photos.

Tomorrow is our last shower with Mommy's side of the family. So after that I will post some pics from both of the showers. To hold everyone over though, here's our most recent picture from this week:

Baby B & Me - 35 weeks

Love you always,

Mommy XOXO