This Is It!

Since my last post on Friday evening, I've been feeling much better. I'm still up at night with random contractions, but I have been able to get a few hours of sleep here and there. I'm getting more and more uncomfortable each day - the back pain is ridiculous by the end of the day. So much so that I'll just go to bed because it's so painful.

Yesterday, Tommy and I did enjoy our brunch outdoors at Vittles. I ordered lunch, he went with breakfast. Tommy made the better choice. Mine was just okay...but his pancakes were really yummy. Later in the afternoon, we headed over to my parent's house. My Dad smoked a pork loin, sausage, corn, and we had mashed potatoes and brownies for dessert. It was delicious and also my dinner plans for this evening. After dinner, we ventured into a furniture store to walk our food off, plus, Tommy is insisting that we need a new couch upstairs. Okay, I'll give him some credit, I've had that couch  for 7 years or so and it's not exactly great quality.

The couch he wants is literally the most comfortable couch I've ever sat on...even my parents agreed. But, we've got to wait to see these medical bills roll in for Madeline before we can even consider getting a new couch. At first, I wasn't on board with a new couch, but we literally spend 90% of our time in our bonus room...so it would be nice to at least be comfortable. Plus, our dining room is still empty. We need a dining room table, too! We're probably just going to have to wait awhile on both.


In other news, I finally got a new phone. I switched from a Droid X to the iPhone 4s. First, I will admit that I am not the most technologically advanced person, however, I do have a few gripes about the iPhone. In a phone, I just want the basics requirements nowadays: quality camera, apps, recorder, voice, email, text, music, internet, etc. I don't need anything super fancy. My one gripe about the camera is that it only allows you to directly upload to a few items. For instance, I cannot directly upload a photo to Facebook or Photobucket...I have to go into the app, then upload. I find it odd that I can directly upload to Twitter, but not Facebook. It's just an extra step that I'm not a fan of (my Droid allowed me to upload to any app directly from the camera). However, the camera is 10x better than my Droid, which was one reason why I wanted a new phone. My next complaint is the voicemail access. There's a voicemail tab under the the "phone" icon, however, you cannot directly dial to voicemail from the tab, it just shows you the phone number that left the voicemail. Just another annoying step, really. Overall, I like it, especially since it syncs with my iPad. Siri hasn't been super helpful just yet, but I haven't needed her assistance just yet, either. And, I had to post my new case. I understand it's a tacky and gaudy, but I love it.

Of course you know that tomorrow is the big appointment. My appointment will last around 2 hours, so I'll get done around Noon. They could send me immediately into labor and deliver or we'll schedule induction/c section for this week. However, Madeline will be arriving no later than Friday!!!

I'm posting my final 38 week belly photo! This is it!

Ick...

Basically, describes my day/night. I was up all last night with constant contractions. I really thought I might be heading into real labor. Some contractions were very painful, and would wake me up if fell back to sleep. But, no, not real labor. The contractions decreased after I got up for the day. But, then, the constant nausea decided to set back in. I felt horrible. And, I still have the typical braxton hicks, constant pinching pains, back aches, exhaustion, etc.

Randomly today I felt the sudden urge to devour a cheeseburger. Not a food I typically crave at all...but Tommy went and grabbed me one along with a big Sprite to settle my stomach. Actually, I haven't had a strong craving in a long time. Meaning, I need to have it right this second. So much for my "health quest," right? Ha...well, I've been good so I'm not going to worry about it.

Along with everything else today, I had a few meltdowns. I'm hormonal, tired, anxious, and well 9.5 months pregnant. To sum it all up - today was definitely not my day.

I'm still not feeling well. I feel very sluggish. I tried to nap a few times during the day, but I could never get comfortable. I'm hoping tomorrow will be much better.

I'm so ready for Monday's appointment to get here already so we can have a final plan nailed down. Of course, we've been over every possible scenario....it's just determining which one will be the course of action.

I'm actually pretty calm about the whole labor and delivery process...for now. I'm sure once it's scheduled or if I'm rushed immediately to labor and delivery, I'll be a nervous wreck. I think choosing to skip Thursday's appointment was a good idea. While the biweekly appointments have given me peace of mind, they also make me anxious. But, I'm down to the very last one!!!

Plus, it's not like I can really have a birth plan of my own. Not that I really have anything out of the ordinary. I definitely want the drugs, and I want Madeline to get all the necessary shots, medications, etc. It's also important that Tommy and I have about an hour or so after Madeline's birth to bond, feed, etc. to ourselves before our parents come in to meet her. Hopefully, since I'm pretty far along now she won't be whisked off to the NICU ward. Otherwise, no one will get to see her for quite awhile...not even me! (With the exception of being held up to us after delivery).

So, that's pretty much all we know for now.

As far as this weekend goes, Tommy and I are going to try a southern style restaurant nearby for brunch tomorrow if I'm feeling better. My parents also mentioned grilling out either Saturday or Sunday evening. The weather right now is actually fantastic. It's in the mid 80s, lower humidity, and a nice breeze. I'm hoping to enjoy some of the weather.

Operation Health Quest

I've posted before that I don't believe in radical diets, but a healthy lifestyle. I call this a "Health Quest," and my journey is about to restart. I have to admit, I pretty much gave into eating unhealthy around 26 weeks, along with the inability to no longer workout - which is not exactly a great combination.

Not being able to workout has been extremely frustrating for me. I enjoy working out. I've always worked out...it's just apart of my lifestyle. I am so ready to get back on the bandwagon. Of course, I'll have to follow doctor's orders post partum, but I think I'll still be able to at least go for walks. And, I plan on working out at home for awhile doing DVDs, but I am eventually going to have to get my gym membership back. I just have to have it, especially in the winter months.

I've already started eating healthier the past two weeks. No more daily cupcakes, pies, and cookies for me. I haven't gone full blown healthy just yet - but I'll get there. I'm trying to do it slowly so I'm not shocking my body. And, I still have to make sure I'm eating enough for two. Even on my "Health Quest" meal plans, I do allow myself a couple cheat meals and dessert within reason. I don't believe in just cutting everything out completely, otherwise, I'd fail miserably. My main issues are cutting back on sweets, carbs, and meal portions.

I know it's going to take some time to get my body back to pre-pregnancy shape. Although, I haven't gained a ton of weight, so I think I will be able to lose it all within 3 months. But, I know things are going to shift, and my hips and rib cage may take longer to fall back into place (If they actually go back to normal. They may not). I would like to lose an extra 5 lbs from where I was back in December. I had gained a little last Fall, and I *hope* to lose it. Of course, I'm being cautiously optimistic. It might end up being a PITA....and having a newborn along with a healthy diet and exercise isn't exactly easy. I'm just hoping I'll be able to juggle it. 

I also plan on posting weekly progression photos of my progress. Mainly because it'll be a motivator for me and I'll have to have some type of accountability.

To change the subject, my contractions have actually lessened the two days. However, my upset stomach, nausea, and constant zinging pains have taken over. I felt awful all afternoon. I just ate dinner, so I'm hoping that will help.

Zach and Leia graciously decided to bring us take out last night (I was good and had a soup and salad), and came over and hung out for awhile. It was so nice to have social interaction and catch up. They really are the best.

I have no idea what's in store the next few days. I'm trying to keep myself busy, but I'm out of ideas for now. Perhaps, I'll have a baby. That'll for sure keep me busy :)

Another Week

I had my biophysical profile and OB check up this afternoon....and no induction this week! Madeline passed all of her testing again, and my fluids, placenta, etc. all look great. I'm 80% effaced, Madeline is engaged, and is getting herself ready. With that being said, she can still come on her own this week.

We went over the game plan again for next Monday....since it's the BIG ultrasound and it will determine c-section vs. induction, and what day I'll go. My OB said to plan on being induced next Monday night starting on Cervadil and they'll allow me to go home, then early Tuesday morning, I'll check back into the hospital and they'll start the remaining induction with Pitocin.

In the best case scenario, they'll let me go to next Thursday/Friday with the Cervadil/Pitocin routine, but no further. And, there's still the chance of the c-section, and immediately being induced after my ultrasound on Monday, depending on many factors.

Of course, the induction itself can always fail, resulting in a c-section. So, I'm curious to see how everything plays out. I'd like her to just decide to come on her own.

I also spoke with my doctor about how her pregnancy is progressing, and she said she doesn't predict herself going into labor within the next week. That definitely makes me feel better...at least if she's there on Monday's ultrasound to nail out the final details. I understand if someone else has to deliver.

Overall, I feel a lot better after today's appointment. There's just such a fine line on how far I'm allowed to go, and still wanting Madeline to stay in as long as she can, too. My OB reassured me that they are watching me like a hawk, as well as the high risk OBs, etc. and I'm in great hands.

I'm actually going to skip this Thursday's appointment, too. My OB gave me the option, but since Madeline is so active, I'm not worried about it. And, my OB said that if anything does change, or my contractions worsen, call and they'll fit me in asap. So, I feel pretty good.

I did have more pinching, zinging pains last night along with Braxton Hicks contractions, but not any real contractions. And, I got around 2-3 hours of sleep which is better than nothing.

I have a feeling I'm just going to be induced next Monday/Tuesday as my OB indicated. I could be wrong...I've been completely wrong thus far on arrival predictions.

I just know I'll be an official mommy by the end of next week!

Full Term!

I'm very excited that Madeline has now made it to full term at 37 weeks! Also, over the recent 48 hours, Madeline has descended down even further and is now fully engaged. How do I know this? Constant stabbing, pinching, and pressure pains. Also, I'm getting these awful, startling, zinging, sharp, shooting pains going down my leg at random moments. They are extremely painful, however, it's a great sign that she's even more ready now. I'm still having some contractions on and off, but mainly Braxton Hicks for now.

I was thankfully able to catch up on much needed sleep Thursday night, but that all went downhill last night. As soon as I went to bed, my adrenaline started pumping (no idea why), and I was wide awake. So, I might have gotten maybe an hour last night? Hopefully, tonight I can catch back up.

Tommy and I went to dinner last night, then came home and I crashed on the couch. Today, we have the drywallers and painters making the final repairs on our roof damage. They were nice enough to squeeze us in on a weekend since they know I'll be giving birth in the next 9 days. (OMG - single digits now).

While they're painting, Sophie and I are going to head over to my parent's house so I can avoid the fumes. Plus, my hair is needing a much needed highlight.

Okay, so I've been cheating. Cheating on my hair guy, Wayne, whom I love. However, time, money, bed rest, etc. has prevented me in seeing him. So, my Mom has been filling in as my personal colorist. I actually took cosmetology for fun in high school, so I do know a thing or two about coloring. Plus, I use exactly what Wayne uses on my hair...so it makes it easier. I'm saving a load of money, but, I do need to go see him soon, plus I miss him. Nonetheless, my Mom really does a great job. I still recommend Wayne to everyone...he is so awesome!

I'm trying to decide if I'm done rambling this morning. Honestly, I'm just trying to pass the time for now. I'm anxious for my appointment tomorrow. It's around lunch time, so later than normal. I'm sure Madeline will pass all of her testing again on her ultrasound, but I'm anxious to see my progress. And, I was completely wrong about my predictions on her arrival. Of course, now I know it will be within the next 9 days, but I'm still crossing my fingers that she comes on her own...before the 13th to avoid the induction and/or c section scenario. And selfishly, I'm hoping my OB doesn't go early, either. I'd just hate for another OB to have to step in on my final appointment on the 13th and make a call. Of course, they have all my detailed information, etc., but it's still nerve wracking.

I did start drinking my raspberry leaf tea, and I've tried a few spicy foods. The raspberry leaf tea doesn't help induce, but it's supposedly supposed to help with labor. Of course, these are all old wives' tales...so I take it with a grain of salt.

Alright, I'm sick of hearing myself think...so I'll call it a day!

Sleep, please?

I ended up being up all night again due to contractions. However, this time around, I can distinctly tell the difference between a Braxton Hicks contraction and a real contractions. My real contractions start out low, then radiate and tighten my entire belly, then wrap around my lower back. I had both kinds on and off all last night, but not in any particular pattern.

I was anxious to go to my OB appointment this morning, and of course, after I got out of bed the contractions started to dissipate. My NST looked good, and I am slightly more effaced more than I was on Monday, and barely dilated. Some progress, I suppose.

My OB made sure to ask if our car seat was in the car, hospital bags packed, and everything was ready to go. Of course since I have to be prepared for everything, this was all done weeks ago. She also advised Tommy and I to have a "date night" this weekend (if Madeline doesn't come in the next couple of days), because it will most likely be our last for awhile. And, she prepped me again for when we need to go to the hospital if something happens between today and my appointment  Monday morning.

I mentioned my upset stomach, and she said it was my body's way of preparing for labor, and it's actually quite common, and a great sign. Now, if I can just get some sleep! While I'm happy I am making progress, I am in desperate need of sleep.

The reason why my contractions are more frequent during the night, is that while we are in darkness, sleep states, etc. our bodies produce oxytocin - which is what is released during labor and triggers contractions and dilation. This is also why many women go into labor more during the middle of the night, instead of during the day. Interesting stuff, huh?

Anyway, I'm cranky right now, and I'm going to go lay myself of on the couch and call it a day. 

August!

I cannot believe it's finally August. I've been counting down to August since I found out I was pregnant! We definitely know that Madeline will be an August baby.

*TMI Alert* My stomach has been so upset the past few days. I'm so nauseous, too. I almost feel like I caught some type of stomach bug. I haven't eaten anything out of the ordinary, I'm not worried/stressed...so I don't know what the deal is.

Today, I have had a sudden rush of energy come at me out of nowhere. I decided to deep clean the entire house, give Sophie a bath, do all the laundry, and organize. I know I'm on bed rest, but I couldn't resist the urge. Nesting is in full swing at the moment. I'm sure I'll end up crashing this afternoon.

I tried a new product this week - Suave's Milk and Honey Body Splash bodywash. I actually scored 3 of these for free a few months back when Publix had them on bogo, and I had $1 off coupons. I just got to open a new bottle this week. I really didn't think I'd like it too much, but it's actually great. The scent is hard to describe, but it's nice. Also, it is extremely moisturizing. I'd compare it to Bath and Body Works version. I'll be a return customer on this one...but I think I have awhile before I'll go through my 3 bottles!

Tomorrow I have my weekly NST appointment, and I'll update how that goes tomorrow afternoon. Also, it's a full moon tomorrow. There is an increase in births for some reason on full moons. My brother and I were both born on full moons. Maybe Madeline will make an appearance? And here's a little trivia for you...the phrase "Once in a blue moon" is based on a month that has two full moons (the second moon is called the blue moon which doesn't occur often). This August, we have 2 full moons. Tomorrow night, and another August 31st.