30-Week Updates

It's been two weeks since my last post, but I feel like it's been much longer than that. There's been a lot going on, and I should've been more diligent to post.

I guess I will start with childbirth classes. The first class was just like a lecture. We received a LOT of information, too much to absorb in one 2 1/2 hour session. But, it was all good and beneficial. The second class was more interactive as we practiced breathing techniques and ways to ease back pain. Thankfully, I've not had back pain, but it is good to know about the double-hip squeeze. :) We watched a vaginal delivery video also. Tonight will be our 3rd class. We are supposed to watch a C-section video.

I also started breastfeeding classes. I guess you guys can skip this paragraph... The first class was much like the first childbirth class - lots of info and not much interaction. During the second class, we practiced positions and learned how to swaddle. It's encouraging to know that breastfeeding is NOT supposed to make my nipples sore. I have prayed that Samuel and I get the hang of it quickly so that I am not unsure about it when we get home.

I had my second baby shower yesterday. It was really nice and I was pleased with all the gifts and seeing my friends and family. My dear friend, Robin, from Pearl, MS came up for this shower and it was so nice to see her!
Also, my aunt and cousin from Winona drove over. I was so happy to see them since it's been TOO long since I had. The hostesses of this shower bought us the Graco travel system. I am very happy to have that - mostly because it means that now I can get the baby home from the hospital! :)

I am planning on creating a page that lists everything I've received and purchased and possibly links to pictures of them. Hopefully it will be up soon. I'm also looking into using an online picture album. If it goes like I think it will, I will post a link soon, so you can see the shower pictures and whatever else I decide to upload.

We also took another picture of my belly last night, and I hope to get it up today. This will be my 30-week picture. I feel like I look as big as some women who are ready to deliver, but I am not complaining. I know everyone is different. I was glad to hear someone say yesterday that she could not tell I had gained weight anywhere except my belly. That always makes a pregnant girl feel good!

My next doctor's appointment is tomorrow morning. I have to drink another Coke to have the diabetes test done again. Fun! Fun!

Crib Decision

I think this is probably tougher than picking a name - THE CRIB DECISION. So many questions flood my mind when I think about/shop for a crib. About the only thing I know is that I want a white one. There are so many options: drop side, non-drop side, two drop sides; how many mattress height adjustments; convertible vs. non-convertible; wheels vs. no wheels...

I've consoled myself in this: every first-time parent goes through this. I am not the first, nor will I be the last. I'm sure everyone has their own opinion and I don't mind hearing/reading them. I will find something that works for me and be satisfied with my choice.

I'm 13 weeks now, and still feeling good. My energy is returning, my bathroom visits are less frequent, my belly is getting bigger, my clothes are getting tighter, and the decisions are starting to feel almost overwhelming. I think that's pretty normal!

I heard from my friend in Alabama. Cooper Douglas was born Friday weighing 9 pounds and 2 ounces; 21 1/2 inches long! I am glad they are both doing well. Maybe I'll make a crib-shopping trip over that way and stop in to see her while I'm there.

Babies, Babies, Babies

I have several friends having babies right now. It's kind of funny... I think they might have gotten a drink from the same fountain!

Shelia Fulgham had her baby yesterday. She was induced for the third time, and true to her previous patterns, her baby arrived around 12:00. Nathan Lane(?) is here and weighs somewhere around 6 lbs. 8 oz.

Another friend, Rebecca (Bailey) Rustin also had her baby yesterday. This is her first, and like Shelia, she was induced. She holds a record in my book... she even beat Shelia getting her baby here... Lily(?) arrived somewhere around 11:00. And, I hear she went from 5 to 10 cm in 15 minutes! I'm truly impressed.

Another friend, Dede Myl, who lives in Alabama, is scheduled for C-Section today. She has a pretty big baby boy according to the doctor. I will hopefully hear from them soon.

Then, there's Andi Gleeson out in California. She is 39 weeks pregnant (I think she feels like she's going on 43 weeks). I got the blog idea from her, as well as the counter at the top of the page... Thanks, Andi! She'll be having her baby boy soon.

As for us, Baby and I will be waiting until the end of May. We are going full-term with no complications! We are also going to have a quick and painless labor and delivery. How do I know? I have asked the LORD, and I believe I receive when I pray! If He did it for Shelia and Rebecca, He will do it for me!