Pregnancy Update: 36 weeks

Maternity Clothes:  Anything I can fit into... which isn't much.  In the picture above I'm wearing my 'moo moo' shirt and gaucho pants.  Not the cutest outfit in the world but very comfortable.  Well,  as comfortable as it gets.  Still loving my yoga pants too.

Best Moment This Week:  Hosting my first Thanksgiving.  Having family around makes things so much easier.  It's relaxing to have another adult around to talk to.  It was wonderful to have Craig have a short break from school before the last 3 weeks which are going to be very busy. 

Movement:  This little guy doesn't have much room to move around lately. He should be measuring close to 6lbs. now.  He has the hiccups lots and lots though.  I'm almost wondering if they got my due date wrong.  I can't imagine getting any bigger. .. but I guess it's possible.

Food Cravings:  Barbecued chicken, orange juice, clementine oranges, bananas, apples with peanut butter, string cheese, milk, cake, pie, & Lindt Chocolates.

What I Miss Most:  Exercise!!  I've toned down the crazy mostly and my hormones seem to be more in check but since I'm progressing along pretty early, I'm trying to hold off labor.  I'm not completely on bed rest .. just trying to take it easy.  Which means trying to stay off my feet.  This is torture for me.  I REALLY miss being able to walk to pick up Jace from school and even though it shouldn't, exercising somewhat defines my day.  I always feel better if I've done something healthy for myself in the morning.

What I'm Looking Forward To:  Making it to 37 weeks.  I'm focused on one week at a time.

Symptoms:  We've already had one trip to the hospital (which turned out to be a false alarm) and now that I'm 36 weeks I'm 75% effaced and still dilated to a 1.  I contribute that to staying off my feet.  The contractions are pretty constant although they haven't been extremely painful.  There is lots of pressure and swelling down south, cramping in my calves, and the baby has dropped.  I feel like I can breath again. I've hit the nesting stage full force which is difficult because there are so many things I want to do while still trying to 'take it easy'.  I have put up the Christmas decorations, cleaned the house, set up the pack n' play, washed the baby clothes & blankets in dreft, and made a cute little baby corner in my room complete with rocking chair.  The hospital bag is packed. Should the time come - I am ready.

Other Thoughts:  I am so thankful for this precious little babe and am beyond excited for him to join our family.  I often daydream about holding him and think about how our family dynamic will change.  It's been 4 1/2 years since we have had a newborn. I have been waiting for this baby for a long time coming and can't believe it's almost time for his arrival.