Remaining Calm!

"What happens at Parent Education Class?" I've gotten that question a few times recently, so let me tell you. They scare the living daylights out of you, that's what!!!!!! I'm not sure it was such a smart move to attend now that we did, and I'm usually one of those people who likes to know exactly what's happening. We spent 4 hours on Saturday at the hospital getting prepped for all things childbirth. I had read the books and magazines that detail labor and delivery, but I didn't get a feel for it until the nurse led us step by step through the process. (I know what you're thinking: she still doesn't have a clue!) We started with "how to know you're in labor" and "admitting" and so far so good. Here's where it starts to go downhill (quickly!). IVs, epidurals, monitors (possibly internal!!), and many other torture devices are described with such gusto and certainty that I'm getting pale and a little nauseated. Once we got to the catheter, Kevin was urging me to step outside so I didn't get sick in class. How many hours did she say labor could last? Much of the "delivery" discussion was a blur, as I was trying not to run away and pass out at the same time! I regained my listening skills just in time for "recovery" which sent me right back over the edge. Did you guys know all the terrible things that happen after childbirth? Apparently it's not over when you deliver! Luckily it's time for a break. Snacks, anyone? The rest of the class was distracting: diaper changing (Kevin was a quick learner), bathing a newborn, carseat installation, and other general baby care information. We even got to visit the nursery and scope out a few newborns. (They are so cute! I know what these nurses are doing: they're trying to comfort me with the sight of babies, and it works for only a moment.) I'm proud to say I made it all the way out of the parking lot before histerics took over. Kevin had to pull over due to my uncontrolable and unconsolable crying. He was very sympathetic and loving, but it wasn't really working. After several days, a few long walks, and talking with my parents, his parents, and a few friends, I'm no longer refusing to give birth. (Mature of me, don't you think?) It seems that everyone else manages ok, and some people even choose to give birth again. It can't be that torturous, right? I've decided it might just be terrible at the time, but the reward is worth it and maybe my brain will block out the painful memories so I can do it again.

Moral of the story: too much information isn't always a good thing!

31 weeks

I'm going to do my best to update at least weekly now that we're getting so close. I'll also try to post pictures so you can all follow my ever-expanding belly. Kevin takes these pictures on Wednesday afternoons when we get home from work, and I'm sure I'll give up on "looking cute" by the end! Little Lincoln has been good this week. He practiced his boxing skills yesterday, and I thought I might have an octopus in there. He was kicking and punching in so many places at once! The book says he's over 3 pounds now and that he's got a lot to do during his waking hours. Along with kicking and punching his mom, he blinks, swallows, gulps, hiccups and even dreams! His brain is in full swing practicing these skills and getting ready to learn everything about our world. On that note: I'm accepting advice regarding fish oil. I have been taking fish oil capsules (specifically small cold water fish)to amp up his brain power, but I'm not sure I enjoy them. Other than the obvious gag-reflex, heartburn and burping seems to be side effects. Any suggestions on how to alleviate these side effects? Freezing them seems to help some . . . the smell and side effects!

We were quite busy this past weekend - I had breastfeeding class, which I couldn't convince Kevin to attend with me. I told him he was a Dead Beat Dad for making me go alone, but he stayed home and cleaned the garage. I guess that's an equal trade! Of course I didn't learn to breastfeed, just how best to approach it and prepare for it when the time comes. I'll have a lactation consultant in the hospital once the baby is born. The inspection on our potential home went well. I think we finally found a good one. There will be lots more to come on that later. Keep your fingers crossed. Hope everyone has a good week!

30 Weeks!

It's hard to imagine that Baby Lincoln has been with me for 30 weeks. We've gone through so many things together, and I can't wait to finally meet him. He's doing really well these days. He likes to stick to his routine of kicking after breakfast and early afternoon then putting on a show after dinner. Kevin and I stared at my belly forever last night watching him maneuver around. He started out up high on my left side then kicked and turned and somersaulted his way to my right side, my belly stretching in weird ways as he moved. Kevin asked me what it feels like when he moves, and I can't really describe it: wonderful and strange all at the same time. I am finally able to report that I passed my gestational diabetes test! I had just gotten over a cold at my first screening, and I think my levels were all out of whack. 3 hours, 4 blood draws, and one REALLY strong glucose drink later - I've been given the all clear. The nurse called this afternoon to tell me my levels were perfectly normal and I was at no risk for GD, and I didn't even know what to say. I had so many questions prepared for her and (happily) they were not necessary.

We've got a lot to do in the next 10 weeks to get ready for little Lincoln. His nursery doesn't exist at this point, as it might be in a new house. Keep me in your prayers on that one!! I've got a lot to wrap up at work, plenty of shopping to do, breastfeeding class, child preparation class, and maybe a move. At least he won't be bored in there! I'll try to do better about the belly pics as we near the end.

Happy New Year!

What an exciting year we have ahead of us! 2009 is sure to be the best year ever, as soon as Baby Lincoln joins us. To celebrate the end of 2008, we really partied hard. Eric and Samantha came over for steaks and brought her super-cool Christmas gift for us all to enjoy - a real Nintendo! We played ExciteBike, Mario Bros, Double Dribble, RBI Baseball and other old school games. Everyone's frustration level went way up, as the games were much harder than I remember from 5th grade! As the clock struck twelve we toasted with champagne and sparkling apple cider (thanks, Samantha!) and wished each other the best new year ever.

Hope your New Year is starting off great!