23 Weeks

I had an appointment this afternoon with my OB. I saw a midwife for my first two pregnancies, but with the trouble I have it ends up being an OB who is consulted so often in the first half of pregnancy that I opted to just start with a doc. Don't get me wrong, I loved my midwives, but I've learned that the nurses are the ones that get you through much of the labor part anyway so I'm OK with seeing an OB.

I have my birth plan written out already and being that it's my third time, I have a pretty good idea what I want and don't want and have no problem speaking up for myself if necessary. We will be delivering at the same hospital our first two were born at, but there is an entire new birthing area now. I've heard from my SIL who is due in five short weeks that it's really nice. I'm looking forward to touring it sometime down the road and asking some of my questions.

News for this week: I'm feeling a bit better - that strange feeling from last week is still there, but it doesn't keep me from functioning so I can't complain. Babe's heart rate is in the 140's - she's a kicker which was very evident with the doppler on my belly this afternoon. I wouldn't want it any other way! I don't feel like there is much room left - my skin is stretching more and more every day, but I love that her kicks are becoming stronger and stronger. I'm up five pounds from my last visit a month ago so my weight gain is finally tapered off. I wasn't going to survive the five pounds a week like it was there for a while! So far I've gained 20 pounds but can still wear my regular clothes. Phew! Come on Spring! I am ready for my comfy capris! I'm still craving citrus and can easily eat 2-3 oranges a day. Yum!

Our list of names is very short. Very. But at least they are all names we agree on! If you hear of a girl name that catches your attention feel free to pass it on - we're not ones to pick a name before meeting the baby so we have lots of time for suggestions!

I'm started to get antsy about setting up the nursery - or at least removing my office things so it isn't so crowded with baby stuff and office stuff. I found some things in the basement that didn't sell at our garage sale that we'll be able to use - little toys, carseat pad, nursing bras, changing pads....and then there are the things that I was never able to part with after Julia - sleep sacks, breathable crib bumper, newborn clothes, video monitor, baby sling, blankets, hats, homemade bibs, cloth diapers. I also have a collection of summer clothes she'll be able to wear next summer. There won't be many things that both Julia and the baby will wear, but it sure will be fun to reuse the ones we can!

I'm trying my best to ignore the aches and pains and focus on the miracle of life growing inside of me. We are so excited to meet this little one and see what God has in store for our new family of FIVE!