Waiting for Baby V: Thirty-Nine Noteworthy Weeks!

WOW! Just days away, and I will be a "Momma" for the very first time. That is so crazy and amazing, but it also seems like I've waited forever too! We are so excited, and cannot hardly believe that this time next week, we will most likely be home with our tiny girl, Eloise Marie. There have been a few ups and downs this week, but it definitely has ended happily. I have felt really good these past few days, and my blood pressure has been a lot better too. Last week on Sunday night, we went to the hospital, thinking my blood pressure was too high, and feeling fearful of what was happening. They sent us home though, and we were so happy. With that in mind, I tried to relax the next few days. We then had a doctor's appointment on Tuesday, where my blood pressure was still high, and so they decided to do some blood work for toxemia/preeclampsia. If it came back that I was having those issues, the plan was going to have to be bumped up to Wednesday to have her, and possibly via c-section. I was pretty upset that day, but heard back that all was looking good and to proceed with my next appointment on Friday. Then, Friday, we finally had some better blood pressure measurements! All the relaxation and down time had paid off! Since then, I have felt really great, and less tired than I have in a while. I am so thankful that I have had this little spurt of energy here at the end, and now I hope it lasts me until Wednesday night. Most of my big "to do's" are done, but I'd like to have a few more days to myself, or to Chris and myself. We had a wonderful weekend together, just doing the simple things, and I love just being with my sweet sweet husband.

I am so excited to meet Ellie, but I have also REALLY loved being pregnant too. There are so many things I am going to miss about it...
   You can get away with eating/wanting to eat most anything you want! Okay, okay, within reason, but it has been SO NICE to not have to worry about every little thing! I will have to get back to work, and work hard after Ellie gets here, but this has been the most awesome eating season of my life. And my wonderful husband has indulged me every step along the way. What a sweet man!
   You can be bit lazier than usual! You are supposed to rest, rest, rest, and I have enjoyed doing this. I have gotten bored a bit this past week (though I swore I would never say that), especially when I find the motivation to get stuff done, and then know that I shouldn't do it and relax instead. Such a silly problem to have.
   Pregnant ladies have always made me smile, and I have found that others smile a lot more at me too. Waddling ladies with big round tummies have always made me a little happier, especially when I would think about being one myself someday too. I can't fully explain why they have brought joy to me, but I hope I have done the same too. I have noticed people of all types giving me a smile, and it is so sweet.
   People want to do things to help you. It is amazing how people have helped and been there for us during this exciting, and sometimes stressful, time. Even strangers have gone out of their way to do little things for us, and we are so very grateful. It's easy to focus on the negative stuff and people in life, but it's been more difficult for me during this time to forget all of the good and unselfish people. I have loved it!
   And the most important reason of all... There is a tiny person growing in my tummy, a tiny miracle from God. It has been incredible to experience this little miracle grow and change and move on her own, without me having any control over what she does. She is her own little person already, and I can't imagine not having her. I am going to miss feeling her wiggle, kick, and punch, hearing her heatbeat, and trying to figure out what is her foot, her elbow, etc., but I will actually get to see her in just a FEW DAYS. That is simply amazing!

The last episode of the pregnancy diaries...

1. Total weight gain: +43 lbs. (I lost 1 lb. this week! WOW! Maybe lost some extra fluids?)

2. Maternity clothes?: Yes, and I have worn the same outfit multiple days in a row, because I feel the cutest in it. So there. 

3. Stretch marks?: Nope! YAY!

4. Sleep?: Though I don't sleep solidly for more than 3 or 4 hours, I am thankful that I have been able to sleep in and take naps as needed. Like they say, my body is preparing for Ellie's arrival! 

5. Best moment this week?: Hmmm...Maybe a three-way tie, when they said I didn't have to deliver Wednesday, better blood pressure report on Friday, and the great day Chris and I had together yesterday? It's been a full week, full of many blessings for sure.

6. Miss anything?: Cutting my to do list down has again been difficult this week, but I've also gotten quite a bit done already. I just miss getting to do what I want when I find the motivation to do it! Guess that will have to wait for a while now too...

7. Movement?: Ellie is moving a lot still, and stretching and punching and kicking...But I love it. Reminds me of the tiny life that will be here very very soon!

8. Food cravings?: Cheese, chocolate shakes, sugar, and of course, fried food. 

9. Anything make you queasy or sick?: Nope!

10. Gender?: Sweet little girl will be here this week...

11. Labor signs?: I think so...My back is hurting a lot too, but I guess I'll find out what labor feels like soon enough!

12. Symptoms?: I get worn out very easily, especially after walking or being on my feet for too long. And my back hurts too! Oh, and still going to the bathroom A LOT. :)

13. Belly button in or out?: Still in!

14. Wedding rings on or off?: Off now. :( They are just too tight to wear.

15. Happy or moody most of the time?: Happy, but anxious. Each day my feelings change about when I want her to be here, but most of all, I can't wait for her to be here to know that she is okay and so am I. She's been a good baby staying in there for so long, just a few more days little Ellie!

16. Looking forward to most?: Meeting Eloise this week! Not much else I can think of, or plan for, since she could be here any time now.  WOWZA!

Well, as my last pregnancy blog, I wanted to make sure to thank all of you for all your love and support throughout this exciting adventure! I can't believe I will meet little Ellie in just a few days...Can't wait to share her with you all too! I know I will write again soon, but until then, much love to each of you!

Happy "Eloise-ter" from the Parents-to-be!