and then there were four…

So, I went to the doctor today and it looks as though we may be having our baby as early as next week if nature doesn’t start things along any sooner.

I am 2 centimeters dilated, and the baby is almost completely effaced, so the doctor says that while he doesn’t like to give estimates, he typically sees labor start within a week of these types of conditions. Coupled with the fact that the baby is already over 8 lbs (by his estimate), he says that if we haven’t gone into labor by next Monday and I have dilated more, he may schedule an induction. So it is all up in the air at this point, but very exciting.

Oh, don’t get me wrong, I’m scared to death. At first, I thought it was about the actual labor/delivery aspect of pregnancy. Yes, that is scary, but that part if going to be the easy part because there will be an end to it, it doesn’t last forever. But this baby–this child that we are bringing into the world, that’s forever. And that is so scary. Not because I don’t think I will love the baby, because I already love this child more than I have ever loved anything. And I know that the birth will only cement that fact even more. I guess it is because I don’t want to mess this child up. I want to do everything to make his or her life as positive as a child can have. I guess I am scared of my own abilities. Everyone says that I will be fine, and this is normal. I’m sure it is, but…still oh so scary.

I’m planning on keeping the blog going after the baby is born, just because it is a nice way to see my own growth, even if no one continues to read. Besides, I’m sure baby-hood is probably much more fun to read about than pregnancy. :)

So, after three weeks of being on moderate bed rest, my doctor today informed me that he thinks I can safely go out and about–as long as I continue to take it easy. Yes, I can now go to the store, as long as my husband is with me (the doctor doesn’t want me to venture out without someone, just in case).

That’s not all in the good news department. The doctor is also tapering me off of the medication I have been on to stop contractions. It seems that at 34 weeks, my baby is almost 7 lbs. (that’s one big baby!) and if I were to go into labor today, it is very likely that the baby would be able to come home with us and not have to be in intensive care. This is all very good. I am still praying for three more weeks (so I can make it to 37 weeks–which is considered to term) However, the doctor said that if I can make it at least one week without being on the medication, that would be very beneficial to the baby, and he seems very positive that will be the case. So, at that rate, we are looking at being 36 weeks (because I will be off the medication at the very end of my 34th week). And people have babies at 36 weeks all the time. The baby is still low and in perfect position for me to be able to deliver naturally, which makes me happy. Who knows, though? I could very well carry the baby until the end of October (my due date)–I mean, the baby will come when he/she is ready, right? But it is so very nice to be pretty much out of the woods as far as “pre-term labor” fears are concerned.

Life is good. I couldn’t be happier. My baby is VERY active and is kicking the crap out of my ribs, but the movement is such a great sign, how can I really complain about that? The hiccups have been hilarious–every day or so I feel the baby hiccuping away.

I am so very thankful to all those people who have kept us in their thoughts and prayers, and I want you all to know how much it means to us. You guys rock. Thanks to those also who have visited, called, emailed, etc. It really lifted my spirits when I was stuck in bed. While I am still considered on bed rest, it just seems like the most wonderful present that I am actually going to be able to go out and pick out the crib with my husband and pick up those last minute items that I had put off until now. I am going to be able to be a little bit more productive. But, I need to remember my limits and not push myself. So, that will be the real challenge.