2nd Childbirth Class

Adam and I went to our second childbirth class this past Tuesday. We were introduced to all the instruments that could possibly be used during the delivery, a few of them were quite scary looking. I think I am most nervous about having to get an IV. I have never had a surgery or been put under anesthesia for anything so being admitted to the hospital is a little scary for me.

We also watched 2 deliveries...I am still not sure what to think. I did become a little teary eyed because it is so amazing but at the same time I really don't like to think about my body having to go through that. Adam did surprisingly well!! The second video was the whole labor process, we watched the couple as they transitioned from home to hospital to active labor to birth and after. When the video was over Adam turned to me and said "we can do this" and gave me a high-five. Easy for him to say...he doesn't actually have to give birth. It was reassuring to me that he is so confident though.

Next week we will go on a tour of the maternity floor, we will see the rooms and nursery. I am looking forward to that, I think it will make us more comfortable to see what our surroundings will be like.

During our class we got to hear the lullaby for the first time!!! St. Vincent plays a lullaby over the loud speaker throughout the hospital every time a baby is born. That gave me a sense of excitment and brought a smile to my face!! We can't wait!!

33 Week Appointment

We had our 33 week appointment yesterday. We saw Dr. Duppler, he is one of my favorites!! We listened to the heartbeat and it was 148 beats per minute and very strong. Dr. Duppler was able to feel her head and could tell that she is head down. I keep getting this pushing feeling on my right side and I thought it must be her feet but I was wrong, according to Dr. Duppler it's her bony little butt!! So now when she sticks it out there it's kind of funny to know I can pat her on her little bum!!

Other then that there wasn't much news, I go back in two weeks and then we will start going every week. The count down is on!!!

First Class Down

Adam and I had our first childbirth class last night, our instructor is a retired labor and delivery nurse of 32 years who is probably in her seventies. There are 7 couples total in the class and we had quite a few laughs last night. Adam and I even got in trouble at one point...let's just say I couldn't stop laughing which in return made him start laughing. Oops!!

We played a "get to know you" game at the beginning of class and we found out that only one other couple is due before us and her due date is two days before mine. We also found out that we were the only couple that had our crib up and ready, I was shocked. Ours has been up and ready for months!!

We learned at what point we should go to the hospital after contractions start and when we should call the doctor. We practiced breathing and relaxation exercises which was interesting, I have a hard time picturing myself actually doing them once I am in labor. I think I learned better techniques in Massage Therapy school. My favorite part of the class was when Adam had to rub my back!!! He is pretty good at it!!

Next week we will watch two birth videos and be introduced to all the tools/instruments we could see the day of delivery. Our instructor advised us to eat before we come because she doesn't want anyone getting low blood sugar and passing out. I sure hope Adam and I both handle the videos okay!

Update: Uncomfortable

I have had a great pregnancy, never had any morning sickness and have felt pretty good other then the worst heartburn imaginable. Thank goodness for Pepcid AC and Tums!!!!! I really haven't had anything to complain about...BUT I have a feeling pregnancy bliss is about to be over.

Over the past 3-4 days I have started to feel REALLY pregnant and cannot imagine being pregnant for another 7 weeks. I know it's not my call to make, Madelyn will show her face when she is ready but I am starting to feel pretty uncomfortable. The back ache has set in, I can't hardly get off the couch without assistance, one trip up the stairs and I feel/sound like I have run a marathon. My ankles and fingers are swelling, I haven't been able to wear my wedding ring for a few weeks now.

I am hoping the next 7 weeks fly by and Madelyn will be here before I know it!!!!

We start childbirth class tomorrow night!!

First Baby Shower!!!

Adam and I had our first baby shower for Maddy this weekend. Our good friends Justin and Kristen Bixler were sweet enough to throw us a couples shower, we were able to celebrate and visit with some of our closest friends and family. We are truly blessed to have so many great friends!! There was a lot of pink and tons of cute things, Adam and I had fun on Sunday putting it all away in Maddy's room. I can honestly say I have never heard Adam use the words "cute and precious" more then he did on Saturday night. He is so wrapped around Madelyn's finger and he doesn't even realize it yet.

Again we would like to say "Thank You" to Justin, Kristen and Jackson Bixler for throwing us such a beautiful shower!!!!

30 Weeks!!

I had my 30 week doctor appointment today, I saw Dr. Moore and he was really great. You can tell he has been delivering babies for a long time. At my doctor office I had to see every doctor at least once and as of today I have been seen by all of them, from here on out I can choose who I want. I definitely have my favorites!!!

We went over my blood tests and weight gain so far, everything looks normal and Dr. Moore wasn't concerned. He did give me a few tips on how much I should be gaining over the next few weeks and what I should cut out of my diet if I don't want a 10 pound baby. I really don't want a 10 pounder so I think I will take what he said to heart!!

As we were waiting for the doctor I had Adam put his hand on my belly in one particular area to feel how hard it was and as soon as he did Maddy kicked him. I think she is particular about what is her space.

The heartbeat was really strong and at each appointment you can tell how much louder and stronger it gets. Dr. Moore said I am measuring at about 31 weeks so I am right on target for my due date. I can't believe she will be here in a few more weeks! Our next appointment is March 20th!!