The end of another year

2008 has been quite a year, and I'm thrilled to be entering 2009, the year in which I will officially gain a daughter. We're quietly celebrating the new year at home with pizza, tiramisu, and Guitar Hero, and I'm excited to think that next year we'll more than likely be doing the same, only with her in our arms.

It's the most wonderful time

I like to think of all the things that this baby gets to experience while in the womb. Not like the actual sensations of being in there, but rather everywhere I take her. She's already been to Florida. She has been scrubbed into a surgical gown with her host wrist-deep in a dog's abdomen. And now she's attending her first Christmas Celebration Extravaganza (having so many families to visit calls for a formal title).

Not being religious I don't view this holiday as a celebration of any single person's birth and miraculous life, but rather more like an additional Thanksgiving--but BETTER. These two days are when I can go out and see every family member that has been there for my entire life and spend some time with them. We share a meal and (while not with everyone) we exchange gifts. Gifts, to me, are a way of saying "thank you for everything this past year." Of course there are some gifts to give out of obligation, but 98% of the time it's with genuine appreciation.

I wish there was a gift that showed Art and this unborn baby how much I love them, how much that love consumes me. I am so thankful to be spending this--our first married Christmas--together and expecting such an amazing addition to our little family. I love them so much. And I love this time of year: the extra kindness in people, the decorations, and heck...even the snow (for now!).

28 week photo

The comments I get from clients at work on my pregnant status have been amusing so far. From an exaggerated gasp to squeals of delight, it's certainly a conversation starter. I really like when I get tidbits of advice or encouragement. A new mom told me to start lifting weights now so I won't struggle as hard with the infant car seat. Another woman, after sighing reminiscently, said how much she loved nursing her babies--how precious their little hands are when they rest it on your chest during those priceless quiet moments. So far I've only had good conversations and I really appreciate all of them. It's making this final countdown all the more exiting for her big arrival!

3D Ultrasound

It was absolutely worth the money! Talk about a window into the womb, my goodness!

26 week photo

I feel her all the time now. And seeing her move is just the icing on the cake. I'm sure all this movement will get tiring when space is more limited, but for now I'm really enjoying the show.

Those budgies sure are starting to look a little funny though :)

No thanks, stirrups are for horses

I'm so happy I'm delivering with a midwife. So happy, happy, happy...

We did the hospital tour tonight and it went really well. The room you stay in after delivery is huge and comfy and they 100% encourage rooming-in with the baby, so that won't be a battle. In fact, the baby never has to leave your sight, which is even better. I did get all freaked out in the delivery room seeing how the bottom part of the bed drops away for the stirrups to come up, and then I remembered that I'll be delivering with a midwife. Thank you, thank you, thank you. I want to be in any position but on that bed with my feet propped up in the air, and these ladies will encourage me to deliver in any way I feel comfortable.

So, that was an exciting evening. And even though they were very full and busy right now, there were only like two babies in the nursery to oogle at; the rest were all staying with their moms :)