40 Weeks

How far along? 40 weeks, 1 day
*this picture seems much closer than the other bump photos...or maybe I'm really just that much bigger!

Baby fact: About the size of a small pumpkin, he probably weighs around 7 pounds.  My doctor's prediction is that he's not much bigger than that.

Symptoms: So this is the backache I've heard about!  After about 15 minutes of doing anything active (and active these days includes standing while watching the Olympics), my upper back really starts to hurt.  Otherwise, I've had Braxton Hicks contractions (my stomach becomes incredibly lopsided and tight) and a little bit of cramping.

Movement: Yep, but it's different now.  There's hardly any room in there!

Sleep: I get up about 1-2 times each night.  Not bad!  There are now multiple pillows surrounding me.  I definitely hog the bed.

Dreams: No, but my sister has been telling me about her's.  And Steve's had a few--one in which our baby came out with a killer sense of humor.

Cravings: Smoothies of any kind.  And Mighty O donuts.

Favorite moments: Seeing the excitement on the faces of our family members as they ask, discuss, and speculate about our baby's arrival.  Steve's family came through Seattle on their way to Canada for vacation, and it was so great to see all 7 Trudelles.

On the to-do list: I think I finally checked off most of the things from my list.  I guess I could continue organizing some spaces in our house, prep some meals, etc.  Then again, maybe I'll just watch the Olympics.

Looking forward to: The big day.  It's amazing how my emotions can fluctuate so quickly.  One minute I'm convinced he's coming today and my heart starts to race a bit.  The next minute, I'm perfectly calm and prepared to practice my yoga breathing and other strategies to get through the pain.  Giving birth is such an unknown, and preparing for it is a true test of patience and relying on faith.  I know the biggest adventure is still to come though--and I look forward (with a healthy dose of nervousness) to becoming a mother very soon.