This week's baby update

Tuesday we had a doctor appointment. Just a regular checkup. Everything is going great, so I didn't have too many questions for the doc. We heard the heart beat. I knew the baby was awake and active because I could feel her moving about, so the heart beat was good and strong. The doctor also measured my belly for the first time. Her response was, "Oh looks like you've got a big baby." I was surprised to hear this because I don't have a big bulging belly and I get quite a few reactions from people on a weekly basis that I am still not all that big. The doctor then looked at my chart and noted that based on my weight measurements for the day I had actually lost 3 pounds. She then started questioning my eating habits. I guaranteed her I'm eating but explained that I have been really busy and active lately. She said that even if I was active, I still need to be eating 6 meals a day, but that it was normal for women to lose a few pounds or to not gain a lot of weight if they are really active. I also ensured her that I drink a ton of water each day. She was happy to hear that and left it alone. After we left the office though I wondered why she said I had a big baby if I had lost 3 pounds. Guess I'll have to ask her at the next visit what she meant and how she can tell the baby is big. I'm SOOO hoping for a small baby, about 7 pounds or less if at all possible. I don't look forward to squeezing out a 9 pounder or something like that. Yikes!

On Wednesday, Shawn and I took a tour of Los Al hospital and the Labor and Delivery ward. It was a short tour with lots of info. Just like Shawn wanted it. I was glad we got to see the birthing suites, but I had hoped we would see the post-partum rooms as well. The suites are nice and simple, not that I was expecting a plasma tv or anything. Good news is the hospital does allow cell phone use in L&D since I know many hospitals don't want you using cell phones. But realistically who isn't using a cell to call people to tell them they are in delivery or that the baby has arrived? One funny thing we learned is no latex balloons are allowed in the hospital, which I am sure is due to allergies to latex, so they only allow mylar balloons. We also did the pre-admit paperwork because I know the last thing I want to worry about when I arrive at the hospital is trying to remember Shawn's SSN or name of employer for all the stupid paperwork.

As for what's on the baby agenda for next week: I need to take down the framed pictures that are in the guest room and pack away any knick knacks I'm keeping so I can start getting the nursery ready. Time is a ticking and we have about 15 weeks left until baby's arrival. I want to have the room ready though by September so I can relax a bit come the final weeks and also just in case she arrives early. Yes, that's me: Mrs. Planner.