Elsie and I went to see Dr. Wall this morning for my 32 week appointment. Everything is looking good from his standpoint: my blood pressure is good (104/70 this morning. Blood pressure changes during pregnancy because of the increase in volume of blood and relaxation of blood vessels caused by hormones), the baby has a strong heartbeat, my fundal height (how high the uterus is in my abdomen/helps show baby's growth) measures right at 32 weeks, and her little head is down, getting ready for its much anticipated exit.
From my standpoint, everything is good, as well. I continue to feel lots of movement, although it is much gentler than what I experienced with Elsie. I have regained my ability to sleep. I feared the insomnia I have been experiencing would last until the end, like it did with Elsie; however, over the past few weeks I have been able to fall asleep when going to bed and after getting up with Elsie throughout the night. I have occasional heartburn, but Tums is an easy solution for that. It is really sporadic and I haven't had any since last weekend. Elsie and I have been getting out for walks and are thankful for this burst of good weather and temperatures. I also have occasional discomfort in my hips and tailbone. I think this is residual from Elsie's birth - things tend to shift when you push a 7 lb. baby through your pelvis. Also, since I was not lying on my back, my tailbone was able to move "freely" out of the way when Elsie was born, not returning to it's original spot. It's usually only after a day of cleaning or little rest that I have any pain.
Many people ask if Elsie has any clue about the baby. The answer is no - she has no idea what is about to rock her world. Although she loves babies, I am not sure how she will react to one that Mom has to hold, nurse, and take care of 24/7. I think initially it will be very hard for her (and me), but I think she will get over it (so will I). Or - she may end up not being effected much at all (I doubt it). Who knows. It will definitely be an interesting ride!
My due date still stands at Dec. 30th. I am not hoping for a Christmas baby. I do not want her to have to share her special day. Although in some regards, a Christmas birthday may just make it all the more special. I also do not want a New Year's Day baby. We could really use the extra tax break this year :) So lets aim for the 26th through the 30th.
