38 weeks: My LAST Bryson bumpdate

Pregnancy is an incredible thing.  I marvel at the complexity of a woman's body.  From conception through breastfeeding, a woman's body is amazing.  By the time most women learn of their impending arrival, the little one's heart and circulatory system are already functioning.  When breastfeeding, a woman's body knows exactly what her baby needs and produces the exact combination for maximum nutrition.

I've spent the last few months watching with amazement as my body followed a distinct road map to transition into Bryson's temporary home.  My blossoming belly has become his shelter, nurse, pillow, blanket, and favorite restaurant.  Oh, I almost forgot- it has also become his jungle gym. :)

My belly has also transformed into so much more.  For me, it has become a source of happiness when the stresses of life creep in.  When I get overwhelmed or upset, feeling my little guy squirming around instantly removes any negative emotions I feel.  Watching his little leg and foot extend in the ultrasound video is enough to completely remove me from a bad situation and transport me to a much happier place.  My belly is also a bridge between Clay and me.  We have a great relationship- one that I've dreamed of my entire life- but knowing that we created this little wiggle worm has strengthened our bond.  Seeing a muscular man's man talk to his son in utero is enough to make any girl weak in the knees.

While pregnancy isn't the most pleasant experience, it is the most pleasant experience.  Swollen feet and terrible back pain are often enough to bring the strongest woman to her knees (and make it difficult to get up), but baby kicks and hiccups make it all worth it.  I have spent countless hours staring at my belly in sheer bewilderment.  I love feeling and watching him move.  His playtime (or ninja skills practice) is the first activity that Bryson and I will ever do together.  For a few brief months, this little boy and I are joined together and I get to enjoy precious private time with my son, with no interruptions... and I don't have to share him.  Over the last few months, I've watched him learn and respond to mine and Clay's voices; I've seen him develop a little personality and learned he's a little feisty because he gets annoyed when he starts hiccuping... AGAIN.  I've watched as he curiously explored any and everything place on my belly, from a puppy paw to a Doppler.

While I can't wait to hold this little guy in my arms and to kiss each and every finger and toe, I have no doubt I'll miss our quiet times of solitude. I am more than thrilled to know that we will meet our little guy in 7 days or less.  Until then, I will relish the time that I have left to feel him stretch and wiggle.

How far along? 38 weeks

Baby's size:  Roughly 7 pounds and he could be 19-20 inches long

Total weight gain/loss:  29 pounds!  That means I'll just hit the 30 pound goal!!

Stretch marks?  I have some superficial ones below my belly button.  They still aren't ridged, so I'm hoping they're the disappearing variety. :)

Sleep?  Some nights, I sleep really well.  Others, notsomuch.

Best moment this week:  Scheduling the induction!!!  Unless he really gets impatient, our little man gets his eviction notice at 6 AM on Tuesday, July 3!

Worst Moment: Spending days thinking labor was imminent but not meeting our little guy.

Cravings: Nothing really.  I satisfied my peach craving with a cobbler (made with whole wheat flour, almond milk and Splenda, of course)

Symptoms:  I'm beginning to have labor signs!  I've lost part of my plug and am experiencing severe period-like cramps in my lower back.  I am having contractions, but they're still few and far between.  

Miss Anything?  Laying on my belly

Movement:  He's still a wiggle worm, but his movements have changed a great deal, even since Sunday.  He's definitely running out of room.

Anything making you queasy or sick?  Contractions!

Moody:  Nope, not really.

Wedding Rings On or Off?  Engagement ring is in my jewelry box, my wedding band is on and comfy.

Sex:  Baby Boy!

What is baby up to?  The bones in his arms and legs have hardened.  He is already very strong and is able to grasp the umbilical cord or can curl his hands into little balls.  Woo hoo!  That means he can also grasp mommy's fingers!!!