9 Months

Oh my goodness.  I can't believe it's been almost a month since my last post.  There is so much to tell.  Here are some of our maternity photos taken by my good friend and free photographer, Joy:

We are planning on taking a few more outside pictures this week since the weather wasn't really cooperating when we took these.

We have now had a few showers, so now we have lots of empty baby things around the house.

 

Some of my baby clothes made an appearance at the shower.

I was so emotional when I opened the tiniest pearl bracelet I have ever seen.

Lots of stuff for Daddy to put together.

My mom, my childhood Sunday school teacher, and I.

Guests recieved mini champagne bottles to POP when Aubrey is born.  Instead of a guestbook, friends wrote encouraging messages for mommy and daddy to read as we start changing diapers.

Hairbow making station

More good stuff for Aubrey

I have one more shower next week that my co-workers are giving me.  I feel so loved.  Looking at the empty carseat, stroller, pack n' play, swing, bassinet, and nursery every day is really making me anxious for this little one to arrive.

Here's an update:

How far along? 36 weeks (9 months!)

Total weight gain: 30 lbs.

Maternity clothes? All bottoms and most dresses and tops.

Stretch marks? No.  I'm hoping they won't rear their ugly head right at the end.

Sleep: I am waking up more in the middle of the night to pee.  I am also having a hard time getting comfortable.  My feet are supposed to be above my heart to help with the swelling, but if I'm not sitting up my acid reflux really bothers me.

Best moment of the week: Seeing Aubrey via ultrasound on Monday.  Her current estimated weight is 6 lbs. and 2 oz.  She is head down and healthy.  It looked like she was sucking her thumb in part of the video.

Miss anything? Being able to get a full night's sleep.  I'm sure that's only going to get worse.

Movement: I'm mostly feeling her rolling.  Space is getting a little more cramped in there.  Her head keeps burrowing into my pelvis.  Hopefully she knows that is not her exit route.

Food cravings: Nothing specific.

Food aversions: No big ones lately.

Gender: Girl

Labor signs: I am feeling lots of pressure down there.

Symptoms: I finally broke down and bought some compression stockings to wear when I get home to help with the swelling in my feet.  They are helping some.

Belly button in or out? Pretty much flat.

Wedding rings on or off? Off.  I have been faking it and wearing stretchy rings.  It just wasn't worth risking having to have my engagement or wedding band cut off.

Looking forward to: My birthday this Sunday!  We are also meeting with a doula on Sunday.  If everything goes well at the meeting, we will have an expert in the delivery room with us to help us through labor.  I'm sure that will be worth every penny.