38 Week Check Up

I had a much better doctor visit today. This doctor didn't open the door and drop his black bag full of pitocin, induction and epidurals in my lap. He checked and I am 1 centimeter dilated and 50% effaced which means I could go into labor tonight or in a couple weeks:) The end is such a sit and wait game. They gave me a copy of the on call list and my favorite doctor is on call the 4th, 12th and the 16th so think happy delivery thoughts on those days. My mom and aunt's birthday is the 12th so I am hoping for that day. I'll keep everyone posted!

Yard Work

We have spent most of the weekend out in our yard. We had some new sod put down, bought some new plants and re-arranged our patio. Russ had a great idea to nail hooks into the fence to hang some of Sams' toys on to get them off the new grass. I am all about organization and I love it when he has a great idea like that.

Of course Sam was right in the middle of all our work helping out. He loves to water the plants and help Russ pot the plants. He also loves to dig in the dirt and rub it in his hair, on his chest and put piles of it all over the yard!

I have felt great this weekend and had a lot of energy. I am much better organized since my scare the other night. The next time I start with those contraction I won't be running around wondering where the camera is. I am ready to go:)



Notice the toys hung up on the fence in the background...

Enlarge to see Sam covered in a fine layer of dirt...

37 Week Check-Up

The doctor, who I had never seen before, opened the door and said:

Dr: So do you want to talk about inducing labor?

Me: Uh, no. I am 37 weeks pregnant.

Dr: Aren't you ready to get that baby out of you? I am sure you want your body back.

Me: Uh, no. They will come when they are good and ready. I actually enjoy being pregnant.

Dr: Bet you can't wait to get that epidural.

And it continued on from there. He had not even bothered to read my chart or look at my birth plan. Oh, I hope he is not on call when I go into labor. The two of use would have an interesting time together.

I had some pretty significant contractions last night which surprised me. It has prompted me to really get my act together and get organized. Sam was 3 days late but this little one could very well come early.

I love these last weeks of pregnancy. With quarters so cramped you can see all of the limbs so strong now swimming around- kicking and pushing on my ribs. I will miss the movement after they are born. There is nothing like it and I will remember every detail forever. What an amazing 37 weeks we have had together. I can't wait to hold you in my arms.

Sweet Boy

Sam is a very sweet boy. He doesn't torment our cats for the most part and is a real cuddler with mama. He is also a sleepyhead. He sleeps in to 8 or 8:30 every day and a lot of times is awake but still in his crib just taking his time waking up. He is in no hurry to get up. I have visions of a teenage Sam sleeping to one o'clock in the afternoon...

As I carried him down the stairs this morning with his head rested on my shoulder still waking up, he pulled his head back to get a good look at me. He smiled, held my face in his hands and gave me the sweetest kiss. At this age I am usually chasing him down for kisses. I can't think of a better way to start my day...

Ready to Pop!

We had a really great time away last night. We relaxed by the pool- although I will admit I wimped out and did not put on my suit or go in. When you see these pictures you might understand why. It was packed so we sat poolside with some tropical drinks. I had punch off of the kids menu while Russ had a couple Mai Tai's. We napped, had a delicious dinner at an Emeril restaurant and were in bed by 10. Boy how things have changed!

And here may be one of the last pictures in the belly installment series...

Off We Go...

Russ and I decided to squeeze in a night away before the baby is born because we won't be going anywhere for some time after that! We are going to a local hotel and have a great dinner planned. I am even going to sit by the pool and go swimming in all my pregnant glory. I did buy a cover up so not to scare the other hotel guests away. Pa Pa and Mum Mum are coming over to stay at our place with Sam- they are very excited to do an overnight with him. We will take some picture because I just realized it is time for my monthly belly update picture. The months have flown by- one more to go...

HAPPY BIRTHDAY!

Happy Birthday to Stella and Thomas who turn 4 today:)

Birthday Fun...

Sam had such a great time at Stella and Thomas' birthday party. He wasn't sure of the bounce houses at first but he warmed up to the idea quickly as you will see. He also got to spend some time with our old nanny Miss Kelly. He was so happy to see her and really had a good time playing with her. Thanks you Miss Kelly and Russ for running after Sam for over an hour and a half since I couldn't keep up. Great party Amy:) I think we will be going back soon.

No fear...



Down the slide with Stella and Miss Kelly...