Thursday, September 24, 2009

37 Weeks!

Well we're at 37 weeks and counting. Basically Emma can arrive at any point in time, so the unknown just adds to the anticipation!

We've completed our Bradley Classes and I am feeling much more confident in my ability to tackle this marathon of bringing a new human into this world. So informative and empowering.

The bags are packed, well mostly. I have a clothing bag for Aaron & myself, a labor bag with all the goodies for working through labor (rice socks, Bradley book, robozo and so on). Also packed Emma's bag (in her new Petunia Pickle Bottom Boxy Backpack diaper bag - another superb Craigslist find).

We've had a couple showers now, one thrown by Aaron's work where we received a ton of great gifts and one in College Station with dear friends and family. We've got one more this weekend, this is one blessed little girl and she's not even here yet! Here are some pics of the shower in College Station.

Also, Aaron and I took some maternity pictures. I think that a woman's body while pregnant is one of the most beautiful things. It is a beautiful picture of God's awesome creativity and the miracle of crafting new life. Hope you enjoy!

Thursday, September 03, 2009

For My Sister...

So, this post is because my wonderful sister Rachel requested an update of information; complete with suggested topics. :) So, here we go....

Topic One: Bradley Classes
For those of you who don't know we are taking the Bradley route in prepartion for Emma's arrival. Aaron and I have really enjoyed the experience so far. You know they say "knowledge is power" and I completely agree; we're learning the in's and out's of the body, the birth process, exploring all avenues and possibilities. Learning how to cope in stressful situations; and being deeply invested in the process required to make Emma's transition into this world as smooth as possible. So, we have 3 classes left and feel pretty solid about our birth plan and with the knowledge we've gained so far.

Topic Two: How I'm Feeling
Well, I feel pregnant! Frankly, I've never felt so much at home and like a stranger in my own body before! I love being pregnant and sustaining another life. I'm definitely finding that my energy is dropping down again; so I'm more conscious of my protein intake, rest and exercise just so I make it through the day without dropping dead at night. :) Some nights I get more rest than others, but at the very least I'm prepped for several interruptions in the middle of the night :)

Topic Three: What I look like
I look like I'm carrying a basketball that weighs as much as a bowling ball. :) Generally I'm not one to flaunt, but everyone's saying "you're all baby" so I guess we'll see how that pans out. Thankfully I haven't had any significant swelling or stretch marks to this point in time; which is really nice. I've posted a few pics of me, so you can see the largeness that is Sarah + Emma!

Topic Four: Emma's Room
We completed the dresser (click for pics) so we have that in the room now. I also hung Emma's clothes in the closet. We put some shelves we had in the closet for some storage and I emptied my hopechest and we have it in there now so we can use that for blankets and more storage; also I'll probably make a cushion to fit on it so it doubles as a bench. So, we're still waiting to get the bed and bedding; changing table and rocker/glider. Still a lot of big pieces missing, but its improved from the empty room it's been over the last month. :)

Topic Five: How's Aaron...
Aaron is doing well. He's working hard at his job and has long days, but still comes home and interacts with me & Emma. He is finishing his final class for his MBA, he has class on Thursday evenings and he'll graduate in December, yeah!! He's been great with all the Bradley classes, embracing his role as a coach and supporting me and Emma through the labor and delivery process. I love him and couldn't ask for a more perfect person to walk this life with!!

Ok, I feel I've filled my requirement for now! Love you Rachel and thank you for giving me direction in what to write! Can't wait to see you, Sherman and June again!!