My last post was all about thanking those who have made this pregnancy easier... Today's post is a list of rules for everyone to follow when addressing myself or other pregnant women you may know. I have thought of this list after the last few weeks have grown increasingly uncomfortable. With yet another appointment with the doctor that gave me little hope of labor being imminent I have transitioned from glowing mommy to be to just another frustrated mother in the last weeks of her pregnancy... those who have been around me, may even classify me as angry and I would not be able to disagree. Keep that in mind as you read my list of rules as well as the fact that I will one day return to normal, or so I am told :) .
First of all, after 39 weeks of carrying this baby around, I am brutally aware of the fact that I look huge, and also tired. No need to point out that I am "so big" and looking "worn out". I got it, thank you. See photo evidence below.
Second, my due date is February 11th - one week from tomorrow. If I have told you this multiple times, please do not walk by my desk every day at work and question, "You're still here????" I will be here until at least February 11th unless something happens sooner. Again, thank you for your interest... kind of.
Next, unless you are currently as far along in a pregnancy as the woman you are addressing, you are not allowed to say ANYTHING about how she feels. For example, if a woman is a bit disappointed in her lack of progress toward labor, no amount of stories about how you delivered weeks late will make her feel better. In fact, if you tell her to relax and get some sleep she is more than likely going to "relax" by imagining you in any scenario that causes you to be as uncomfortable as she is as you have clearly forgotten that part of the process or you would not try to pacify her with these asinine suggestions.
These are just a few of the things that have recently come up that leave me to question the intelligence of some people. On the other hand, there are a few things you should definitely do if it makes you feel better including...
- Pay to have your house cleaned - seriously the best thing I have done for myself this entire pregnancy.
- Try the old wive's tales to induce labor even if they only make you look silly and don't necessarily do anything for inducing labor. If it gives you peace of mind, do it.
- Be kind to your spouse even if he has no idea how you are feeling and can't completely appreciate your situation. I am fully aware that I am going to become very dependent on him as a new life becomes dependent on me and that is one bridge I want intact when that time comes.
- Ask for help. This was especially hard for me, but I am so glad that I have learned to let some things go as the list of things that needs to be done is about to double.
- Accept gifts from generous friends! I got a couple of great gifts this week including a mommy survival kit and a handmade quilt for Cameron's cradle as well as some diaper money for our baby boy. This just reminds me that for every person who says something annoying, there is someone who has been incredibly supportive!
Now I know what you are thinking... I am a bitter bitter woman, but I am hoping that this part is fleeting and that in as little as a week I will be holding our amazing baby boy in my arms. I have yet to get to the point where I am worrying about the pain or discomfort of labor, and have fast-forwarded to being excited to see Kevin hold Cameron for the first time and being able to introduce our little man to the world. See, I'm not always angry
Let's end on that semi-positive note and head onto the FAQ!
How are you sleeping?: Not more than a couple hours at a time. I am ready for the late night feeding schedule!
What was the best moment this week?: My momma came down to babysit me per Kevin's request as he had to head out of town for work. She spent a couple nights with me and we got to just hang out.
Do you miss anything?: I just cut up oranges for Kevin's Blue Moon to enjoy during the Super Bowl... kinda miss being able to have one of those!
Cravings?: I wasn't having any until my friend Michelle put a box of cosmic brownies into my mommy survival kit... now I want them all the time!
Mood lately?: Not so hot. Just ready to have a baby in my arms and not my belly.
What are you looking forward to?: I am really looking forward to Kevin meeting Cameron. I have been carrying him around for a while and feel like we are bonded, but it will be interesting to see Kevin when he is handed a baby for the first time.
Maternity Clothes?: Hanging in there with what I have. No point in adding anything this far along.
Stretch Marks?: My three red dots are officially stretch marks, but are on my hip. Not too noticeable so I figure I have gotten off easy so far.
Have a good week everyone, and if it isn't too much trouble, send some prayers our way that a sweet baby boy joins us this week!
