Well, I made it to week forty-one again!  In keeping with tradition, I’ll forgo a picture this week (not because I care that much, but because my camera is already packed for the hospital).  All our bags are ready to go!

As I explained yesterday, I am scheduled for an induction tomorrow morning.  It is still my prayer that labor would start naturally before then, but I am at peace knowing God will take care of us no matter what!  I am meditating on lots of encouraging and uplifting passages of Scripture, like these.  Thank you to all of you who left such sweet and encouraging comments on yesterday’s post.  It’s wonderful having friends like you to support me with love and prayers right now!

I’ve been getting things ready today (laundry, etc.) and just enjoying my time with Vera.  We took a walk together earlier (the weather is gorgeous!).  My mom is coming into town tonight, and I can’t wait to see her!

In other news, I measured my belly because I was curious.  I’m 38 inches around at the widest point!  I really wish I had measured with Vera because I’d like to know if I’m bigger/smaller/the same size this time.  For some reason, I felt bigger with her, but that could have been due to the summer heat and all of the swelling in my legs/feet. 

So… I’M HAVING A BABY TOMORROW!  Can’t wait for you all to “meet” her!!!!

Week forty-one with Vera.

Wanted to drop in with a brief baby update…

At my appointment today, we did a non-stress test and Baby Mango is doing great… her heart-rate is perfect and she is active.  My blood pressure is fine.  They also did an ultrasound and found that my amniotic fluid levels are unfortunately lower than they would like them to be.

Because of this (out of concern for the baby’s safety), the doctor scheduled me for an induction Thursday morning. 

I really would appreciate your prayers that my labor would start naturally before then!  If it does not, I would ask that you pray that I be at peace with letting go of my ideal birth experience.  This is an opportunity for me to grow in my trust of the Lord!  I am fighting against fear, so I appreciate your prayers for peace in my heart.

Thank you!

On my “to-do” list for the day:
-get a pedicure (some women swear this puts them in labor)
-eat a whole pineapple (ditto)
-walk, walk, walk!
-get last minute things together
-get a good night’s sleep!

I’m feeling pretty good this week, even though I’m hardly sleeping at night.  I think some of the birth adrenaline might be starting to kick in early (or maybe this is still the nesting instinct)!  I feel pretty energetic during the day and have trouble winding down at night.  I’m still trying to take naps in the afternoon when I can.

At my appointment yesterday my midwives and nurses were so encouraging.  They told me I look great, which made me feel good, since I’m practically popping out of my maternity clothes now.  They also reminded me of what a good birth experience I had with Vera because we waited and let things start naturally.  Mango’s heartbeat is strong, and all of my levels (iron, blood pressure, etc.) are good too.  She’s healthy and happy and obviously content to stay in there a little longer!

If you haven’t read my post about due dates yet, you should go read it!  According to some new (better) calculations, I really don’t think Mango is “due” until Saturday or Sunday (or even possibly Monday).  Even if she decides to come past those dates, it will be okay, since the Lord has a perfect birthday picked out for her!

Ways you can pray for us:
-for peace of mind and heart as we wait (some days more patiently than others!)
-for Mango’s health and safety
-for support from my midwives/doctors in my hopes/plans to have a natural start to the birth
-for labor to start soon and progress quickly, if that be the Lord’s will
-for another great natural birth experience
-for Vera as she adjusts to being a big sister

Week forty with Vera.