31 weeks: Showers and Baby Showers

I spent the majority of last week at the hospital being monitored for my blood pressure and contractions. Actually, I spent the majority of last week in the hospital trying to find a few potato wedges that went missing in my bed after my first night’s dinner there while also trying my hardest to trap gas in a blanket every time someone walked in (impossible because a blanket can only contain so much). My timing was impeccable – the second I felt comfortable enough to let one rip, some poor unsuspecting nurse or Eucharistic minister would walk in. Occasionally, and not without a fight, Nate would agree to take the fall, but he wasn't always with me. 

As my uterus grows, the more irritated it becomes. I’ve mentioned before that I’m not allowed to go into labor because of my special cerclage and the risk of uterine rupture due to a previous classical c-section scar. This is scary business, but in all honesty, I wasn’t afraid while I was at the hospital because if something were to happen, well – it’s the best damn place to be. The good news is that the doctor doesn’t think I’ll go into labor anytime soon (there’s a test for this called an FFN and mine came out negative), but we do still have to keep an eye on my blood pressure and the contractions. As for my cervix – it’s still being a Michael Phelps – long and strong.  

I had a pretty uneventful stay (thank God). I pretended I was staying at a resort in Newport Beach, which really wasn’t too far off from reality. Hoag is a really nice hospital and I had a beautiful view of my favorite fried chicken place and a glimpse of the water. I got to pick out breakfast, lunch, and dinner every day (including dessert for almost every meal!). The food wasn’t all that great (except for the chocolate cake), but I appreciate the care the nurses and doctors provided. They never once made me feel crazy with all the questions I asked.  They never turned away in disgust and instead chose to lie to my face about me not smelling completely rank from not being able to take a shower for 2 days. They were afraid I'd faint due to my blood pressure dropping too low from all the meds I was on.  I was able to hear Baby Girl on the monitor whenever I wanted, which is the music of my heart that keeps me going every single day. It was a good stay.

I didn’t know they would keep me for that long though, so I was a bit worried that I wouldn’t make the baby shower my family had planned for Sunday. Luckily, everything checked out ok and my doctor felt confident I was ready to go home after 4 days.

My family threw an amazing celebration for me, Nate, and Baby Girl. It took me a really long time to be ok with the idea of a shower – those of you who’ve been reading my posts for the last few months know how terrified I’ve been about planning for the future.  I’m so glad I agreed to it though. They did a beautiful job! The day was filled with good food, friends, and the most wonderful family anyone could ever ask for. There was so much love felt that day. It was a true celebration of life -  a way to honor this baby girl growing inside of me. She is so very, very loved and loved by so very, very many.

I won’t lie and say I’m not afraid we’ve tempted fate, but I’m sticking to the game plan of taking it one day, one breath, one step at a time. That’s what keeps me from losing my mind. 

We are at 31 weeks! Next week we start fetal testing at the hospital. I’ll be going twice a week for that and still be getting my shots, as well. It’s all worth it though – I’ll do whatever it takes to get her here safe and sound. We’re almost there.

A few nights ago, I even hopped in one of those motorized shopping carts like every lazy body in the future uses in the movie Wall-E. In a rare outing to Target, my uterus demanded that I stop walking and use one. I’ve always been curious about them, but too embarrassed to try one out because laziness is not a valid reason to do so.  But seriously - as soon as my ass hit that seat, the heavens parted, angels started singing and I realized I’ve been missing out in life! Wow, they’re awesome! No wonder you see so many people using them at Disneyland! Nate, the most anti-lazy person I know, ran away every time I backed up and the reverse warning system would start beeping super loud throughout the store, but I chased after him at 3 mph yelling at him to wait for me. The nerve.

Anyway, 31 weeks and going SO STRONG! We are on our way, Baby Girl. On our way. 

Every day it's a-gettin' closer. Hang on, Little Love Bug...and stay calm, Uterus.