33 weeks

The weeks keep ticking by and our baby continues to grow. Pumpkin moves around in different ways now. The kicking has shifted under tighter quarters to rolling and bulging movements. The big sisters get a laugh out of watching the rising and poking motions of Pumpkin that can be seen on my belly.

33 weeks

I have gotten to the uncomfortable phase of pregnancy. My belly feels very heavy and I get exhausted some days. Last Sunday after Mass I was really tired but it was the annual local Arts Festival, which I wanted to go to. I went into my room to change out of my dress and laid down on the bed for a minute only to wake up 2 hours later. I guess I really needed a nap. I have been lucky to be able to take naps this pregnancy. Now that all of the girls are in school everyday I have enjoyed the luxury of napping when Ben naps in the afternoon when I need it. Being this pregnant makes me realize the things I take for granted: the ability to bend over, the ability to carry large things or heavy things, walking without stressing out some muscle, lemonade and apple juice or any spicy food. And I miss the time when the phrase "I just threw up in my month" was funny and not literal.

I've had 2 doctors appointments since I last blogged about this pregnancy. I really like my OB, and I am happy to know that she remembers my explanation of fast deliveries and takes it seriously. I have been having contractions every day for the past few weeks. They aren't regular but this is the same pattern as with the other girls, so my OB checked me at my 30 week appointment and was glad to know I haven't dilated. I was 30% effaced so we know the contraction are doing something. This coming week I'll probably be checked again. The contractions are inconvenient when trying to get daily activities accomplished. It is tough to actually stop what I am doing and let the discomfort pass so most of the time I just slow down a little but keep going.

I went through the baby items I have kept and we do have most of the major gear items, like the swing and bouncer seat. We do need the carseat/stroller travel system so Jim and I went to the store today and picked it out. Jim's parents sent us money for a gift for Pumpkin so we will pick it up next week when a coupon is active. Along with the gear I saved a lot of outfits, but I realized she'll need some of the basics plus we need new bedding. Today we did pick out a quilt set and that feels really good. This is what we got.

Things are starting to come together.

We also got floor plans for a rear addition to go over today and I am glad that the home renovation plans are moving again. It has been such a schizophrenic stopping and starting and shifting of plans since we decided we needed to do something. We'll be making the actual decision on what changes we will be making in the next few weeks and I pray God leads us to the right one. I want a plan in place but I am trying not to stress out that we don't have one yet. The business of our daily life keeps my mind occupied, God's grace keeps me peaceful and Pumpkin keeps me hopeful.