39 Weeks

              The first few days of March changed my life.....That was when I found out we were going to have a baby. And now I'm here 39 weeks later (ok... 38 weeks and 6 days- but I'm practically there) and I know that I'm only days away from having my life changed yet again. I woke up this morning thinking that I will be pregnant for the rest of my life. As my sweet friend Juliana reminded me, this is not the case....this time next month I will be holding the little baby that is curled up tightly in my womb.  I praise God for the last 39 weeks. His faithfulness has been evident. His goodness indescribable. His love unconditional. Just as I had no idea what 9 months of pregnancy would look like in March, I find myself at the cross roads again having no idea what to expect for the next 18plus years of my life will look like either. But I do know that God will continue to reveal Himself to me and my family. He will continue to be faithful and good and loving...regardless of the future. I have no idea what day Julia will decide to arrive....her due date (Nov 7)? Before? After? But I get to wake up every morning knowing that today could be the day!

                 I've been going to see my doctor every week the last 3 weeks and will continue to do so until Julia decides to arrive. The doctor seems to be pleased with the progression I have made so far and she is always such an encouragement for me. After weeks of feeling as if I am gaining too much weight, I was assured that my weight gain is completely normal for where I am right now in pregnancy and I should be proud of it (26 lbs). The swelling in my hands, feet, and ankles continue to be a problem for me but since my blood pressure is still within the normal range I have nothing to be concerned about....but I certainly look forward to the day that I can wear my wedding rings and regular cute shoes again. :) As the days of Julia's arrival quickly approaches I have been reverting back to my hormonal self which results in lots of tears over silly things. Since the weather has been cooling off more, my love for walking has been rekindled! I try to walk as much as I can for as long as I can....I think part of that is to "jump start" labor though. I also bought an exercise ball for the laboring process and have enjoyed some exercises on it as well. I know that "after baby workout" routines are going to be challenging but I'm grateful that I have a husband who will encourage me and hold me accountable to living a healthy lifestyle no matter what the circumstances of life bring. I enjoy Julia's movements so much the last few weeks because I am beginning to realize that I will never feel this particular feeling again with her. It is a special thing about pregnancy that I am grateful the Lord created for me to feel. With the nursery complete and baby purchases slimming down, I am finally able to enjoy my days a little bit more. I certainly don't feel as stressed to get things done before the baby comes but I am soaking in this unique time and anticipating what is ahead.