Full-Term: 37 Weeks

Baby Center says, "Your baby is now considered 'full term,' even though your due date is three weeks away.  If you go into labor now, his (her) lungs will likely be mature enough to fully adjust to life outside the womb."  It also says, "Braxton-Hicks contractions may be coming more frequently now and may last longer and be more uncomfortable and it may be harder than ever to get comfortable enough to sleep well at night so if you can, take it easy through the day."

So...at 37 weeks I am SO READY to have this baby and yes, the Braxton-Hicks contractions are more frequent and more intense.  As for sleeping, "uncomfortable" is understatement and I definitely wish I had more time to take it easy through the day ;)  Yet, I am still enjoying this pregnancy and will miss feeling her kicks and nudges throughout the day and night.

Tomorrow I start those fun weekly appointments.  Although I do dread them, I look forward to hearing if I have made any progress.  With Alexis, I was 4 cm dialated for over a month and never went early.  With the boys, I was lucky to be 1 cm dialated when I was induced each time.  We will see!  Last week, I started taking Evening Primrose Oil and drinking Red Raspberry Leaf Tea.  I'm not sure I believe they induce labor...but anything can help, right? 

With recital just 4 days after my official due date, I am stressing out and wanting to plan...but how does one plan without knowing when baby will arrive???  Last week, we had dance pictures both Tuesday and Thursday nights from about 5:30 - 9:00 each night.  It was exhausting and crazy!!!  With 3 performances on Saturday and 3 on Sunday for the recital, I figured it out that Alexis will perform 21 times each day...that's 21 costume changes, 21 hair changes, and 6 make-up changes each day!  Just think, I have to go from pretty and curly to dead-looking (see picture below) for each performance and then back to pretty and curly for the next performance.  I am freaking out just a tiny bit. ;)  I'm also thinking I may just have to cut corners...and her instructors will have to understand.  If, however, anyone reading this is willing and available to help with hair and make-up changes recital weekend, PLEASE let me know.  I do have many volunteers to help with the baby...but quite honestly, I won't be ready to leave her behind for two days in a row from 9 am - 10 pm each day.  Besides, I am thinking I will be a necessity for those feedings every hour or two!

Well, I am sure I will be updating often in the next few weeks.  I'll keep everyone posted on the baby status!