Heading for home

What's that you ask? Why it's the first belly shot (taken earlier this week at 36w1d in the master bath that's under rough construction) I've dared to share here :-)

Yesterday's OB visit found me still at 1 cm and 50% effaced so no change there. Alas, the original plan was to induce me this weekend, but the local hospital denied my OB's request since I'd be a day shy of their 37w requirement.

I'm now on the induction schedule for February 1st (37w5d). I'll check in the night before for Cervadil as was the case with J's birth. Now that we have a concrete plan (though it's subject to change if my BP and/or amniotic fluid don't cooperate between now and then), the pieces are falling into place. Arrangements have been made for family to come watch J while I'm in the hospital, a big sister present has been purchased, and so on. Alas, the word "bedrest" was spoken at yesterday's visit. So that's what I'm doing now--laying on the couch, enjoying the 'rest,' and dozing periodically (what a luxury).

There's still a possibility that I could go before my scheduled date. Yesterday's amniotic fluid dropped significantly from Friday's level (15.3 to 8.8). If things change, well, it's back to the big hospital for me and out for 2.0.

Basically, I've got 8 more days to go to induction. A and I are trying to set up a date night for this coming weekend (dinner followed by a show at the impr0v)...after all, we may not get to do that again for another couple of months once 2.0 is here.

I'm starting to get excited and less fearful. When I think about the fact that 2.0 will be here soon, I get a smile on my face. I can't wait to meet this little one and see what she looks like, what her personality is, how J will be as a big sister (she's taken to kissing my belly lately which goes beyond adorable--she walks up, lifts the shirt off my belly and plants one on it).

I'm in the homestretch now and looking forward to the reward at the end.

Please keep sending good thoughts my way for 8 more days of bake time. I can use all the good karma the universe has for me--and thank you for all of your support, concern, and love. They've meant more to me than you can know.