36 weeks!

We made it! At this point, I could go into labor and have a baby that would not have to go to the NICU, as long as he is healthy. So, whenever you are ready, Baby, your mom and dad can't wait to meet you!! :)

The last week has been tough, but I would guess most women would say that about nearing the end of pregnancy. I stopped taking my Procardia (which has been working to relax my bladder and uterus enough that I don't contract all the time), in hopes that my contractions will get stronger soon, and I will eventually go into labor. Boy, can I tell a difference! Friday night and Saturday were rough. I contracted all the time. No, they weren't strong contractions, the kind that do anything labor-wise. I couldn't feel them much on my left side, and they're not the coming and going cramping that doubles me over. Instead, they irritate my stents/kidney area causing sharp right side pain as well as a constant right side back ache/cramp that wraps around to my right front. It's definitely worse when I have to get up, especially when I have a full bladder. My urologist told me to not let my bladder get too full because the stent is then pushed up to/into the kidney. For anyone that's pregnant or been pregnant, how the heck are you supposed to keep your bladder from filling? I've been told to drink lots and lots of water, so instead of peeing ever hour, I'm supposed to go every 30 minutes (or more). I also still feel like I have a UTI, but this is a normal symptom for having stents. Joy.

I haven't left the house much, just for appointments and to run a quick errand with Adam here or there. I've been given the ok to go out to eat a couple times a week, but it's been difficult. Adam took me to Ruby Tuesdays last night to celebrate 36 weeks, but I was so uncomfortable after a half hour of contracting and ureter and urethra pain. I got nauseous, and we took our food and went home. I felt really bad. Adam has been wonderful through this all, and he's so supportive. I'm so thankful for him. What a blessing he has been through this all!

Now it's just a waiting game! I'm considering going back on the Procardia and eventually getting induced if need be. I'm not sure, but I have a doctor appointment tomorrow, so I'll find out then. I'm still taking a Percocet every 6 to 8 hours for pain, and it really does help... for about an hour or two. I don't like to take it, as it is a narcotic and not the best for the baby, especially as I get closer to delivery, but I feel the little guy enjoys the little bits of relief and relaxation I get from it as well :) To my nursery co-workers, he's going to be the baby in the "naughty" chair next to the radio... and you are all invited over to my house to help when I go home, too!

That being said, I love him so much already, it's crazy!! And I really can't wait to meet him and hold him and love him! Not too long now :) Thanks everyone for your continued thoughts and prayers. You have been wonderful! Adam and I are truly blessed! Hopefully the next time I write will be between diaper changing and feeding time!