34 Weeks

 

How far along: 34 weeks - EDD 09/10/15

 

How big is baby: The size of a butternut squash - She is can recognize and react to simple songs, and may reckons them after birth,

 

What are we having: A sweet baby girl

 

Symptoms this week: Back pain and some serious contractions. At my last OB appointment I was told it's only an issue if they're regular, increasing in strength, and last over an hour. So far I've made it to an hour and then they go away. I hope baby girl isn't planning on making to early of an appearance.

 

Weight gain/loss: I either held steady at 20 total, or I gained a pound. The scale flips back and forth between the same couple of numbers each day or so. I haven't had any rapid gain or loss though, so that's what matters.

 

Food aversions/cravings: Anything? My stomach is so crushed that I can only eat small portions, but then I feel hungry all of the time. I pretty much spend my days snacking.

 

The baby belly: She's moving down! All of my contractions have apparently paid off. She hasn't fully dropped, but I feel like I've regained some use of my lungs. Of course, the lower position is causing tons of pressure and back strain, but it's a small price to pay for breathing.

 

Movement: She is still moving a ton, and it is incredibly obvious. Her torso and butt can clearly be seen, and her legs protrude out quite far at times. She has started getting hiccups at least once a day, and sometimes they're so strong my whole belly jumps. She seems to get annoyed when they don't go away quickly, and will start squirming around.

 

What is freaking me out: It's August and I could potentially have a baby this month. I'm no where near caught up to where I'd like to be at work and it's starting to really make it hit home that I'm going to be on maternity leave soon. I need to get prepared on that front, but at least we're ready to go at home!

 

What I'm totally loving: I'd say I'm loving contractions and the baby dropping, but she needs to hang in there until at least 37 weeks. I just want her to get to that safety point, and then she can do whatever she wants.

 

What I'm looking forward to: I'd love to say that I'm looking forward to cooler weather, but we've been around 100 for a couple of weeks and it doesn't look like it's going anywhere anytime soon. If this heat keeps up, I'll definitely be looking forward to having my torso to myself and being able to actually cool myself down with less effort.