Right on schedule

On Monday at 7:05 pm (swedish time) our son Éomer was born through c-section. Not what we had planned but it was what was best for the baby. He got really stressed in the end and they decided it was the best alternitive.

I will write a longer more detailed note on the labour when I have more energy. I have hardly slept since half past three on Monday morning.

w 39 - Merry Christmas!

It's quite weird to think this is the last week really. I mean, at Christmas last year I was quite depressed and very un-pregnant and we decided to take a break from everything even remotely connected with making babies. When I think about it we only had sex once under those fertile days and that was enough. Especially since we did our best to have as much as possible before we took the break and it didn't work. ;-) It took eight months to create this miracle that is now growing under my heart. Now all that is left is to see when it decides to grace the world with its presence. ;-) I rather hope it will be fashionably late and come after new years. I have promised my mother in law, who is working for the hospital driving ambulances around here not to go into labour while we are here. She has never gone on a labour call before. And seriously, I don't wish her to be there when I go into labour, my darling will be just enough. ;-)

My feet has gone hobbit-size now. It's not a pretty sight I promise you. But I'm ok. I try my best to sit with my feet up to prevent them from getting bigger. My hands are also larger than usual. But I'm ok with that as long as Peanut decides to stay inside until after New years. ;-)

My darling bought the first Christmas gifts for Peanut today. One of them is a bear which will be packed in the bag we're taking to the delivery room, the other I don't know because I had left the store when he bought it. I'm sure it's something cute.

Your pregnancy: 39 weeks Peanut: Your baby's waiting to greet the world! He continues to build a layer of fat to help control his body temperature after birth, but it's likely he already measures about 20 inches and weighs a bit over 7 pounds, a mini watermelon. (Boys tend to be slightly heavier than girls.) The outer layers of his skin are sloughing off as new skin forms underneath. See what your baby looks like this week.

Note: Every baby develops a little differently — even in the womb. Our information is designed to give you a general idea of your baby's development.

Me: At each of your now-weekly visits, your caregiver will do an abdominal exam to check your baby's growth and position. She might also do an internal exam to see whether your cervix has started ripening: softening, effacing (thinning out), and dilating (opening). But even armed with this information, there's still no way for your caregiver to predict exactly when your baby is coming. If you go past your due date, your caregiver will schedule you for fetal testing (usually a sonogram) after 40 weeks to ensure that it's safe to continue the pregnancy. If you don't go into labor on your own, most practitioners will induce labor when you're between one and two weeks overdue — or sooner if there's an indication that the risk of waiting is greater than the risks of delivering your baby without further delay.

While you're waiting, it's important to continue to pay attention to your baby's movements and let your caregiver know right away if they seem to decrease. Your baby should remain active right up to delivery, and a noticeable slowdown in activity could be a sign of a problem. Also call if you think your water may have broken. Membranes rupture before the beginning of labor in about 8 percent of term pregnancies. Sometimes there's a big gush of fluid, but sometimes there's only a small gush or a slow leak. (Don't try to make the diagnosis yourself. Call even if you only suspect you have a leak.) If you rupture your membranes and don't start contractions on your own, you'll be induced.

We have arrived

Or actually, we arrived saftely to my father in law on Saturday. But I've tried to be as social as can be and therefore not had the time to update here. I'm trying to take it easy and just rest and let everybody else do the hard work for once. Luckily enough my brother in law's new girlfriend is activating the children, making candy and stuff.

On the downside my car, which I lended to my brother in law, broke down just as they arrived up here. I'm glad they at least got here. Not that it's my fault really, but I still feel responsible! I really don't have time to worry about that as well. :-(

I'm glad to say that Peanut doens't seem to want to come out early at least. I so hope for the baby to stay in until after New Years... Well, one can dream, can't one? :-)

My midwife cries rest!

Yes, my blood pressure was a bit higher than usual today. We tried taking it three times, but it wouldn't come down to a satisfying rate. But she didn't think it was any problem. Just some need of good rest. So she said to lay down a bit more than I have this week. Easy for her to say! It's Christmas next week! Who has time to take it easy? We leave for the north tomorrow to go and stay with my father in law and visit my darling's relatives. I have said that as soon as I feel it's getting close to starting we're leaving! But I am still pretty sure Peanut won't come until next year. But you never know...

Otherwise everything looked great. Peanut's little heart beat with 151 beats/ minute, the poor thing had the hiccups! The head was still not fixed, but movable, but it's likely to stay that way even if labour should start. I got another time for a meeting on the 7th of January. God that feels like ages away! If peanut's not out yet we have to schedule to induce labour before the 12th. Hopefully it won't come to that.

Ah, well, I'm off to the couch again then... I will keep you posted on what's going on!

w 38 - Maternity leave

"So, how does it feel to be on leave?" The question started coming on Friday even before I went home for the day. Yes well... I haven't been really off yet, have I? Today it still feels like I'm off sick or on vacation. I can't really say. But it's kind of nice just being home, minding my own business, taking it easy. Of course it feels weird not to get up in the morning, getting ready for work as usual. But my schedule is kind of full this week anyway. Yesterday I had dinner with the girls. Lots of baby talk of course, today I'm making sheets for the cradle out of old sheets from grandma's, tomorrow I'm going to take my picture for my new drivers licence and visiting a friend at work, and on Friday I'm off to the antenatal clinic again and checking out the Christmas market at Skansen. So it's not like I'm getting bored just yet. And next week, well it's Christmas!

My mother's bought a coverall for Peanut. One of those fuzzy things with ears and a little tail. Very cute. S/he won't be cold when we drive home from the delivery room anyways. :-) We have also finally ordered the car seat from our insurance company, we decided to rent throughout the first years. Much cheaper really and the last chair we get to keep. Very good indeed!

Your pregnancy 38 weeks:
Peanut: Your baby has really plumped up. She weighs about 6.8 pounds and she's over 19 1/2 inches long (like a leek). She has a firm grasp, which you'll soon be able to test when you hold her hand for the first time! Her organs have matured and are ready for life outside the womb.

Wondering what color your baby's eyes will be? You may not be able to tell right away. If she's born with brown eyes, they'll likely stay brown. If she's born with steel gray or dark blue eyes, they may stay gray or blue or turn green, hazel, or brown by the time she's 9 months old. That's because a child's irises (the colored part of the eye) may gain more pigment in the months after she's born, but they usually won't get "lighter" or more blue. (Green, hazel, and brown eyes have more pigment than gray or blue eyes.)

See what your baby looks like this week.

Note: Every baby develops a little differently — even in the womb. Our information is designed to give you a general idea of your baby's development.

Me: For many women, the next couple of weeks are a waiting game. Use this time to prepare your baby's nursery or to take care of necessary tasks you may not get around to for a while after your baby's born. Take naps, catch up on your reading, and spend uninterrupted time with your partner while you can.

Some swelling in your feet and ankles is normal during these last weeks, but call your practitioner without delay if you notice excessive or sudden swelling of your feet or ankles, more than slight swelling of your hands, any swelling in your face or puffiness around your eyes, or have a sudden weight gain. Also let her know immediately if have severe or persistent headaches; visual changes (such as double or blurred vision, seeing spots or flashing lights, light sensitivity, or a temporary loss of vision), intense upper abdominal pain or tenderness, or nausea and vomiting. These are symptoms of a serious condition called preeclampsia.

Happy Birthday Dear Jane Austen

It's Jane Austen's 233rd birthday today and of course I've made a video for her! Take a look!

w 37 - I am a zebra

Yes I am. The stretch marks is just getting more and more. Ah well, it's good to know that it contains something wonderful! ;) even if the wrapping is getting striped. The belly must have grown quite a bit because today I got the first reaction from somebody I didn't know. "Oh dear, when are you due?!" this comes from a woman I actually met in the corridor like last week. She hasn't said anything before now. ;) That's ok. But according to the midwife the womb is only one centimetre larger than last time.

Everything went well at the midwife's today. Peanut's head is now less movable than before, but not yet fixated. I asked if it was ok to go away for Christmas, and she didn't see any problem with that as long as I brought my journal with me. If it should start all you have to do is to call the nearest clinic. Nemas problemas. But after and around the due date she thought it best if we stayed at home. But hopefully Peanut will not make and entrance into this world until next year. That would be the best really. Of course I'm longing to meet him/her, but still, it's so much easier to be born early in the year than very late.

Peanut's heart beated with 133 beats/minute today, the slowest yet. My bloodpressure was good as always, I've gained one kilo since last time which brings me to a total of 9 kilos so far. That's ok I think.

Your pregnancy: 37 weeks
Peanut: Congratulations — your baby is full term! This means that if your baby arrives now, his lungs should be fully mature and ready to adjust to life outside the womb, even though your due date is still three weeks away. Your baby weighs 6 1/3 pounds and measures a bit over 19 inches, head to heel (like a stalk of Swiss chard). Many babies have a full head of hair at birth, with locks from 1/2 inch to 1 1/2 inches long. But don't be surprised if your baby's hair isn't the same color as yours. Dark-haired couples are sometimes thrown for a loop when their children come out as blonds or redheads, and fair-haired couples have been surprised by Elvis look-alikes. And then, of course, some babies sport only peach fuzz.

See what your baby looks like this week. Note: Every baby develops a little differently — even in the womb. Our information is designed to give you a general idea of your baby's development.

Me: Braxton Hicks contractions may be coming more frequently now and may last longer and be more uncomfortable. You might also notice an increase in vaginal discharge. If you see some "bloody show" (mucus tinged with a tiny amount of blood) in the toilet or in your undies, labor is probably a few days away — or less. (If you have heavier spotting or bleeding, call your caregiver immediately.) Also be sure to ask your caregiver about the results of your Group B strep culture. That way, if the result isn't yet on your chart when you get to the hospital or birth center, you'll be able to give the staff there a timely heads-up if you need antibiotics.

It may be harder than ever to get comfortable enough to sleep well at night. If you can, take it easy through the day — this may be your last chance to do so for quite a while. Keep monitoring your baby's movements, too, and let your caregiver know immediately if you notice a decrease. Though her quarters are getting cozy, she should still be as active as before.

While you're sleeping, you're likely to have some intense dreams. Anxiety both about labor and about becoming a parent can fuel a lot of strange flights of unconscious fancy.

Still going strong

Last week of work! Yey! I'm really getting tired of going to work every week day. Most people I've talked to think I'm crazy for still working. ;-) But my work entail sitting on my ass answering the phone all day, nothing more nothing less. Not really hard work. ;-) I could really go on being pregnant a while longer, but that is probably because I've had a really easy pregnancy. And even though I long to meet the little miracle who's hiding in my belly, I hope s/he stays until at least new year's morning.

Apparently my belly has grown quite a bit the last week, at least according to my collegue who has been away for a week. I'm not so sure... We'll have to compare with the new pics tomorrow. It's also time to visit the midwife again tomorrow. It's gonna be fun to see what the scales stops at tomorrow. I think I haven't gained that much since I've been quite on the move the last week. My darling's been working late and I had to walk both to and from the bus, like one extra mile a day.

My mum is really getting anxious to meet her grandchild. She encourage me to take long walks, walk staircases, cleaning and so on anything to make the labour start. I say no! I'm really taking it easy right now... Spends lots of time on the couch. ;-)

w 36 - I think I'm taking in water...

Yes, my feet are really expanding, my hands as well. I'm feeling like a blob. But that's what's suppose to happen the last month of pregnancy right? I mean, I'm lucky who has been spared so far. My dear co-workers was astounded by the size of my belly yesterday. They said it had grown just over night. I believe it was due to the top I was wearing. It's empire cut under the bust. Very cute, and very belly-friendly. And to add to that this was just after munching down a kebab with fries for lunch! ;-)

It's really a blessing to know that I only got this week and next left to work before going on maternity leave. You don't want to mess with me right now. I flare up very easily!

I am now finally Mrs A. There was some mix up with the names before and my middle name was still there, but now I'm just Mrs A. At last!

Week 36:
Peanut: Your baby is still packing on the pounds — at the rate of about an ounce a day. She now weighs almost 6 pounds (like a crenshaw melon) and is more than 18 1/2 inches long. She's shedding most of the downy covering of hair that covered her body as well as the vernix caseosa, the waxy substance that covered and protected her skin during her nine-month amniotic bath. Your baby swallows both of these substances, along with other secretions, resulting in a blackish mixture, called meconium, will form the contents of her first bowel movement.

At the end of this week, your baby will be considered full-term. (Full-term is 37 to 42 weeks; babies born before 37 weeks are pre-term and those born after 42 are post-term.) Most likely she's in a head-down position. But if she isn't, your practitioner may suggest scheduling an "external cephalic version," which is a fancy way of saying she'll try to coax your baby into a head-down position by manipulating her from the outside of your belly.

See what your baby looks like this week. (Or see what fraternal twins look like in the womb this week.)

Note: Every baby develops a little differently — even in the womb. Our information is designed to give you a general idea of your baby's development.

Me: Now that your baby is taking up so much room, you may have trouble eating a normal-size meal. Smaller, more frequent meals are often easier to handle at this point. On the other hand, you may have less heartburn and have an easier time breathing when your baby starts to "drop" down into your pelvis. This process — called lightening — often happens a few weeks before labor if this is your first baby. (If you've given birth before, it probably won't happen before labor starts.) If your baby drops, you may also feel increased pressure in your lower abdomen, which may make walking increasingly uncomfortable, and you'll probably find that you have to pee even more frequently. If your baby is very low, you may feel lots of vaginal pressure and discomfort as well. Some women say it feels as though they're carrying a bowling ball between their legs!

You might also notice that your Braxton Hicks contractions are more frequent now. Be sure to review the signs of labor with your practitioner and find out when she wants to hear from you. As a general rule, if you're full-term, your pregnancy is uncomplicated, and your water hasn't broken, she'll probably have you wait to come in until you've been having contractions that last for about a minute each, coming every five minutes for an hour. Of course, you'll want to call right away if you notice a decrease in your baby's activity or think you're leaking amniotic fluid, or if you have any vaginal bleeding, fever, a severe or persistent headache, constant abdominal pain, or vision changes.

Even if you're enjoying an uncomplicated pregnancy, it's best to avoid flying (or any travel far from home) during your final month because you can go into labor at any time. In fact, some airlines won't let women on board who are due to deliver within 30 days of the flight.

And now the snow is gone...

Gone, and nowhere to be seen. The lawns are green once more. Boring! Just as it was time to put the Christmas decorations up, the snow thaws away. Ah well, it's better for my pains that the snow is gone. I've not been in more pain this week. The redirection of my route to the bus has paid off, thank God! This weekend will be spent shopping, cleaning and decorating. Maybe some baking as well. Still need to get a few bits and pieces for Peanut, a nursing bra for me and perhaps some Christmas presents. I really need to start packing the bag I'm bringing with me to the delivery room. It's just a month until due date! Jikes! Where did the time go?

My mother kindly informed me that she had bought a fluffy little cover all for Peanut. One of those that looks like a polar bear with ears on it. S/he's gonna be so cute when we leave the maternity ward!

They have also decided who's replacing me during my maternity leave. The one we had here last week and didn't want back. She didn't fit in here, or could manage the job. We said that. But they apparently didn't listen. My poor colleagues!

w 35 - Is the baby ready when the belly button pops out?

I visited the midwife again yesterday. I've actually gained 2 kilos since last time! :-O Ah well, only 8 kg so far, not much really. We talked about my pain in pelvis and back, but to get a sick note to be home the last two weeks. But then I need to go see my house doctor, so I'm thinking of waiting and see if it's just the snow that has messed with my body. Today I took another route to the bus stop and I'm not in such pain as I was yesterday. then I almost started crying as I reached the bus stop.

Everything else looked just fine. Peanut's head down like last time and the head is still movable. Apparently s/he still has lots of space to move around on. The heart ticked with 146 beats/min.
I noticed that my belly button is well on its way to pop out (see above!). :) That means that the baby is ready to come out, right? ;) My darling called me Chewbacca the other day, not very nice, but he's right. My belly is really hairy! ;)

Your pregnancy: 35 weeks
Peanut: Your baby doesn't have much room to maneuver now that he's over 18 inches long and tips the scales at 5 1/4 pounds (pick up a honeydew melon). Because it's so snug in your womb, he isn't likely to be doing somersaults anymore, but the number of times he kicks should remain about the same. His kidneys are fully developed now, and his liver can process some waste products. Most of his basic physical development is now complete — he'll spend the next few weeks putting on weight. See what your baby looks like this week.

Note: Every baby develops a little differently — even in the womb. Our information is designed to give you a general idea of your baby's development.

Me: Your uterus — which was entirely tucked away inside your pelvis when you conceived — now reaches up under your rib cage. If you could peek inside your womb, you'd see that there's more baby than amniotic fluid in there now. Your ballooning uterus is crowding your other internal organs, too, which is why you probably have to urinate more often and may be dealing with heartburn and other gastrointestinal distress. If you're not grappling with these annoyances, you're one of the lucky few.

From here on out, you'll start seeing your practitioner every week. Sometime between now and 37 weeks, she'll do a vaginal and rectal culture to check for bacteria called Group B streptococci (GBS). (Don't worry — the swab is the size of a regular cotton swab, and it won't hurt at all.) GBS is usually harmless in adults, but if you have it and pass it on to your baby during birth, it can cause serious complications, such as pneumonia, meningitis, or a blood infection. Because 10 to 30 percent of pregnant women have the bacteria and don't know it, it's vital to be screened. (The bacteria come and go on their own — that's why you weren't screened earlier in pregnancy.) If you're a GBS carrier, you'll get IV antibiotics during labor, which will greatly reduce your baby's risk of infection.

This is also a good time to create a birth plan. Using our form will help you focus on specifics — like who'll be present, what pain management techniques you want to try, and where you want your baby to stay after you deliver. It will give you a starting point to discuss your preferences with your medical team. Childbirth is unpredictable, and chances are you won't follow your plan to the letter, but thinking about your choices ahead of time — and sharing your preferences with your caregiver — should take some of the anxiety out of the process.

What I like about men in cravats...

So being snowed in has it perks... you have lots and lots of time on your hands to make music videos... This I made yesterday. I'm trying out a new editing program, hence the text in the middle of the frame. My regular program is not working at the moment. It's most vexing! But this new one is very good, with lots and lots of different effects and transitions. This I made yesterday:

The buses are still cancelled

So we'll have to see if I get to work tomorrow or not. The buses around here are still cancelled at least until midnight I suppose. I called work and warned them that I might not be able to come tomorrow either. It's almost half a meter snow at some places! :-o I haven't seen this much snow in years! And in the end of the week it's gonna thaw away again. :(
Some jerk that didn't bother to drive he's car in to his parking space again. No wait, I'm leaving it here, in the middle of the road. That's a good idea. NOT!

Snowed in

Nope, didn't get to work today. When I woke up this morning, I thought it best not to. According to the traffic rapport my bus was delayed or cancelled. I had snow up to my knees when we went out with doggie. So both me and my hubbie thought it best to stay indoors at home today. If I hadn't been 9 months pregnant, I might have gone to work later today, but as it is now, with this giant belly, I prefer to stay at home. Better to be safe than sorry.

I just got an email from work saying they wrote a vacation day on me today. Good, that way I don't loose any money for staying home due to the weather. It's snowing again. Not as heavy as before, but still.

Mummy wants!

I was surfing around on amazon the other day since I've gotten a email from them regarding a nice christmas sale. I found the coolest t-shirt I just have to buy for Peanut! Isn't it awesome? they had lots of cool t-shirts with funny things on them. Luckily enough I found a christmas present for my hubbie as well so I have a reason for purchasing things all the way from UK. It was quite cheep as well! Only £10,30 which is like 125 skr, very acceptable you konw. I so have to buy it!

Very pregnant Bambi on ice

It's not enough that we pregnant women have a hard time getting around as it is, but now the roads are very slippery as well! Took a walk with the dog last night and almost fell over. Like it's not enough that I'm aching as it is, now I'm very tensely walking around, trying not to slip. I think it is time to get the winter boots out I guess.

w 34 - Where has the time gone?

It feels like it was only a few weeks ago I got the positive result on the pregnancy test. Now I've gone 34 full weeks! Seriously!? Not long until Peanut is resting in my arms. I'm really getting emotional just thinking of it. The little life I've been carrying under my heart is soon out here in the real world, with us. I'm getting all misty eyed! I'm really longing to meet the little one in my belly!

Listening to the people that is having due dates in December most of them are getting tired of being pregnant and wishes their babies where on their way already. I can wait. Really. I'd rather have and early 09er than a very late 08er. I'm probably change my mind along the way, the closer till due date we get.

I've been suffering from heartburn and some Braxton Hicks contractions. Nothing serious though. But at this stage, any pain that is not usually there is nerve racking until you understand what it is. The heartburn is worse! I woke up last night with heartburn, and had to go get something for it. Like getting up to pee isn't enough! ;) And I'm looking more and more like a duck when walking. And I cannot walk as fast or as far as before. Getting to the bus in the morning is really taking it's toll on me. Only three more weeks to go, then maternity leave!

Your pregnancy: 34 weeks
Peanut: Your baby now weighs about 4 3/4 pounds (like your average cantaloupe) and is almost 18 inches long. Her fat layers — which will help regulate her body temperature once she's born — are filling her out, making her rounder. Her skin is also smoother than ever. Her central nervous system is maturing and her lungs are continuing to mature as well. If you've been nervous about preterm labor, you'll be happy to know that babies born between 34 and 37 weeks who have no other health problems generally do fine. They may need a short stay in the neonatal nursery and may have a few short-term health issues, but in the long run, they usually do as well as full-term babies.

See what your baby looks like this week.

Note: Every baby develops a little differently — even in the womb. Our information is designed to give you a general idea of your baby's development.

Me: By this week, fatigue has probably set in again, though maybe not with the same coma-like intensity of your first trimester. Your tiredness is perfectly understandable, given the physical strain you're under and the restless nights of frequent pee breaks and tossing and turning, while trying to get comfortable. Now's the time to slow down and save up your energy for labor day (and beyond). If you've been sitting or lying down for a long time, don't jump up too quickly. Blood can pool in your feet and legs, causing a temporary drop in your blood pressure when you get up that can make you feel dizzy.

There is an alien in my belly!

I have finally gotten a really good shot of Peanut moving in my belly! My darling is very sad that he cannot see it. He doesn't even want to try and feel it anymore because he claims he cannot feel anything. Everybody else who has put there hands on me has felt Peanut very well. I'm so sad that he doesn't even want to try. :( I want him to feel a part of this to.

Better late than never...

I have totally forgotten to tell you about my antenatal clinic visit on Wednesday. Perhaps the funeral got in the way, and I have been feeling a bit poorly. I've been home now yesterday and today, just taking it easy. I was so tired and thought I might be coming down with a cold, but nothing seems to be happening. My back was killing me on Wednesday and so did my pelvis, I could hardly walk. Better safe than sorry I called in sick.

Anyways, everything seemed normal according to my midwife. Peanut's head is down but still movable. Just as it should be. I haven't gain anything since last time, rather lost a kilo. But I was there in the morning without eating before, so I guess that doesn't really count. But it's still very good. :-) I give everything to Peanut and keeps nothing for myself! ;-) hehe. How very unselfish of me. Peanut's heart beated with 146 beats/minute.

It's been quite nice being home these last two days. Most of the time has of course been spent in front of the xbox and Guitar Hero Aerosmith that my hubbie bought the other day. Dangerous shit... Very addictive... ;-)

Another type of craving...

Most people gets some kind of cravings during their pregnancy, most often something food related. But not me. Ok the occational sweet tooth or chocolate, but that I get all the time. Yesterday the biggest craving of the all hit. And it has nothing to do with food. No, I crave Mr Thornton in Elizabeth Gaskell's novel North and South. Or rather Richard Armitage playing Mr Thornton in BBC's version. Perhaps he's more known as Guy of Gisborne in Robin Hood.

I blame the craving on a friend online who had just found N&S and fallen in love. After that the discussion was unevitable. Perhaps it was led in the wrong forum (Becoming Jane Fansite) but we hopless romantics stick together even across the literary borders. The book has been sitting on my shelf for quite some time actually, but it wasn't until I stumbled on the adaptation on Youtube when I remembered it. I bought it years ago in Englind when I work there, in hope of it being the book behind North and South from the 80s with Patrick Swayze, but alas I was mistaken. I think I read about a chapter before giving up. This was not the civil war in America, this was somewhere in England. So I quit. If Mr Thornton had been present I'm sure I had continued, but he is not introduced until later. So I missed qoutes like this:

“Oh, my Margaret--my Margaret! no one can tell what you are to me! Dead--cold as you lie there, you are the only woman I ever loved! Oh, Margaret--Margaret!” Inarticulately as he [Mr Thornton] spoke, kneeling by her, and rather moaning than saying the words, he started up, ashamed of himself, as his mother came in. She saw nothing, but her son a little paler, a little sterner than usual.

Who doesn't want to be spoken to like that? Serious hotness! Unfortunate the object for this passionate speech is unconcsious after being hit by a rock meant for Mr Thornton. This is not included in the adaptation, however. But the look in Armitage's eyes after kneeling by Margaret's side is awesome.

I have now read the book and it is one of my favourites. I am a hopeless romantic and always will be. So now it is time for a N&S marathon before my hubbie gets home. Do you think he can manage a date with Armitage for me? Perhaps not...

All pics are taken from Richard Armitage Online.

w 33 - new stretch marks...

OMG! Less than 50 days till due date! What happened with all the time I had? I discovered new stretch marks on the bottom of my belly when I inspected the newly taken pics of my belly! :-o Horrid thought. Luckily enough what's causing them is the most beautiful baby in the world! ;-) Not that I'm complaining, mind you. I've very few stretch marks compared to other people. And my pregnancy has been very easy. I'm very satisfied. I was sure I was going to be more of a hippo by now, but I haven't gained that much weight.

It's only a month before I go on maternity leave. Honestly I'm really looking forward to it. I'm quite sick of working at the moment. I'm really tired at the moment and my mood is swinging like the 50's. Seriously, one wrong word and I'm biting your head off or close to tears. I don't like it. Then it's good to have hormones to blame everything on! hehe...

Your pregnancy: 33 weeks
Peanut:This week your baby weighs a little over 4 pounds (heft a pineapple) and has passed the 17-inch mark. He's rapidly losing that wrinkled, alien look and his skeleton is hardening. The bones in his skull aren't fused together, which allows them to move and slightly overlap, thus making it easier for him to fit through the birth canal. (The pressure on the head during birth is so intense that many babies are born with a conehead-like appearance.) These bones don't entirely fuse until early adulthood, so they can grow as his brain and other tissue expands during infancy and childhood.

See what your baby looks like this week.

Note: Every baby develops a little differently — even in the womb. Our information is designed to give you a general idea of your baby's development.

Me: As your baby fills out even more of your belly, lots of things might start to change: Whereas before you were sashaying, you may find yourself waddling. Finding an easy position to sit in — let alone sleep — is becoming more of a challenge. And bumping into chairs and counters is par for the course.

You may be feeling some achiness and even numbness in your fingers, wrists, and hands. Like many other tissues in your body, those in your wrist can retain fluid, which can increase pressure in the carpal tunnel, a bony canal in your wrist. Nerves that run through this "tunnel" may end up pinched, creating numbness; tingling, shooting or burning pain; or a dull ache. Try wearing a splint to stabilize your wrist or propping your arm up with a pillow when you sleep. If your work requires repetitive hand movements (at a keyboard or on an assembly line, for instance), remember to stretch your hands when you take breaks — which should be frequently.

Many women are still feeling sexy at this stage — and their partners often agree. You may need to make some adjustments, but for most women, sex during pregnancy is fine right up until their water breaks or their labor starts.

My maternity leave is ok!

Yes, sir! About a month left before I'm off! I work my last day 12 of December. It's gonna be so nice to go home and prepare for birth. I haven't exactly said when I'll be back, but that I don't mind working in the summer when the others are on vacation so that my darling can get some time off as well. Then I can take some more time off in the autumn before going back to work. It's a whole science about the maternity leave and how to get the most of the days you are entitled to. Ah well, I'm sure it will work out just fine.

Peanut's been having hiccups from time to time now. My whole belly is shivering when s/he starts! ;) Poor little one. Yesterday I picked up one of my darling's cats (which are living with my father in law), the one that is constantly talking and put her on my belly, she was meowing away like crazy and Peanut started hiccuping! Star was almost falling off my belly because it was shivering so! ;)

Most of those I've talked to thinks I'm expecting a little boy. I myself is on the fence. My darling is pretty sure he saw something on the ultrasound that points in that direction. ;) Only a few thinks it's a little girl in there... Ah well, not too long until we get to meet the one whose hiding in there! I can't wait! ;)

I've lost my husband to the xbox

My darling turned 30 the other day. He has been craving a xbox 360 for some time now, and since he got money from his mother he was not late in going and buy one. Since then, midday on Friday, I have scarcely gotten two coherent words out of him. ;) We got Fable II as a first game to the console. I too want to play! He's got first dibs of course, seeing as it is actually his present. I can't wait to get Guitar Hero! Then me and Peanut's gonna rock all night long! ;)

When we were in Gävle to buy the console I got to go to IKEA at lest. Checked out what they got for Peanut and so. Good to know until next time. The internet site can only do so much. I want to feel the materials. I've got a pretty good clue on what I want to buy for the cradle now and other small bits and pieces that we'll be needing.

At least it will not be a giant baby!

Got to see the little miracle today! Just to make sure that I'm not having a giant baby I got an extra ultrasound. Peanut is now weighing 1879 grams and everything looked just fine. So it's not a giant baby in there, but a slightly smaller than normal one. I really don't mind since I'm the one giving birth to it! ;) No new pic though... :(

Tonight we're going up to my father in law. My darling's 30th birthday is tomorrow so we decided to take a few days vacation. It's gonna be soooo nice and much needed. ;)

w 32 - The wheat pillow is my friend

After having a quite nice pregnancy without much pain or other symptoms, my back has started aching and some undefined ache in the bottom of the belly. Almost as before my period. Hopefully it's just something to do with partying this weekend, along with sleeping in a not too comfortable bed. I have used our wheat pillow now since Sunday on my belly and on the back. Nice and warm and soothing. Helps a bit anyways.

Peanut's been rummaging around in my belly like crazy. Perhaps that can explain some of the aching as well. It's like I'm getting tired in the stomach from all the kicking. I know I shouldn't be complaining since I've had a really easy pregnancy so far.

I have also begun worrying about not knowing when the labor starts. My darling thinks it's one of those things you just know. Like an instinct. I know that he's right, but still I worry. Silly me.

Tomorrow it's time for my second ultrasound. I'm really looking forward to see Peanut again! I hope I get a little picture as we did last time, but it didn't say anything about it in the letter I got.

Your pregnancy: 32 weeks

See the big picture

Peanut:By now, your baby weighs 3.75 pounds (pick up a large jicama) and is about 16.7 inches long, taking up a lot of space in your uterus. You're gaining about a pound a week and roughly half of that goes right to your baby. In fact, she'll gain a third to half of her birth weight during the next 7 weeks as she fattens up for survival outside the womb. She now has toenails, fingernails, and real hair (or at least respectable peach fuzz). Her skin is becoming soft and smooth as she plumps up in preparation for birth.

See what your baby looks like this week. (Or see what fraternal twins look like in the womb this week.) Note: Every baby develops a little differently — even in the womb. Our information is designed to give you a general idea of your baby's development.

Me: To accommodate you and your baby's growing needs, your blood volume has increased 40 to 50 percent since you got pregnant. With your uterus pushing up near your diaphragm and crowding your stomach, the consequences may be shortness of breath and heartburn. To help relieve your discomfort, try sleeping propped up with pillows and eating smaller meals more often. You may have lower-back pain as your pregnancy advances. If you do, let your caregiver know right away, particularly if you haven't had back pain before, since it can be a sign of preterm labor.

Assuming it's not preterm labor that's ailing you, you can probably blame your growing uterus and hormonal changes for your aching back. Your expanding uterus shifts your center of gravity and stretches out and weakens your abdominal muscles, changing your posture and putting a strain on your back. Hormonal changes in pregnancy loosen your joints and the ligaments that attach your pelvic bones to your spine. This can make you feel less stable and cause pain when you walk, stand, sit for long periods, roll over in bed, get out of a low chair or the tub, bend, or lift things.

I now pronounce you man and wife...

Yes, the big secret is now out. We became Mr and Mrs A last weekend, the 25th of October that is. Very naughty of us of course. Only our two witnesses knew about it. We were marrid in Norrtälje Rådhus at one o'clock. After that we went to our country house to take some pictures. We ate dinner at a Chinese restaurant, then spent the night home with bubbly and friends.

This weekend we invited our friends to our country house to celebrate that my husband turns 30 on Thursday and letting everybody know we are now married. I was a bit worried that they would get a bit cranky, but everybody seemed genuinly happy for us. From the beginning we had planned to get married on Saturday, but the man who was marrying us was not available. So there was really nothing we could do. The whole thing was revealed by a cake with a bride and groom on it. It turned out to be a very fun party for all! Pics are found here. Of course the guys will drag my darling out on a post stagnight. But that's ok. Hopefully the girls will do something for me as well, but I'm not counting on it.


Peanut was not on his/her most social side, but was petted anyways. At the moment it's not so much that s/he is kicking, but moving around making the tummy take funny shapes. So if you touch it you can feel a hard behind. ;-)

Visiting the antenatal clinic

So I went to see the midwife today. Everything looked fine. At the moment Peanut is lying with his/her head down and bottom up. I thought so since I've gotten kicked upwards. She could even feel that Peanut often lay on the right side under my breast kicking! Hehe. Peanut got a little upset when she wanted to listen to the heart beat and started kicking and boxing for a while. S/he's a little shy at the moment I guess. I didn't have to check my blood sugar today, but will have to do it next time.

Peanut's heart beated with 144 beats/minute today, and my blood pressure was just fine. I haven't gained any weight since last time, which is kind of a relief. Everybody says you gain most weight in the last trimester. The belly keeps on growing and the womb is now 31 cm. Which is just normal.

Got a appointment but I have to change the time because I'm at a funeral that day. Hopefully I'll get an earlier time the same day.

Can't wait till my ultrasound next week!

Goodmorning!

What weather that greeted us this morning. Fog and slippery roads. A bit scared to cross the road when I don't see the other side. It's not easy to slip around like Bambi on ice when you are pregnant, let me tell you! You have to try to be even more careful than usual. I really need to switch to my winter boots soon if this weather keeps on.

I sent a message to my hubbie telling him to take it easy in the traffic this morning. Anything can happen. My co worker spun around on the parking lot when she tried to turn. ;)

Belly pic w 31

Yes, it has gotten bigger... and isn't it a bit lower?

w 31 - Best to start early...

I accidentally drank a beer on Sunday, you know a strong one! I took one of my darling's Heinikens instead of my alcohol free Carlsberg. He laughed when I said I felt a bit strange. Well, nearly eight months of no alcohol does that to a woman I guess. ;) I felt so ashamed! Seriously. Poor Peanut. Well, best start early I guess! ;) I don't think any harm's done, but I still feel like a very bad mother that cannot see the difference between a Carlsberg and a Heineken.

Peanut is now most of the time wedged in under my ribs and kicking upwards, making my boobs jump! ;) Feels very weird. And if s/he's not up there, s/he's down lurking around my blatter, making me feel the need to pee all the time. Most annoying actually, and not really comfortable. But hey, I'm not complaining. I like that s/he's moving!

A new pic of my belly will be posted later today when I've gotten my darling to take one! ;)

Your pregnancy: 31weeks
Peanut: This week, your baby measures over 16 inches long. He weighs about 3.3 pounds (try carrying four navel oranges) and is heading into a growth spurt. He can turn his head from side to side, and his arms, legs, and body are beginning to plump out as needed fat accumulates underneath his skin. He's probably moving a lot, too, so you may have trouble sleeping because your baby's kicks and somersaults keep you up. Take comfort: All this moving is a sign that your baby is active and healthy.

See what your baby looks like this week.

Note: Every baby develops a little differently — even in the womb. Our information is designed to give you a general idea of your baby's development.

Me: Have you noticed the muscles in your uterus tightening now and then? Many women feel these random contractions — called Braxton Hicks contractions — in the second half of pregnancy. Often lasting about 30 seconds, they're irregular, and at this point, they should be infrequent and painless. Frequent contractions, on the other hand — even those that don't hurt — may be a sign of preterm labor. Call your practitioner immediately if you have more than four contractions in an hour or any other signs of preterm labor: an increase in vaginal discharge or a change in the type of discharge (if it becomes watery, mucus-like, or bloody — even if it's pink or just tinged with blood); abdominal pain or menstrual-like cramping; an increase in pressure in the pelvic area; or low back pain, especially if you didn't have it before.

You may have noticed some leaking of colostrum, or "premilk," from your breasts lately. If so, try tucking some nursing pads into your bra to protect your clothes. (And if not, it's certainly nothing to worry about; your breasts are making colostrum all the same, even if you don't see any.) If your current bra is too snug, you might also want to pick up a nursing bra. Choose a nursing bra at least one cup size bigger than you need now. When your milk comes in you'll be grateful for that extra room!

If you're having a boy, you and your partner will want to take some time to think about whether or not to have your baby circumcised. Find out the pros and cons from your doctor, and what the procedure involves.

ps: and very very secret. My darling's finally made an honest woman out of me. We got married on Saturday! ;) wee I can now call myself a wife! Check our pic out here!

Fridays are always the best

Yes, after a week of hormones messing with my head. I slept very badly in the beginning of the week, but now I've gotten two whole nights without any heartburn or toilet visits or a darling that doesn't appreciate my snoring. Ah well, now it's Friday and weekend! ;) That is enough to make anyone happy.

Yesterday we went to Danderyds hospital for a lecture on how it is to give birth at their maternity clinic. The midwife talked about what kind of pain relief there was to chose from and so on. I would so like to try to give birth without any drugs, but my darling thinks I'm crazy. Just because he knows how low my pain threshold is. But I believe this is a different pain that you can endure as a mother to be, but he thinks I should take the drugs just because. Luckely enough I'm in charge! ;) My body is built for giving birth. I'm gonna make it. I'm sure of it.

30 full weeks - jikes!

Well, today it's 30w1d. I forgot to update yesterday... Lots on my mind as of late. I've been starting to think about how we're supposed to get by on just one full income when I'm on maternity leave. I get like half my income when I'm home. Then my co worker got the brilliant idea of me working over the summer when the other ones are on vacation. I get like two full months pay and my darling can be home with the baby. I thought it a very good idea, to save maternity days. And besides, I cost less if I work than my darling because he takes the car everyday and gas is so not cheap here in Sweden. Ah well, I guess we'll manage somehow. We always do. ;)

Tomorrow we're visiting the maternity ward at the hospital where I'm going to give birth for an open lecture about giving birth there. My midwife thought it good we go to see what kind of options we will have once it's time to give birth. It's going to be very interesting, I have no idea what to expect when it's time... And to be honest, I'm trying not to think about it too much. I'm sure it will work out just fine once I'm in there. ;-) I mean my body is built for carrying children then I'm sure it knows what to do when it comes to that! hehe...

Your pregnancy: 30 weeks

Peanut:Your baby's about 15.7 inches long now, and she weighs almost 3 pounds (like a head of cabbage). A pint and a half of amniotic fluid surrounds her, but that volume will decrease as she gets bigger and takes up more room in your uterus. Her eyesight continues to develop, though it's not very keen; even after she's born, she'll keep her eyes closed for a good part of the day. When she does open them, she'll respond to changes in light but will have 20/400 vision — which means she can only make out objects a few inches from her face. (Normal adult vision is 20/20.)

See what your baby looks like this week.

Note: Every baby develops a little differently — even in the womb. Our information is designed to give you a general idea of your baby's development.

Me: You may be feeling a little tired these days, especially if you're having trouble sleeping. You might also feel clumsier than normal, which is perfectly understandable. Not only are you heavier, but the concentration of weight in your pregnant belly causes a shift in your center of gravity. Plus, thanks to hormonal changes, your ligaments are more lax, so your joints are looser, which may also contribute to your balance being a bit off. Also, this relaxation of your ligaments can actually cause your feet to spread permanently, so you may have to invest in some new shoes in a bigger size.

Remember those mood swings you had earlier in pregnancy? The combination of uncomfortable symptoms and hormonal changes can result in a return of those emotional ups and downs. It's normal to worry about what your labor will be like or whether you'll be a good parent. But if you can't shake the blues or feel increasingly irritable or agitated, talk to your doctor or midwife. You may be among the 1 in 10 expectant women who battle depression during pregnancy. Also let your caregiver know if you're frequently nervous or anxious.

This week the information is brought to you by babycenter.

w 29 - A little rascal in my belly

Peanut doesn't give me much time without kicking nowadays. It feels like s/he's constantly on the move. Kicking here and there, knocking the head against my ribs or just I don't know, break dancing? Or sneezing, because that's how it feels. It's not easy to concentrate on ones work when you have a little rascal in the belly that keeps on kicking you! ;-) I'm just caught with a silly smile on my face, rubbing my tummy. My darling thinks I'm weird. I don't blame him. He's a bit frustrated at the moment because every time I tell him to feel for kicks, Peanut goes very still. Not very nice. And thinks it's a bit scary I guess, kind of alieny or something. Feels weird to feel something move inside my belly. What a wanker! ;-) Ah well, I love love him anyways! ;-)

Week 29: To pee or not to pee...

Peanut:If you’ve been feeling butterflies moving around in your belly, it’s not just your run-of-the-mill pre-birth performance anxiety. No, it’s your amazing baby with a case of the hiccups: a fairly common occurrence at this point resulting from practising breathing for their big birthday. In addition, to getting a round of butterfly-like hiccups, your little swimmer has arduously managed to accumulate enough baby fat to account for nearly 3.5% of their overall body weight. Yeah, compared to we adults, it’s not a lot, but when they’re little like that—it’s certainly a healthy (and warming) accomplishment in its way. Another fantastic accomplishment: your baby's spleen is now in charge of hematopoiesis—the 10 dollar name for the process involved in building up certain important blood components. Another fantastic-accomplishment: your little monkey has been peeing into their amniotic sac for a little while now (this is why potty training takes a while) and if you didn’t know, actually swallows it along with the rest of the amniotic fluid. Although the concept is nasty, their urine is sterile and as part of the amniotic fluid base, is replaced several times throughout the day. So if you didn’t know before, now you can tell people, that yes, you drank your own urine—you were still in the womb, but nonetheless, you’ve been there.

Me: Here’s another new-parenting-issue that you probably don’t have the time or energy to handle: the decision whether or not to breastfeed. If you thought this was one of the obvious ones (stick out breast, attach child, feeding commences!), think again. Right off the bat, there are women that simply cannot breastfeed for medical reasons—and have no choice in the matter but to opt for formula-feeding. Then there are the women who attempt to breast-feed and run out of milk, or the baby won’t latch on (they even have breast-feeding classes because despite the apparent animal-easiness of the behavior, some babies just don’t take to breastfeeding).

Now, if you are planning or deciding whether or not to breastfeed, here are some of the big reasons why it’s a great thing for you and your little “sucker”: breastfeeding actually releases a hormone that will help you relax (and if you don’t nurse milk production will actually cease: i.e. use it or lose it!). If you choose to breastfeed, your body will produce oxytocin—(no, not Oxycotin, Rush Limbaugh already took care of that), which actually increases uterine contractions to decrease post-birth vaginal bleeding.

And the vain reason to breastfeed: all that charming excess body fat you’ve gained is used for milk production, thus making it MUCH easier for you to return to you pre-pregnancy weight. Also, nursing mothers’ bones re-mineralize faster than those who don’t and are less likely to contract ovarian or uterine cancer before and after menopause. Not to mention the fact that breastfeeding means you’re directly bolstering your baby’s immune system. For even more reasons why your child will benefit from breastfeeding, visit womenshealth.gov.

Old Betty

This morning we went to fetch the car that my father in law had found for me. An old Ford Escort. In really good shape, only one devoted owner. :) I like it. I therefore named her Betty. Or in Swedish: Bettan. It's so nice to have a car of my own, finally! Freedom! ;)

We also went to pick up a box from Pampers that you get for free. Which included some diaper samples, a toy and some other stuff. Free stuff is always welcome! But it didn't contain as much as they had said on the website, so I'm thinking of writing out another recite for my darling to go to another store to pick up. ;) Very naughty of course... ;)

'Lost in Austen'

So, I found a new tv-series worth watching if you are an Austen-fan. It's called Lost in Austen and is about Amanda who is totally in to Jane Austen's Pride & Prejudice. One day she discovers the heroine Elizabeth Bennet in her bathroom, getting through a door in time and space. They accidentally change places and Amanda is caught in the book. Her presence of course induce some different twist and turns to the well known story. I really liked it. Darcy was as hot as ever and the pond scene alone makes the series worth watching. ;-) Most amusing.

It was a bit embarrassing from time to time, but all and all it very worth watching. I would so want to be in Amanda's shoes. ;-) Elliot Cowan makes a very good Darcy, perhaps even better than Colin Firth. Cowan wins the wet shirt contest any day. Yep I will totally by the dvd asap. Until then you can watch the series at youtube. Unfortunately you have to do some detective work to find the next part, but it is worth it. I promise.

pics taken from itv.com

Visit to the antenatal-clinic

So my darling surprised me with following me to the clinic yesterday. He could get off work a bit earlier than usual and thought it would be nice to see what I'm doing ever so often. I'm getting another ultrasound since I'm a bit overweight and they wanted to see that everything is fine and that the baby is growing properly. Well my uterus (Symfus-fundus) measures 28 cm which is just over average and I've only gained 6 kg so far. Not much at all. Just perfect for a girl my size! ;-) Peanut's heart ticked away with 152 beats/minute, which is just normal. S/he is really up in my ribs all the time now.

I have to remember not to look too closely at the ultrasound since I don't want to know what gender the baby is... How am I gonna manage that? ;) I'm really longing to see my little one again! :)

w 28 - Peanut has found my ribs

Yeah so all of a sudden I get to kicks right in the middle of my ribs. Hard enough to make my boobs jump. ;) Weird but kind of cool at the same time. S/he's really been busy today. Really been all around the belly. ;)

Tomorrow I'm off to the antenatal clinic again.I'm longing to hear my little one's heart beats and too see that it's growing as it should. I will write more about that tomorrow. :)

I'm really soon in desperate need of a new jacket. it's getting really cold and nothing I have at home fits. I'm thinking of buying a cheap one just to have until Peanut arrives and then a more expensive one after giving birth. I think that's the wisest way to go.

Week 28: Why, you look positively bovine!
Peanut: You know how you’ve been feeling a bit like a barn with legs? Well, that feeling won’t subside before… well, you know, when you finally give birth. For the time being, you’ve got yourself a baby in the business of collecting fat and lots of it! In spite of the dubious joys of being a human-barn, this baby fat business is very serious and you’ve got to put up with it because it’s going to keep your little porker warm and healthy after birth. Other good stuff from inside: their eyes are doing lots of blinking this week because they’re now able to respond to light and dark. Also, their industrious little bone marrow is now a major construction site for developing red blood cells, while their super-cute adrenal glands are actually producing androgen and estrogen—which will stimulate your hormones to begin milk production. Can you say, “Moo?”

Me: If you’re not already fully entrenched, it’s just about time to head into the Name Game field. If you haven’t yet landed on “the perfect name”, there are only about a trillion books (check them out at Amazon.com) and websites with head-spinning lists of name possibilities. You can always opt to invent a name as well (like say, “Thygor”). Obviously, naming isn’t always the most straightforward or easy process and not every couple has a name for their child even after birth. Really, just take your time and try to consider any possible mean nicknames they might be inflicted with once they hit adolescence (i.e. What happens when you name your kid “Willy"?).

As if we have to tell you: their little “cute” kicks are getting stronger these days, but just pay attention. If you notice a significant drop in the number of kicks experienced per hour it would be a good idea to tell your physician or mid-wife. But before you start getting anxious, keep in mind that during the final weeks of pregnancy your in-house-football player will be kicking significantly less as they will lack the space to move about as vigorously.

the days just flies away...

I haven't updated in a week! :-o Well, perhaps that's because nothing new has happened really. We were at a market on Thursday, didn't buy anything really, just some snacks for us and doggie. Didn't find anything fun for Peanut either.

On Saturday I was at Fia's for a girl's evening with food and singstar. Very nice and fun company. Didn't get home until half two I think... ;-) Suitable for a mum to be? Perhaps not...

Today I've become a caro wner for the first time in my life. A little Ford Escort is coming home with us this weekend. It's from '82 but has only had one owner, my father in law's boss' mother. ;-) Got it cheap and it's supposed to be good both on the inside and outside. Very grown up is it not?

27 full weeks and last trimester!

So it's now less than three months left to due date. Oh, dear! It feels totally surreal that I'm gonna be a mommy in less than three months. A little baby is going to invade our life and make it totally different. I cannot imagine how it's gonna turn out, I have absolutely no clue. But I'm pretty sure we're gonna make it. ;) In one way or the other! ;)


The belly keeps on growing. At the moment I think it's just the right size, but it's inevitable that it's gonna get bigger and bigger... But that's ok. :) I like my belly and keeps caressing it all the time much to my friends' annoyance. ;)



Week 27: I'm a survivor, I'm gonna make it!
Peanut: Your not-so-tiny-anymore brilliant baby(about 2 pounds and 14.5 inches long!) is slowly rotating in preparation to “head out.” Obviously, this doesn’t happen overnight, but when you start to feel an unfamiliar pressure on your cervix, you’ll know you’ve got a fully flipped baby locked and loaded for the countdown to their birthday! Even now, at the beginning of the third trimester, their little lungs are already capable of breathing air while the pulmonary vascular system can provide sufficient gas exchange and the central nervous system can generally regulate rhythmic breathing as well as their basal body temperature. For what it’s worth, at this point in a healthy pregnancy a premature child (with intensive care) could easily win on the show: “Survivor: The Early Years.”

Me: You’ve worked hard, done your research, endured a plethora of joyless symptoms and would like nothing more than to have wonder-baby on the outside. Well, dig in for the final endurance round and say hello again to the familiar but not-so-lovable faces of fatigue and nausea. You guessed it, the dratted hormone factory is once again running at full-tilt (and causing rapid hair growth), sigh…. Your (“yaaaawn”) fatigue stems from several factors, including the proverbial weight gain, shortness of breath and of course, sleep deprivation. (See week 29 for tips on how to alleviate fatigue!).

Yes, ladies, you’ve finally reached the infamous “live-on-the-toilet” stage. Your feet are bigger, your breasts are bigger, your belly is bigger, even your baby is bigger—and something’s gotta give. Annoyingly, nature didn’t choose your butt and instead opted to compress your bladder, which is now being completely squashed by your-super-sized-baby... all day long. So your best shot is to just accept the fact you’re going to need to urinate every 10 minutes (and if you manage to go longer, thank the good lord).

Of course breast tenderness is also very common at this phase as milk production is kicking in. Other thrilling third-trimester symptoms include more swelling (known as edema) and feeling like you live in a sweat factory as a result of increased basal body temperature. Thank your baby: this temperature increase stems from their body heat coupling with your own, which of course all adds up to one hot mama!

Just in case you don’t have enough things to stress out about: we’d like to remind you the third trimester is really a time to kick your baby-on-the-outside preparations into high gear: baby-proof the home or apartment, buy a car-seat, get a stroller, dress up the nursery and plan a space for diapering, keep mulling over possible names, and try to enjoy this time… when you’re not nauseous, constipated, running to the toilet, or just plain wiped out. (And don’t forget to get your sleep, be active, and eat well! Phewee! we're tired just thinking about what you're going through!)