31 Weeks

Here we are at 31 weeks. Growing, growing, growing! (if the picture appears strange, it's because I had to touch it up; my back is to the light, therefor creating a shadow, and the shadow makes me look bigger than I am. ) Looking at last week's picture confirms for me that Jellybean was in a strange position then, making me appear larger. Can't you just imagine babe snuggled up in there?!

Here's another angle of this big ol' belly.

No "snooze button" yet (as it was referred to in the movie Juno) . Actually, I don't think my belly button is going to pop out. I've always thought "outies" on pregnant bellies were so cute!

I know it's far too early, but I'm getting really anxious to meet this little one! The more Jellybean moves (and hiccups, which is a lot), and the larger my tummy gets, the more I imagine what he/she looks like and acts like. But my imagination only goes so far. I'm excited, and of course a bit nervous, about the birth. I still feel confident it's going to go well. I think if I'm nervous about one thing more than another, it's that I don't want it to happen before it's time. Once we pass the 36 week mark, I'll feel much less anxious ("5 weeks, Jellybean; hold on!") I also just want to know everything is alright in there, and that all is developing as it should be.

This is going to be a short post, as my fingertips are excruciatingly prickly, which of course makes typing really unpleasant. The carpal tunnel syndrome is only getting worse, and making life a bit challenging (to say the least). I plan to do some acupuncture this week, and speak to a woman in the know about herbs that can help with the fluid retention and inflammation.

Physically (aside from the fingers), I still feel pretty good. I'm feeling A LOT of pressure on my pelvis, and that can be plenty uncomfortable at times. Getting tired a lot easier, so naps are sounding like a better and better idea everyday. Just can't get into the routine. Soon, though, I'm sure I'll be forced to find the time, if I want to be at all functional. Emotionally, I just get a little taxed with the days and days of fingertip numbness and prickles, but otherwise, awesome! I can be a bit moody, but I think I'm holding an even keel for the most part (guess you'll have to ask my husband for the truth on that one). Jellybean was really quiet the other day, and that put me into a bit of a funk. Mentally, all thoughts are on babe and getting things ready. Well, about 98% of my thoughts, anyway. What else is there, right? :)

I should note that we'll be registering for gifts soon. We shouldn't be needing too much, but a lot of what we do need is not inexpensive, unfortunately. We'll register for what we can at Twin Cities Green (you can check out our registry at their online store when we have one). Other items we'll (regrettably) have to look to Target to fill. Please don't feel obligated to gift, but if you want to and can't afford much, we could always use the gift of time. I'd love to see as many of our friends and family, as much as possible, in the next few weeks. Come visit! Or, if you're talented in the kitchen, you could always whip up something delicious that freezes well. Having easy meals - as in, from the freezer to the oven - for post birth would be a wonderful gift!

Until next week...