31 Weeks and it's Time to find a Crib!

Today marks exactly 2 months from Nathan’s due date and I am totally biting the bullet. I guess it’s finally time for Dan and me to decide on a crib. After all, the little guy needs somewhere to sleep, right? This search is completely overwhelming. The only thing I know for sure is that I want a white crib. Beyond that, I am clueless. Fortunately, I have access to Consumer Reports thanks to my parents so one evening this week I am planning on putting a lot of time into researching. There are many theories about drop down sides, width of the bars, type of mattress, height of mattress, length of crib, 3-in-1, convertible, etc etc etc. I don’t remember even putting this much thought into anything major we’ve purchased!

Starting last week, my hips and legs began to ache. I think it’s from a combination of a few things. First of all, I am carrying roughly 20 extra pounds than I did pre-pregnancy. Second, my hips are widening to make more room for Nathan and prepare for delivery. Third, I am secreting 10 times the normal amount of the hormone Relaxin. Its function is to allow the joints in the pelvis to relax to allow the baby room to pass through the birth canal. From what I’ve read, Relaxin also causes abnormal motion for other joints in the body, hence the achiness. The secret I’ve found for this pain is to walk. I know that seems counterintuitive but for me, the increased blood flow from walking and moving around helps drown out the aches.

My feet are swelling now which isn’t fun. I am on the brink of having to break down and purchase a new pair of work shoes. I am looking at either something cozy like Easy Spirit or Naturalizer. Tennis shoes are getting a little tight too on my feet, although that may be due to socks I wear under them when I go to the gym or walk. Perhaps the solution there is wearing thinner socks or tying my laces a bit looser. Luckily my fingers haven’t swollen yet so I am still able to wear all my rings. I noticed last night that my rings were a little bit snugger when I took them off but hopefully I can get at least another month out of them.

Nathan’s awake and asleep times seem to be becoming more scheduled so that’s comforting. I can almost predict exactly when I’ll begin feeling him move. As for now, I think he remains asleep at night when I am so his movements don’t wake me up. From what I understand, that may change. I know it definitely will once he is born!

Nathan is now close to 18 inches long so he is almost the length he’ll be at birth. It’s hard to believe when I look down at my tummy that I have a baby almost full length in there. It’s estimated that he is close to 4 pounds too. I am glad babies don’t have memories of being in the womb. I’m sure they would be mighty uncomfortable ones.

My next appointment is Monday, November 2nd. I enjoy going to the doctor. Most of the people there know me by name and they are always so cheerful and pleased to see me.

Kisses!
Toni