27 weeks :)

 how far along? 27 weeks!

Claire’s size: almost 2 pounds… about the size of a head of cauliflower           
weight gain: forgot to ask :)
maternity clothes? Of course
stretch marks? 3
sleep? Much better- see below!

best moment this week? Making her mobile

food cravings: Grapes. Finally a healthy craving!
gender: Girl!
belly button in or out? In, though it’s starting to flatten out!
movement? She’s becoming a lot more active during the day. She’s certainly making sleep/wake patterns.
what I miss?  Nothing this week.

what I'm looking forward to: Enjoying the rest of this pregnancy and letting lil miss Claire grow and of course, decorating her nursery!

So, I’ve been sleeping soooo much better since I’ve purchased a body pillow. Seriously, if you are uncomfortable at night and haven’t tried one, get one today! I got mine at Walmart for less than $10 (cover was an additional $8). Your body will thank you!

I made a mobile for above Claire’s crib this week. I know I like it but haven’t decided if I love it yet. I probably won’t be able to decide until it’s in place, above her crib.

I also got to spend some much-needed time with my baby sister. She and I spent a day in Buffalo shopping. I purchased an adorable dress for my baby shower, which only a few weeks away (I cannot believe it!). My husband’s friend told him about a store called ‘Once Upon A Child’. I found one in Buffalo and decided to stop in to see what they had to offer. If you haven’t been to one, see if there are any in your area!! They sell {very} gently used baby clothes and accessories. I mean they have shoes, toys, furniture, baby gear, and so much more! They also sell new products, which are sold at much lower prices than most big box stores.

I had an appointment Friday, which went PHENOMENAL! My uterus is still measuring 2 weeks ahead, but my midwife said she won’t be concerned until it’s measuring 4 weeks ahead. She told me that it doesn’t mean that Claire’s a big baby, nor does it mean that I have too much fluid.

Over the past 3 weeks, I have been doing a ton of research on natural labor/birth options. Everything from birthing/laboring positions to childbirth classes to when to cut the umbilical cord to supplements to help ripen the uterus for birth. She was so incredibly knowledgeable and really set my mind at ease. I wrote a birth plan and she seemed to already practice everything I knew I wanted {as long as Claire and I are healthy}. I discussed my preference on induction, which she replied that she will let me go up to 42 weeks as long as our health is good.

I was super excited when she told me that she would absolutely be there for the whole thing. This was something I was somewhat nervous about- seeing her the whole pregnancy and then having some random OB deliver Claire. I realize that it’s not the worst thing in the world, but it was something I really cared about. My midwife has been an absolute dream this whole pregnancy and I really don’t want my care in anyone else’s hands.

I came across a really awesome website for natural births. It has tons of birth stories and even videos. Some of them are kind of graphic, but you get used to it ;) It’s overwhelmingly empowering reading other women’s experiences. It’s nice to know that people actually survive an un-medicated labor and delivery! If you are thinking about a natural birth, check out BirthWithout Fear.

I picked out Claire’s coming-home-outfit this week. Needless to say I’m becoming more and more ready for her arrival! Here’s a peek:

Grow Claire, grow!