21 weeks

I am definitely feeling pregnant now.  Mostly in the not so good ways, like lots of uterus and ligament discomfort (mild), but still not much in terms of feeling the baby.  Clothing myself is getting more difficult and I went out to buy 4 longer shirts yesterday that would cover the bump (I was getting tired of my belly crack showing).  My belly isn’t super obvious as pregnant yet to a bystander who doesn’t know me, but those who do, would definitely notice a bump in the baby area.  It is amazing how much the bump has grown in just 2 weeks.  Now I can’t wait to feel the baby move consistently (rather than a few odd sensations here and there)!

We have been pretty productive in terms of getting things done around the house. Last week was EXTREMELY busy with going to a friend’s gender reveal party (a GIRL!), hosting a girls night (so cleaning and prepping for that), and also getting 90% of the office set up.  We moved the bookcases in and reorganized all the books (including a very big box of books to give away).  We also moved in a small dresser to hold the printer and provide a little extra storage.  The layout worked out great and we even have a perfect corner for storing our DDR pad (which I couldn’t figure out where to store before).  All that is left is to move a few textbooks off the existing book shelf so I have room to shelve my files and to move the 3^rd dvd rack into the office and reorganize all 3.  I am really glad now that we tore down the wisteria last year since it allows much more light in this room which will keep me sane when I am cooped up and working all day.

We also did a lot of thinking about the baby room last weekend.  I think we have decided on oak furniture for the dresser and crib and we are settled on the undersea theme for decoration.  I found some really cute fish decals for the walls and we’ll paint the room a nice sea green/blue (think Caribbean).  We are looking for a good rug for the center of the room (it is hard wood and uncomfy to stand on), and although we found one we liked for 500 bucks, we are tempted by the 30 dollar Ikea rug that is not as cool, but certainly a better price if the rug gets puked on/peed on/etc.  Once we pick the rug we can pick the specific color of sea-colored paint for the walls.  I am not much of a decorator, but I have enjoyed thinking about this (although it does get a little overwhelming for me since decorating isn’t my strong point).  It was nice to be able to ask the Microsoftie Wives for advice (thanks girls!).

Health-wise the last two weeks has been up and down.  Two weeks ago I had a rough stomach week and had some trouble eating and lots of cramping, discomfort.  That has sorted itself out and now my big complaint is terrible fatigue.  I am tired all the time and sometimes dizzy as well which may be related to anemia (although apparently according my nurse, my iron isn’t significantly low yet).  For now, I will just keep trying to eat well and take care of myself (rest when I need). 

I am past the half-way mark now.  I am excited.  I find myself strangely not anxious about parenting a newborn or labor.  Possibly this is because I am not someone who worries in general but also I just feel so confident with Charles and myself and our planning, that I feel like we’ll be able to deal with anything that happens.  I like the feeling of calm I have.  I know I don’t have all the answers, but I feel good that Charles will be my partner in crime and that we’ll have plenty of family and friends around to help if we need it.  We also have a labor doula hired and our looking to hire a post-partum doula.  This preparation fills me with even more confidence.