36 weeks

It's 6am and I decided that rather than lay in bed waiting to fall back asleep I'd get up. I've been up since 5, this sleeping thing is really getting on my nerves.

We're at 36 weeks now and next week Emma will be considered full term. I am super excited about that since I have been reading so many posts about babies in NICU - one that died this morning at 3:30. It's so very sad and I am so thankful to have carried Emma to term with no complications. I am truly blessed.

I had my last baby shower this past Saturday and have so many people to thank for their generosity. First, thanks to Nikki, Sammie and Barbara - the shower was beautiful and I can't find the words to thank you enough for taking the time and putting such a personal touch on my day. I love you all very much and want you know how much I appreciate you. I also want to thank all my friends and family for all the wonderful gifts. Emma is so lucky and Dave and I are blessed to have you all in our lives.

I definitely feel prepared after this weekend, well, as far as "things" go. Dave keeps asking about my bag and wants me to get packed so that's on my list for this week. It's just strange that it's time for that already... mentally I am not there yet and I really don't think I will be until she's here.

My friend Sammie took some maternity pictures of me this past weekend and I am so excited to share some of them with you. I have only a handful now but will have the rest in a few weeks to share. She did an amazing job and I am so lucky to have such talented friends. Dave even saw the pictures and asked "is that my wife?". I guess I haven't been too sexy lately!

Well, I know you're dying to see... so here are a few...

Here's the update for this week:

Your baby is gaining 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 hair that covered her body, as well as the vernix caseosa, the waxy substance that protected her skin during her nine-month amniotic bath. Next week, your baby will be considered full-term.

We have another appointment on Thursday and if we're still in good shape Dave will be heading up to PA to visit with his granddad. I wish I could go but I'll be sending love up with Dave, Mr. Bill, Scott and Uncle John. Granddad has been bedridden for a few months now and I know he will be happy to see his sons and grandsons. I want to bring Emma up after she's born but not sure when, maybe early spring.

Well, since I'm motivated I best get some work done. Love to all...