I went to the doctor this morning and found out that my cervix is 1 cm dilated and 50% effaced! Woohoo! The goal is 10 cm and 100% effaced, but anything after 5 cm is considered active labor, so I'll be at the hospital by then. The doctor did say that this doesn't indicate that I am close to delivering, but the more I dilate now the better.
My hospital bag is pretty much packed (I need to throw in some more clothes and snacks) and the baby's office room is at least somewhat ready to go (I've got clean sheets on the crib, Gary moved the glider chair upstairs, and we have clean clothes and diapers galore.) Gary's big job is to get the car seat installed (I'd do it myself, but I'm a little unwieldy right now). My big job is to walk a lot, which will help with dilation.
All right, you are getting there soon! Make sure to have a GOOOOOD meal before admitted to the hospital. BTW have you finalized the name yet?
Good luck! enjoy the journey ......
Posted by: Donna at July 14, 2005 11:22 AMDonna's right, you will be starved by the time the baby comes if you don't eat early in the process. I'm so excited for you and Gary! You will be awesome parents. Can't wait to see pics,
Kathryn
Woohoo! You're almost there. Sounds like the baby will most likely come out on time. We're waiting to hear the good news anytime now. As for us here at work, things have been coming along. I haven't done any cluster stuff since you're gone so I don't have any questions for you yet. You're off hook for now. :) So enjoy the remaining time off before the little guy comes.
Warm Wishes,
Joana
Hi Jen that sounds like great news. Your very fortunate to be home to enjoy this beautiful weather, while you take your walks. Don't forget to ask Gary to take a lot of pictures once the baby is born. I can't wait to meet your baby.
Atossa
p.s. work is so quiet and different without you here. You are missed :-(
Atossa
Posted by: Atossa at July 14, 2005 11:49 AMHey Jennifer,
You're almost there...He will soon be here. Anyhow, my only advice to you to enjoy every minute of it because your son is sure a blessing for you and you're family.
KD & KC can't wait to meet there new born friend.
Angie
Posted by: Angie at July 14, 2005 12:14 PMWow!!!! That is so exciting. Can't wait to meet him!!!
Posted by: Rosaura at July 14, 2005 01:29 PMAlmost there Jen,
Remember to tuck your chin downward into your neck when you push so you won't pop the blood vessels in your head. I did that with Olivia and ended looking like I had chicken pox after delivery!
We will be driving up to the Bay Area July 27th from LA, then heading back to China August 14th.
Cheering you on,
Hug and loves....
Annie (aka fried of the semi-educated penguin) :)
You are in our thoughts and prayers
Oh, yes, the time is approaching...you will do just fine, Jen, just remember to relax your attitude when your body is doing the hard work of opening up and letting new life through. Having a picture or poem or prayer--to focus on, was a help to me during the process. For me, it was the tarot card, "Strength". It was a woman holding open the mouth of a lion. You will have Gary there, too.
Let your support system know what you need at any moment, and don't be afraid to get up and do some moving or brief walking, if you feel the need; I did, and it seemed to get things moving forward. I remember sucking on ice chips really helped keep me hydrated. I also remember cleaning the house like crazy, just before I went into labor with Heather. I should have conserved. Don't wear yourself out! That burst of energy is meant to be used during the intense times ahead. Wet, warm, oily (almond or massage, not scented) compresses on the perineum can help you to not tear, too, as you slowly dilate. You can ask your support person to apply it.
What else is coming back to me? Good news--First Babies are usually the quickest!
Tell Gary minor to let us know when your labor begins and you are on your way to the birthing center; we will be thinking of you and wanting updates from him.
And please, please keep in mind this important fact: the intense work has a great purpose and will come to an end; the fruits of your labor will be the best gift.
Warm wishes,
Emily
Hi Sounds like you have lots of family and friends who will be thinking of you when your son chooses to come into this world - These thought energies/prayers sent out to the Universe will be beneficial for all three of you (Jen/Gary/Baby) - Just Dilate - Dilate - Dilate - and enjoy the rest if this wonderful journey/experience. Love to all Aunt Kathy
Posted by: Aunt Kathy at July 15, 2005 07:02 AM