Estimated Date of Confinement

I learned a while back that the medical term for "due date" is actually the estimated date of confinement. I was thinking about this the other day and in some ways for a mommy of two just over a year apart in age, this may actually be an appropriate description. I'm one week away from my due date and feel like I have a million and one things on my to do list to complete in that time. Things that don't get done, just won't happen in the next several months or even years.  I also feel like I'm going to be lucky to have showers, or leave my house for a long while. My me time will be a thing of the past. This past week I've been treating myself to fancy drinks at coffee shops, reading, and sewing up a storm when my daughter is not with me. Don't get me wrong I still feel like the luckiest woman alive to have not just one, but two miracles. Life wouldn't be interesting if nothing ever changed.

The old cervix was checked yesterday and it's 2cm dilated and 75% effaced. I've had a fair bit more cramping, discharge and pelvic pressure since yesterday's check, so If I had to guess this little guy is coming right around the estimated date. Fingers crossed for a quick labour and uncomplicated delivery.

Off work

I finished up at work on Friday after seeing my doctor on Thursday. He recommended I stop working given all the cramping I've been having and that my weight and measurements hadn't changed in 3 weeks. He felt my baby needed all the energy I have to stay put and grow a bit bigger. I finished just a week and 2 days earlier than planned. Initially the administrator balked at me taking sick time to cover it, and actually had the nerve to tell me that I "wasn't sick, just pregnant". The last I checked pregnancy complications were considered legitimate medical issues. Treating someone that way could actually be considered discrimination. I confronted her about it and she did apologize. It looks like I should be fine to qualify for enough hours to take my maternity leave as long as I stay pregnant for another week.

The baby has dropped a lot in the last few days. I can feel a lot if pressure on my pelvis now, and make about a million trips to the bathroom each day. The nice part is that I can breathe and eat full meals again, so those combined with some rest time should help this little guy grow. I remember last time feeling like the baby was going to fall out of me. My daughter remained in that position for 4 weeks, so I don't think it means I'm going to pop imminently. There's still a ton to get done to feel ready, and my energy is limited, and most of it goes to chasing after my 15 month old. Ah well, I know we'll never be fully prepared.

Anika is quite sturdy on her feet now and is starting to climb everything in sight. She's almost fast enough to get away from me now, especially if I'm sitting on the floor and have to get up to chase her. She giggles and usually goes for something she knows is a No No. I'm sure this isn't what my doctor had in mind in terms of rest!