The final lap...

Here we are... the final lap... 36th week... last month...

Yesterday, I had my final ultrasound after another NonStress test wherein baby boy was showing off his impressive ability to hit 175 beats per minute just by kicking around my womb as his cardio regiment. In the ultrasound, the baby was practicing his breathing and we watched as his torso took in amniotic fluid and stretched the muscles that will allow him to wail as soon as he sees daylight. Also, he was in perfect position for us to see him practice suckling. The doctor said that activity was a great indication that his neurological development is strong. His head was measured and, again, was evaluated to be perfectly average - not even close to large, as my sister in law, Jess, likes to tease me it will be. His torso, femur and other dimensions also indicate that he is on his way to perfectly typical birth weight/size.

This doctor asked me if we scheduled an induction date yet. I told her "no," I had not and would not be doing so, especially after last weeks' consultation with the other doctor who told me things were on track for a healthy outcome without medical interventions. She eventually agreed that I would be able to delay scheduling an induction, contingent upon Non-Stress Test results remaining highly reactive. However, she had to scare my mother before doing so, claiming that "IUFD" risk raised after 39 weeks for women with Gestational Diabetes.

After explaining that the terrifying letters stood for IntraUterine Fetal Demise, my mother gasped and seemed more ready to agree to an induction. However, we determined that an unqualified "increased risk" was not grounds for surrendering to potentially unnecessary medical interventions almost a month before they would be needed. So, we'll be watching the NST results, with particular emphasis on those results from the 39th week to determine if any medical induction is necessary. I am hoping that Baby Boy decides to appear between now and 39 weeks and make all this conjecture moot. Our plan is to agree to and abide by any interventions that are, honestly, medically necessary. However, we intend to reject any that are strictly precautionary or "policy" interventions without finding a danger to me or the baby that warrants such an effort.

With that sort of delivery time frame in mind, we have started the Evening Primrose Oil and Raspberry Red Leaf Tea as a means of naturally encouraging my body's participation. Also, Nathaniel and I are walking regularly to encourage his appearance. My father's birthday is Saturday, March 26. I can't think of a better gift to give a man than a grandson on his birthday... so, you know where I am aiming my prayers :)

So, with that update, work is starting to organize itself and fall into place in preparation for the baby's arrival and my subsequent maternity leave. I've still only gained 14 pounds, so we're on track for perfect weight gain... and, hopefully perfect weight loss :) We've finished our birthing classes and have a well-established birth plan. My friend, Heather, is on call to help me labor at home as long as possible. The nursery is finished, albeit minus the changing table. Our savings is in place and tax return will be a suitable cushion for us. I have quite a few things left to do (wash the car/place the car seat, identify a pediatrician, settle health insurance for the baby, etc), but am feeling MUCH more at peace about the baby coming any time he chooses now...

From what I've heard, however, this is the longest mile...