Craziness Breeds Confidence

FYI: If you haven't already visited, please stop by and congratulate Trish on her new baby boy. He was born a week ago at 26 weeks due to severe Pre-E and is such a little fighter, but your prayers and hugs would be much appreciated.
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I'm sorry it's been a week since my last post. It's been nuttier than squirrel turds at work. One of those weeks where if I weren't pregnant, I'd be partaking in happy hour for sure. Instead, I manage my frustration by stuffing my face with food. Seems like a fair compromise to me.

The weather has also been crazy in these parts. It is starting to feel like summer - with temps in the 80's and 90's. We had a tornado watch yesterday, complete with wind gusts up to 75mph. I came home to no power, which means no TV, laptop, air conditioning or stove. Utter hell for someone who is 8 months pregnant. Thankfully, the power came back on in the middle of the night so we only had to do without for about 6 hours. Many people in MD were still left with no electric as of this afternoon so we were fortunate.

Because of the insanity, I'm almost a week behind on NaComLeavMo. I'm going to do my best to catch up because I really don't want to bow out, but I'm feeling a bit overwhelmed at how much I have to catch up on. Say it with me - I suck.
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*P-word talk and pics from this point forward*

You're probably wondering how the birth class went. I can't say I learned much that I didn't already know but I do find that I have a newfound sense of confidence. I CAN do this. I have a whole new perspective - one of determination and contentment. Labor doesn't seem so frightening anymore.

DH and I practiced relaxation techniques including massage, the birthing ball, and breathing. We discussed the different types of pain management offered at the hospital and decided which ones we are comfortable with (epidural) and which ones we would like to avoid, if possible (narcotics). We watched several videos - one of a vaginal birth, one of a c-section and one about bringing home baby. We even had our hospital tour. I remember looking around the room and thinking to myself that we could be in that very same room in just 8 weeks (more or less). I find myself drifting away and imagining what our birth experience could be like. Of course, you can never really prepare for something like that. So unexpected and unbelievable. But it makes me feel good to stay positive and keep my mind focused on the prize.

I think DH also got a lot from this. Ever since it ended, he has been really pumped up about being my coach and taking an active interest in the birth. I think he definitely feels more connected to the baby as a result. His unabashed excitement keeps me going and we feed off of each other's energy. We both feel ready. Ready to meet this little guy. I just hope this enthusiasm continues to build over the coming weeks. It's invigorating to let go of the fear long enough to let this feeling wash over me.
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My boss did finally give me some pics from my surprise shower. I promise to upload them and share them soon, even though I look like a tool with no makeup and a stupified grin.

In the meantime, since the last ones I shared were from 11 weeks ago, I'll leave you with some belly pics taken last week at 30 weeks. We're getting there, baby. We're getting there.