The Nursery

We finally got a mattress. We had been struggling with information we had on chemicals in conventional mattresses and the alternative which costs at minimum 3 times as much ($260). We finally opted to buy a $60 mattress cover that is air-tight, waterproof and organic cotton flannel and a conventional mattress ($80) which was produced after 2/09 when the pthalate law changed (Google it if you care). The owner at Peapods estimates that it blocks something like 75% of the gases that can be emitted by chemical flame retardants and plastics in the mattress. This all probably seems crazy to everyone, we all turned out fine, right? Well, if you consider the expense over the 4 years he can use the mattress, I didn't feel bad about being sure-we just can't flipping afford it right now.

2 cm dilated, 70% effaced...

So, last Friday I had my first appointment where the midwife "checked" me. I was 25% effaced, station -1 and not dilated at all. Today, a mere 5 days later, I'm 70% effaced and 2 cm dilated. So, we're on our way.

We still have to get the crib mattress and Baby Beck only has one valance, but I'm lazy and enjoying the last few weeks, days, hours of this pregnancy. He's going to be in our room at first anyway.

Today was Opa's funeral. He died peacefully in hospice care last Friday after a several months of deteriorating physical health and cognition. It was a fantastic service and included nearly as many laughs as tears. What more can you hope for out of a funeral?

The Fun Part

I'm sure there will be lots of fun parts, many including craft projects. Tonight I made these three owls fashioned after the fabric we used for the valences. The picture is sucky, but I used gloss medium, paper, feathers and thread. They turned out pretty well. Frames are from Ikea, of course.

Best Laid Plans...

I'm trying not to psych myself up too much with expectations of delivery. I'm optimistic. We're finally getting our bag packed for the hospital. All I can do is be prepared as much as possible and try not to lose my mind. Last night was rough. I was sore all over and didn't sleep well...got up every hour or two...not typical, but sucky nonetheless.

But, I can't complain. In the last week a co-worker and my sister-in-law both miscarried. While I'm worried about weight gain and sleep and heartburn, they're mourning their losses and probably considering starting the process over and looking at an anxious road ahead. I remember feeling like that even for that day in November and I know I am fortunate.

As of my appointment last week I had gained 24 pounds. I'm getting a little bit ahead of myself but I honestly don't see how it is my fault. I'm eating well and not too much...here's hoping that it is water weight. Baby is still head down, good heartrate, etc.

And we think we know what we're going to name him. We're trying it out right now, if we decide for sure we'll let everyone know. It shouldn't be a surprise to anyone.