Dropped Like a Hot Potato and Other Interesting Developments

As I wind down to the end of my pregnancy, I've been noticing some interesting developments. First, my belly totally "dropped" yesterday. Or at least it sure looks like it did. I snuck out of the house to pick a few last minute Christmas presents, and just as I was leaving Dick's Sporting Goods, I felt a big release inside my belly. Kind of like a thud, but with no sound : ) I looked down and noticed my belly has completely changed shape. It wasn't cute and round anymore - now it was low and oblong. Very strange. I can't really wear the shirts I've been able to get away with for so long now because my baby belly sticks out underneath. Hopefully this is a sign of her imminent arrival.

Second new development... I looked in the mirror last week and saw that my roots are coming in MUCH darker than usual. Yes, there is still gray inter-mixed (BOO!) but my hair is usually a mousy brown, and it's coming in a deep chocolate color. I've heard pregnancy can change the texture of your hair - but the color? Maybe its God's way of preparing me so I actually look like my baby is related to me : ) At least we'll have the same hair color. And chin.

Third development... Insomnia. I usually head up to bed around 10:00 each night, watch some TV, then dose off around 10:45 - 11:00. Well - I can't seem to fall asleep lately until close to midnight, and then I wake up bright eyed at 3 a.m.! From 3-6 a.m. I wander around the house, doing laundry, cleaning, paying bills - then I get tired again around 6:15 and head back to bed. Not fun. But I'm thinking my body is preparing for being up all hours of the night with the little one.

Fourth development... Taking time for myself. Over the last week, I realized that I will soon have a sidekick with me wherever I go. You're probably thinking: Yeah, DUH! But seriously, it finally dawned on me that this is the last week of life as I currently know it, and have known it for the last 26 years. So I've really been savoring it. I've been taking the time to blowdry and style my hair each morning - which is something I really haven't done due to the hot flashes since I became prego. On Monday I went and got a manicure, pedicure AND eyebrow wax. SO relaxing (and I need to look good in the hospital photos : ) ) On Tuesday AND Wednesday I went out to lunch by myself. I know this sounds crazy, but I have never really done that before. I always thought it would be uncomfortable to sit at a table by myself. But it wasn't uncomfortable at all! I actually really enjoyed the people watching.

So that's life right now. Fingers crossed I go into natural labor over the next few days. If not, the doctors decided it would be best for them to induce me on Sunday/Monday. I can't believe it's almost time. The last nine months have literally felt like a LIFETIME - but now that my baby's arrival is right around the corner, it feels like time is flying by. Ready or not, here comes the next chapter in life!