Baby Umland - 36 Weeks

Another week behind us! We are getting closer! I'm not going to officially start the countdown because I know it can be another 4-6 weeks until we meet Baby Umland. Robert is ready for our child to be born. I quickly remind him, we should let Baby cook a little longer. Next week (37 weeks), Baby Umland is considered close to term because of the development of its lungs and other body organs. I'm on board to wait a few more weeks for more baby development/growth; and to take time to finish some projects and spend time as a family of two (well 2.5 with Chester ;)

This week marks the end of our Childbirth Class. Robert changed his very first diaper! The 6-week class was very beneficial for new parents. We talked about pregnancy, labor, delivery, breastfeeding and childcare. The instructors were very knowledgeable and we felt comfortable asking questions and discussing all the unknowns! Out of the eight couples who started in the class, only three were left on the last night. They had either given birth or were on their way to delivery. And they all had/were having girls!

We will now be checking in with our doctor every week to monitor Baby Umland and me. This week, we were sent in for an ultrasound to check the baby's position. Head is down and baby is in the correct amount of fluid. I'm not dilated yet, which will be checked every time I go in. It was neat to see the baby at 36 weeks. He/She was still crunched up like a taco and basically had its face smashed into the placenta. A profile pic was hard to come by, but we got a picture of our baby's lips and mouth!

Both our companies have helped in our journey to parenthood. I've received a very generous maternity leave and have been showered with gifts, a manicure, gifts and more gifts. Robert's company has held a shower for us and gave us diapers, gifts and gift cards! We are truly grateful for all the support that everyone around us has put forth. We are blessed to work with great people!

Next Up:

- Car Seat check with the Fire Department

- Weekly Doctor Appointments

- Pack the Hospital Bag

- Let the nesting begin

Baby Umland's Growth: Baby is still gaining weight – about 28g a day. It weighs nearly 2.7kg and is about 47cm long from head to toe. You may begin to feel an increased pressure in your lower belly and notice that your baby is gradually dropping. This is called lightening or engagement, and your lungs and stomach will finally get a chance to stretch out a little – breathing and eating should become easier.

For Fun! Robert and I set up a 'Baby Umland Pool' to guess baby's gender, due date, height, weight, etc. If you would like to participate in this free pool, please visit: http://www.babyhunch.com/poolpage.php?poolid=b9ca8a0234220447641f03380d15fa3d.