Progress?

On Friday, we went to see the doctor for our 39-week checkup...only 1 week to go!  We found out that things were starting to move along but there hadn't been much 'official' progress.  By Sunday we were on our way to the hospital...thinking this was it!  Contractions were only 2 minutes apart but you weren't quite ready for the trip (dilated 1 cm), so we headed back home.  Unfortunately it's been more of the same for the last couple of days...we're sticking close to home and anxiously awaiting the 'real deal!'

Baby shower at work

Mom's co-workers threw us your third baby shower last week, and Dad came to celebrate with us.  It was a really nice time - I was so surprised to see how many people showed-up and brought adorable things for you.  One of my friends knit you the most precious kimono sweater and matching bib, and another woman knit you a winter hat with matching mittens.  We have absolutely EVERYTHING we need now...and probably a lot of stuff we don't need too!

Be Mine

Dad and I took the opportunity to celebrate our last holiday together before your arrival...Valentine's Day 2009!  We went down to Mystic Lake Casino for steaks and spent some 'quality time' playing video poker.  Not only did we WIN, but we had a great night together.  Before we left for dinner, Dad surprised me with a beautiful new ring.  The ring has three blue sapphire stones...3 to represent our new family and blue to represent our little boy.  It was so thoughtful that I wanted to make sure to share the story with you.  As you'll soon find out, he is an incredible man.  He's going to be the best Dad ever!

Your mom, the jungle gym

Baby H,

I had to memorialize our very eventful 24 hours together.  Around 9:00 or 10:00 last night I thought labor was starting in a big & bad way.  I was timing the contractions and quickly realized that there was no break in between.  Turns out they weren't contractions at all - instead you decided to do a half somersault and try out the breech position for a while.  Luckily you didn't like it very much and you completed the somersault by the time I could get to the doctor today.  Trust me, with 2 weeks to go, there is NOT enough room in there for you to go breech.  The only way I can explain it is a very painful tidal wave in my stomach...

Today's checkup confirmed that things are moving along - 40% effaced and your head is fully engaged in the downward position.  Because of your shenanigans, the doctor did another ultrasound to be sure everything looks o.k.  Following are two of the best shots.  In the first one, you're grabbing your foot with your hand.  In the second one, you're playing peek-a-boo and puffing out your cheeks.  We can't wait to meet you, little monkey!

Drake shower!

Mom's girlfriends from college (Erica, Annie, Margit, Leslie, Lauren, and Sarah) all came to Minneapolis this weekend to throw a shower and celebrate your upcoming birth. It was so nice of them- they came from all over to spend time with us. The Minneapolis ladies (Molly, Beth & Katie) hosted an amazing weekend chock full of fun activities. The consensus is that we should name you "Drake" after mom and dad's alma mater, but we're still thinking you'll be "Bennett" or "Oliver"...I guess we'll have to wait and see! Everyone brought you some incredibly thoughtful gifts including a giant stuffed bulldog (Go Drake!), personalized onesies, and a tie-dyed receiving blanket. You are so lucky that you will get to know these women - they are all incredible people and they will be an important influence in your life. I'm waiting on pictures, but I wanted to post this before I forgot how much fun we had!

Not too long now!

Baby H,

We've had two appointments since I posted my last update.  At the 36-week checkup we were told that you had officially 'dropped' and the process was starting, but Dad was given the 'all clear' to go on his work trip to Las Vegas.  I was convinced you would make your appearance while he was gone, but you were patient - thank you!  Unfortunately there was no change at the 37-week checkup, but we're hoping everything will start to progress sooner than later now that Dad is home!  Only THREE WEEKS now little buddy - I hope you decide to make the trip soon...we're anxiously awaiting your arrival and I don't think my stomach can get much bigger!!