Stretching, squats, and entertainment

Week 27

My little boy is just as active as ever. It’s so much fun to watch my belly move as he twists, squirms, and kicks. Andrew and I have had conversations with him and he seems to respond by kicking. It’s almost like having a Magic 8 Ball for a belly. We ask a question and judge the answer based on whether or not baby kicks. It is quite entertaining.

Speaking of entertainment, on Friday we went to a good friend’s house for a cookout. I’m so grateful to have such good friends. Sometimes I get frustrated that I can’t do all the things I used to. Everyone makes me feel like that is okay. So, I didn’t play basketball. I still had a great time. The food, yes I enjoyed that. Grilled chicken and s’mores for dessert, who could say no?

I’m still not used to being asked about my health so frequently. I’m glad I have little to complain about. This heartburn is a pain and I still get legs cramps once in while. Overall, I’ve been healthy and can still do most things. I do appreciate everyone’s concern. When I take my Grandma shopping each week she won’t let me lift anything for her. Andrew asked if I needed help carrying a basket of laundry up from the basement. Grandma says, “Enjoy it now, this is the only time I’ll pamper you.”

I do think it is really important to get regular exercise during pregnancy. The experts agree. An aerobic workout, Kegels, squats, and stretching are particularly beneficial for expectant mothers. Restless Leg Syndrome is common during the last trimester. Exercise and stretching can help reduce RLS symptoms. If you get that creepy crawly or tingly feeling when you try to rest your legs you can also try avoiding caffeine and antihistamines or massage your legs.

Baby’s quick growth is continuing. He is about two and a quarter pounds and almost fifteen inches long. He is beginning to put on white fat. Mom’s weight gain, however, should slow to about three-quarters of a pound a week. Next month this will decrease to about half a pound a week. Of course, this is just based on average. A mother’s blood pressure may rise slightly this month. This is considered normal, but a drastic change can signal pre-eclampsia or other health problems.

Baby’s brain can now control body temperature and rhythmic breathing. Baby’s eyes can move in the sockets and sense light and darkness. He is becoming more attuned to sound, smell, and taste. His ability to survive outside the womb increases every day.

Sometimes I am overwhelmed with the fact that this baby could be born any day. I am not at high risk for pre-term labor, but it could happen. Andrew and I are planning on getting baby’s room done soon. There isn’t that much that needs to be done, mostly rearranging furniture. It’s a good thing that Andrew is so handy. I don’t think I’ll be much help moving or putting together furniture. I’ll do my part by organizing all baby’s things.

Please view my other blogs:

• How much bigger will I get?
• Health insurance changes mid-pregnancy
• Terra’s Own Birth Day
• Our wiggle worm
• Crafting, sports, pilates and…waddling?!
• Things are a’changing!
• It’s a boy!
• Communicating with your big belly
• Keepin’ it all straight
• Terra’s Announcement
• Terra’s Trip to the Midwest
• My Little Secret
• Terra’s First Few Weeks

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