What 9 months pregnant feels like

Ouchie. The hormones that loosen my ligaments are definitely doing their job this week! My hips, knees and feet are feeling it. My wrists feel like they will fall off after a day's work at the computer! Those are my biggest complaints though, so I know that I am lucky.

My belly continues to get bigger, as Harlowe gains her last couple of pounds (ish). Even some of my maternity clothes no longer fit! That's the problem with not really having a torso, there is nowhere for her to go but OUT. This week, several people have asked when I'm due, so I must be starting to look uncomfortably large. Which is just about the truth!

Now that my showers are complete, Chris and I have started filling in the holes. We are so fortunate to have such generous families and friends, so there were not that many holes! Now that that is mostly done, my stress level and oh-my-god-we-have-so-much-to-do craziness has calmed. I even did three loads of baby laundry today! Clothes, crib stuff, bibs and towels are all ready to go!

I'm really learning Harlowe's personality as she grows inside. For instance, she doesn't like when I rest my hands or arms on her. She kicks them away! Also, nighttime is jazzercise time. I always start lying on my left side, and she responds by straightening out in jerky motions. It makes me laugh and cringe, because she tickles my left hip and stretches my skin beyond normal levels simultaneously! It's time to start really treasuring these moments as the end draws near, since we will never be thisclose again. Having said that, I can't wait to meet my daughter!

34 Weeks...are we done yet?

Okay, so I've been a little busy this month. And a little tired, and a lot achy. Harlowe's gained almost 2 pounds in the three weeks since I last posted, and it's definitely noticeable!

See?! 

She's getting really heavy to lug around, and most evenings I wish I had a wheelbarrow to put the belly in. So basically, the countdown to her arrival is on! Her kicks and punches have switched to rolls and here, let me stick my butt/head/elbows/fists out. My poor skin is taking a beating, I tell you!

Significant progress has been made in the nursery...we're done with construction! Chris did a FABulous job in there; Miss Harlowe now has the best room in the house! She has a crib and a dresser, some decor, and a closet full of clothes already. We're looking forward to 3 (yes, 3!) showers in the next 2 weekends to really get prepared. We can't wait!