Merrie's Maternity Leave & Other Baby Stuff

Starting this week I am taking early maternity leave from Intel. The plan is still to induce on November 1st (unless the baby comes earlier) because of the gestational diabetes. My doctor advised that if my work interfered with taking care of the diabetes than I should take time off to concentrate on managing my food, blood tests, daily exercise, etc. So now I'm following his advice and it feels like a big weight has been lifted.

The plan over the next few weeks is to take it easy, make sure I fit in my daily 1 hour walks, or pre-natal yoga class or a 30 minute swim at the Queen Anne Pool. I need to make all my meals to make sure I am keeping my blood sugar down. I'll be running lots of baby related errands too- pick up the stroller, buy layette items, wash newborn clothes, pack the bags for the hospital. And nesting of course!!!

My weekly doctor's appointments have shown that the baby is healthy and active. He takes Non-Stress Tests every week to measure his heart rate while still and while moving- he loves to kick especially hard during these appointments. This week they showed that I am starting to have very small contractions which is a good thing. Hopefully that will progress during the month. I've had a couple of Braxton-Hicks contraction but they have not hurt, they'v been more uncomfortable than anything.

Finally, Derek and I started our Baby and Birth classes this past weekend. This was the first in a 4 Saturday series. So far we like the class and instructor and they didnt make us sit on the floor too long feeling silly practicing breathing and relaxing techniques.

We'll keep you posted as things move along this month.