I'm a Genius, Apparently

So, my dumb childbirth class is done. The last class of the series really highlighted just how dumb some people are. Or at least completely unprepared for this whole childbirth thing. I give a pass to you nonpreggos and nonmamas reading this, but just take my word for it when I say that if you have reached your second trimester not knowing the answer to these questions, something is wrong. Especially if you've sat through the other classes we've had!

**What is cord blood banking? (she wasn't asking for clarification- she had never heard of it)

**Are there reasons not to circumcise your baby? (again, not asking what these reasons were, she was genuinely surprised anyone wouldn't)

**What does a birthing ball feel like? I've never sat on one. (It's an exercise ball, people...)

** I didn't realize we had to deliver the placenta after the baby... (My personal favorite, even thought it's not really a question)

We start our second childbirth class tomorrow, because we're overachievers like that. Even though apparently we are not the ones that need these classes. Oh well. I really wanted to take a Bradley series, but the day of the week wasn't good for us, so it's the Birthing From Within series instead. Let's hope this goes better!!

Updates

I have little to report, besides the fact that I can make my belly button "pop" simply by inhaling deeply. Talk about a fun party trick.

Things at work have been busy, and it's harder and harder to keep up my energy with the kids at work... Said kids are growing increasingly impatient the baby is not here yet....I'm finding some friends like to talk to me less and less, which is awesome.... I got a really cool rocking chair off craigslist which I'm super pumped about!.... And our nursery is allllmost complete; it's a very happy yet calm, quiet space. I like to hang out there and just think about boo boo and everything that awaits us!

I have two basic hospital choices available through my insurance. One is here in SF, and the other is about 20 miles away (all highway). I had been leaning toward the latter, as they employ nurse-midwives and seemed to reflect less of the stern, strict, hospital-feel. I had my tour of the SF hospital last night, and was pleasantly surprised by it. They handed out a birth plan 'cheat sheet,' that listed many options that we could check off that I had assumed I would have to fight for in a hospital setting. I was assured that I wouldn't be hooked up at an IV 'just in case' since I am planning for a natural birth, would be not only be allowed but encouraged to shower and walk about the hospital as I saw fit, and that I could even have ammenities like a squatting bar brought in if I liked. I can have all newborn procedures delayed for the first hour, and any such bathing or procedure be done in my room. Basically all the things I feared would be a struggle were handed out on a silver platter. My appointment to see the other hospital is in July.

I think that's about all... And I know I'm behind on my 31wk pics. I'm terribly sorry.

Busting Out

So, boo boo has gotten bored with the usual kicks and punches. His movements now are more like a full body slam and prolonged push into me. I can only assume he is trying to break out of my belly, much as one would try to break down a door. I'm trying to convince him this isn't the best idea ever.

CONTEST

So, I'm starting a contest for who can guess boo boo's birthday. Entrants will win a super prize! Which I am also taking suggestions for.

Contest Rules: 1. You must enter your guess as a comment to this post. No other guesses or remarks count.

2. No duplicate entries. The first person to comment with a given date calls it.

3. My guess is August 10. So his bday can be 8-10-9, which I think is cool.

Go!