38 weeks 2 days

We're ripening! I found out at the doctor yesterday that I am over 50% effaced and I have dilated 1.5 cm. I have not been having real contractions, however. The fact that my cervix is getting ready for delivery before I go into labor is a good thing; apparently, this ripening makes labor progress more easily with less chance of requiring pitocin during labor. Another good thing I heard from Dr. Green yesterday is that Ezra did not grow very much over the past week! That means he might not be as scary big as I am afraid he'll be. Our bags are packed and ready for the hospital. We just have to figure out that darn car seat.

Mom and dad dropped by last night to pick up a few things I have for their house, and I have never seen my mom so happy. She skipped! It was a genuine movement, not forced, contrived, or awkward, and she reminded me of a carefree 7-year-old. Obviously, she is very excited to be a grandma.

One thing I can complain about this week is that I have caught a cold. I think it's funny, honestly. I usually get sick about twice a year, one time being a ferocious bout with bronchitis. However, I have been a pillar of good health throughout this pregnancy--not counting the morning sickness, obviously. And now that I am in the earliest stages of labor, I get a gnarly cold. The breathing airways kept me up all night, and when I did sleep I snored violently (according to Bo). I woke up drenched in sweat, then I again I awoke with fierce shivers. FUN! The gods are punishing me for my hubris. I was so proud of my lack of illness throughout my pregnancy that I actually bragged about my "super pregnant lady immunity." Lesson learned.

Note to Ezra: You're still moving as if nothing has changed. If you're feeling sick with me, I can't tell. Every time I say "ouch" because you've head-butted me, your dad thinks I'm going into labor and switches into crisis mode. He's very excited to meet you, baby... and soon!