The class where we decided the Cervix will henceforth be referred to as the Tactalneck (Archer reference)

On Saturday, Johnathan and I participated in what seems a rite of passage for those on the way to parenthood...the childbirth class. I know some people don't bother with it and I could have thought myself too knowledgeable already (what with all my blog reading) to go too. But I figure, ignorance isn't bliss in this scenario. I want to know as much as I possibly can so that I won't be tempted to "freak out" on the day. Plus Johnathan hasn't been reading blogs or watching shows, so it couldn't hurt for him to learn a thing or two.

We decided to attend the class at the local hospital because it was cheaper and closer, even though we're not going there for the delivery. Although it seems to be a very nice place we're going to go to NC, for several reasons. 1. My doctors are all based in NC and 2. I have a long familial history of being born in NC and I didn't want to break that.

The class was supposed to be from 8:30 - 2:30 but the instructor zoomed through it so we could get out by 12:30. Johnathan was NOT looking forward to being there for that long (I may have told him it was 8 hours at one point). But I'll give him credit, he went with an open mind and wasn't a grumpus. The instructor was a nurse named Patty. I think she said she'd been delivering babies for 20 years so she was very knowledgeable, and perky. She called herself an old hippy and you could definitely tell she was. You could tell she had certain opinions on things, but she didn't seem too pushy about it. She's had 9 children, all naturally, so you could tell where she landed in that area.

A few things she got us thinking about:

• List positive (allowable) and negative (not allowed) words or actions during labor
• Research leaving the vernix on the baby. This is the covering on the skin that protects the baby's skin in the womb. Some people want the baby bathed right away, but according to Patty some people leave the vernix on and it can benefit the baby's skin for years to come. Anyone out there have an opinion on this? Leaving it on or not?
• Things to pack: back massager, focal point photo, aromatherapy, a journal to keep track of the happenings, etc
• The wonders of pear juice...I'll leave that to your imagination

What would a childbirth class be without breathing exercises?! There was an entire segment where we had to snuggle up to our partner and practice deep breathing in and out. The room was quiet and dark. And Johnathan made a farting noise on one of the out breaths. I BURST out laughing. Tried to get myself under control and then burst out laughing again! Like tears streaming down my face kinda laughing. Patty said she wanted to be in our delivery room. I think she's right, we will have the funnest delivery room in the hospital.

There was also the obligatory childbirth video. I wasn't sure I wanted to see it in all it's glory, but I didn't look away. Yeah, it was gross but it was also beautiful. I'll admit I got a little teary eyed. Another girl in the class started sobbing, her husband looked back at me like "I don't know what's happening!". Can't really say if she was crying because it was beautiful or terrifying :). I've always told Johnathan that I'd like for him to stay up at my head during the delivery to keep a positive image of me. I think he's on the fence about his preference. I guess if he REALLY wants to he can look...IF he really wants to. #idon'twanthimto

On Tuesday I had another OB appointment, they've already got me on the 2 week schedule. Everything checked out beautifully, no concerns. My belly is measuring 29 which she says you can't do much better than that. The baby's heartbeat was in the 140s and my blood pressure was good. My next appointment in two weeks is for another ultrasound and we'll see another doctor in her practice, just in case she isn't available for delivery. I was able to schedule it the day after Thanksgiving so Johnathan can come too!

                                                                         27 Weeks 6 Days

Due Date: January 30, 2012. We've finally reached the 3rd trimester, 82 more days!

Weight Gain: I've gained about 8 lbs, 1 lbs since my last OB appt 2 weeks ago.

Symptoms: Had a hellacious leg cramp this morning. I had to have Johnathan massage it.

Cravings/Aversions: Not enjoying the strong garlic smell coming from our fridge every time it's opened. Johnathan will cut it and store it in a zip lock and a garlic saver and it still stinks up the fridge to high heaven.

Sleep: Actually not too bad!

I am loving: Feeling her move every day!

I miss: Being able to do my job properly without making boneheaded mistakes.

I am looking forward to: Our next ultrasound with Johnathan!

Best thing about this week: The childbirth class, oh and buying our first fake Christmas tree. Holiday traditions here we come!

Milestones: 3rd Trimester

Movement: Mostly around eatin time. She takes after me :)

It's a...: girl!

Heart Burn: A little. Nothing a little Tums can't handle, lovin the peppermint flavor!

Belly button in or out?: In….barely! Each week my innie is getting smaller and smaller.

Labor signs?: Nope. Just the way I want it!