Home for the Final Stretch

This week, it really started to sink in that we will meet our baby girl very soon. Somehow, it's already almost time. After my contractions continued throughout the week, I went in for an early visit to the doc. Everything checked out great, but to try and prevent an early labor, my doctor asked that I stay home on bed-rest for the remainder of my pregnancy. While I hate leaving work early, I am proud I made it this far (only 3 1/2 weeks to go) - feeling great, with no complications. Plus, I'll be able to work a little bit from home. I've only been out a few days, and I have to admit that the lack of activity has helped. I'll be sure to appreciate this time I have to relax before it's time to be a mommy.

To ensure everything is on track, in the case that this baby does decide to come early, we went for our last ultrasound. All was perfect with her growth and she's even in the right position (for the time being)! And, we were surprised to learn that they estimate she is already 6 pounds, 1 ounce! Wow - what a healthy little girl! They did the 3D ultrasound, which was just so awesome. It was an amazing feeling staring at little Kamryn Marlee in my belly, squirming around, waiting to come into the world.

So, it's evident that there's not long now. Her clothes are washed, the car-seat is installed in my new car and our bags are just about packed for the hospital. We couldn't be happier. Any occasional discomfort I feel or trouble I have getting around seem so insignificant compared to the excitement I feel for the upcoming birth of our daughter. Plus, I'm so thankful for such a helpful, happy husband that is making this experience what it is.

Until next time, friends... Have a great day!

We'll Meet Her This Month (& She Has a Name)!

Well, we have had a fast-paced, event-filled couple weeks! As I've mentioned before, things seems to be falling right into place, just at the right time. I'm over 34 weeks along and have just over 4 weeks until the scheduled delivery of our baby girl. We're so excited. One of the most exciting new developments is that we've decided on a name. On November 30th (or before), we can't wait to welcome Kamryn Marlee Rhoades into this world!

So, I'm absolutely thrilled to share the news of my new car! Those that know me personally know that I love cars and drove a red truck with flames on it (affectionately called my "Hotwheels" truck) for the last 10 years. It was all equipped with hand controls and a lift from Bruno Independent Living Aids, Inc., and it worked perfectly for me. Plus, it was paid off, which was nice. When the motor went out for the second time in February, I was pretty bummed. Not long after, I found out I was pregnant. Suddenly being faced with having to find a new vehicle that would be accessible for me, work with a new baby, accommodate my wheelchair and my companion dog and be affordable was challenging, to say the least. However, we were able to work with a fantastic local dealership, that also modifies vehicles, and just a few days ago, I drove home my new Mazda 5.  Zoom zoom.

My new "compact wagon" is really cool, although a big change from what I'm used to. The little lift (by Adapt Solutions) tucks my wheelchair snugly behind my driver's seat, leaving four seats open for passengers - one, of course, already reserved for a car seat. It drives great and fits me like a glove. I want to extend my sincerest thanks to the great people at Milton Martin Honda in Gainesville, Georgia, as well as all the others that helped make this happen! I'm so fortunate to be surrounded by this wonderful community and SO happy to be independent again!

In the last week and a half we've attended two awesome baby showers! The first, hosted by my Aunt and Uncle, was a beautiful dinner party - complete with our own chefs!  This past weekend, two of my closest friends hosted a perfect little afternoon get-together. We got so many adorable baby gifts and have had a blast checking each item out in great detail. But, the best part about both parties was spending time with the best people we know and seeing how much love they all already have for our baby girl. She is surrounded by love.

While I'm still feeling considerably well, over the past week, I've been experiencing some increased Braxton Hicks, or "practice contractions." Exams at the doctor have gone well, with me showing no signs of labor. However, over the past two days, increased activity or even a hint of dehydration will increase my contractions - which we don't want at this point. So, the doctor advised me to reduce activity, drink as much water as I can stand and pay close attention to my body. It's difficult to back off when there's so much to do, but I know it's what needs to happen right now. My most important job is to take care of this baby. So, I'll continue on this path and take the next few weeks one day at a time - and make sure to keep on smiling.

It's amazing that it's already November and that we'll meet little Kamryn Marlee this month. I'm looking forward to the holidays this year with a new and special excitement. Enjoy your week and thanks for reading!