Stick a fork in me, I'm done.

Hmm.. if only that were true. Obviously, I'm not done, because I'm still around, pregnant as can be. But seriously? Yes, I am "done." The picture I have included for your viewing eyes is me at 38 weeks pregnant, taken a week ago. I can't wait to be holding our sweet little man in my arms and not like this in my big belly!
I had a doctor appointment on Tuesday, where they informed me that I was 2 cm dilated and 50% effaced. This could obviously mean a couple of different things, either any day or a few more weeks, who really knows. However, the biggest obstacle that we would like to overcome is this weekend. Brant is presenting a paper at the American Academy of Religion (AAR) conference in San Francisco on Sunday morning. It is huge honor and I wish I could join him while he is there. But alas. Maddie and I will remain in Pasadena, staying away from the hospital at all costs, until he returns. He leaves early Saturday morning and returns late Sunday night, so we just have to make it through those 2 days!

We are trying our hardest to think positively and plan on nothing happening, but each day it seems to get more difficult. I can feel my body progressing every few hours, and it is hard not to think that we are right around the corner with labor and delivery. We do have a contingency plan if the unfortunate "perfect storm" does occur. We have some fantastic friends and neighbors who are "on call" for me all weekend long, which would include watching Maddie and also taking me to the hospital and staying with me until Brant were to arrive. Whew! The unknowns of when a baby will be born! Never is it a seemingly convenient time, and yet, the timing will be absolutely perfect.

Nevertheless, we are pushing through, excited to get this show on the road, while also being filled with a few feelings of anxiety because we know what we are about to head into. My last day of work is next Wednesday, and then I will have close to 10 weeks off. Ahh. I'm looking forward to that break. With or without a baby, I just need to mentally step away from it all.
On Friday, we will welcome Brant's mom into town for several days, followed by a visit from my mom for several more days. We are very much looking forward to time spent with both of them, and bonding time for them with the kids (not to mention, the extra helping hands!!).

So, there you have it. You are about as up-to-date as you could possibly be. Keep your ears and eyes open for our big announcement!!