Good afternoon. I’m here, so you know what that means—still waiting on the baby to make its arrival. I’m trying my best to stay put and relax, but gosh, this has felt like the longest week ever! I’ve been trying to keep myself occupied with cleaning, going on walks, cooking, and bouncing on my exercise ball with a bowl of pineapple and pregnancy tea. This will be my last recap until June, even if I don’t have the baby by Monday. I will still blog, but I’ll be taking a break from the recaps for a bit. I would love to get my third-trimester blog up, a few recipes, a nursery tour, and hopefully a birth story! 😊 I plan to spend this week with my feet up, going on my walks, and trying to relax.
One of my favorite parts of the day is grabbing my coffee and walking around the house, looking at which flowers have bloomed, and doing a little deadheading on them. I’m so happy it’s light out in the mornings now.
We are still waiting on some custom shades we had made for the nursery to arrive. I think they’ll be here by Thursday! Once those go in, I can take some photos and do a little nursery tour. Again, we aren’t planning on doing any artwork until we know if the baby is a boy or girl.
I finally decided to get my nails and toes done on Monday! I went with a light green color, but as soon as I left the nail salon, I realized the lighting made it green, but it was a light blue. I keep getting messages that it’s a hint about gender, but I promise you I have no idea! Plus, girls can 100% wear blue. If the baby isn’t here by Friday, I’m going back in for another Mani/Pedi. It’ll help me waste some time, I’ll go with a different nail color, and it may help put me into labor. I’ve heard pedicures can do it!
I had some leftover mac and cheese and homemade chicken nuggets for lunch when I got home. The weather was perfect for sitting outside while the dogs played.
Leo and I were on the same page all week with feelings…After my doctor’s appointment on Tuesday, I met up with my mom for lunch at The Pump House. I had their grilled chicken cobb salad, and it was amazing! Everything I’ve had there so far has been out of the park. We had to order the french fries, too!
And we treated ourselves to a delicious lime tart dessert before throwing in the towel. I’ve still been waddling one mile a day with Leo! Even though my legs are swollen and I don’t feel like moving much, getting out for a walk with Leo has been important for my mental and physical health. If I get waves of anxiety, a walk instantly takes it away. I was telling Kyle how bad my anxiety was this morning, and as soon as I got back from my walk, I felt like an entirely different person. Just being outside helps my moods, so I’m so happy it’s finally nice and sunny. After I close up this computer, I plan to get the pool out for Leo and soak my feet in it while he plays. It’s going to be almost 90-degrees today!
Tux has officially taken up his nightly residence in our bedroom, and it’s the best knowing that he wants to be up there with us! He sleeps all through the night on his bed, and then around 5 am (when we wake up), he starts going under the covers at the bottom of the bed to lick and nip our toes to wake us up. It is the FUNNIEST thing ever! And when we get up, he starts hopping and even jumps up to lick our faces. He’s been a completely different dog these past few months, and it’s the most rewarding feeling.
After some Saturday morning yard work, my parents came over to visit, and then we headed out for lunch.
We wanted them to try Inizio Pizza! It’s AMAZING! We ordered the margherita, raffael with pepperoni, and the pistachio. Just like last time, it was a 10/10! Every night, I end my evenings on the couch with my raspberry leaf tea and pineapple to help get labor going! I’ve been doing this for a few weeks, and still nothing, but maybe it has other benefits lol I know the baby will come when the baby is ready! I had avocado toast, peanut butter banana toast, and fresh fruit on the side for Sunday breakfast. I spent the morning folding laundry and trying to sit still for as long as possible. I have such a hard time relaxing. I want to keep doing things!
40-week bump update!!
Sunday afternoon, Kyle and I grilled up some chicken, steak, and veggies for dinner! It was amazing. I had the chicken marinating for 24 hours in mayo, bbq sauce, Italian seasoning, garlic, onion, and black pepper.
I love having leftover grilled food in the house for the week. Kyle plans to make many grilled foods for me after the baby so that I won’t worry about any cooking or meals.
After dinner, we took Leo for a walk before it started to rain. I showered off, and we began Batman! I lost interest after 30-minutes and ended up falling asleep on the couch. This week will be filled with a few doctor appointments, last-minute cleaning, and doing everything I can to naturally convince this baby to come out! Before I log off, I wanted to share some photos of my climbing roses from the weekend! I love how everything is in full bloom this year. The aphids are gone, and we didn’t get hit with a frost.
I hope you all have a fantastic week!
Questions for you!
- What is your favorite part of the day?
- Do you have hot weather yet?
- If you have kids, what week did you have your first? (I hear the first one comes late!)
Shelby says
Good luck with the last couple of days! So so excited for you and Kyle.
Taralynn says
Thank you, Shelby!
Diana says
Hi Taralynn,
I have been a long time follower. I’m not sure if I’ve ever left a comment. But I just wanted to say congratulations and your going to love motherhood. It’s the most amazing thing I’ve ever done. I have two kids. A one year old and a 2 1/2 year old. They both came a week late. I tried all the old wives tales to get them out. I think with the first I tried massaging certain body points and she came two days later. With the second I had to be induced. Enjoy the newborn phase because it doesn’t last long.
Taralynn says
Hi, Diana!
I appreciate your sweet words. I just can’t wait!
Madeline says
What is your favorite part of the day? When I don’t have to work, mornings with our daughter are the best! She’s the happiest and cuddliest in the morning.
Do you have hot weather yet? It’s still back and forth… 85 and sunny then 70 and rainy. Classic Spring!
If you have kids, what week did you have your first? (I hear the first one comes late!) 40 weeks and 3 days! I did ALL the home remedies to induce naturally. I’ll never know if any actually worked or if she was just ready! Ha
Wishing you luck in the coming weeks! It’s the happiest and most exciting time. But also can be quite hard. Don’t be afraid to ask for help. Your parents work probably be MORE than happy to help their baby take care of her baby. I’ll be thinking of you!!
Taralynn says
Hi, Madeline!
That is the sweetest. I love the mornings, too!
We are getting the same kind of weather here. I love a good spring rainstorm.
Lol I really don’t think any of those mild home-inducers work! I think it’s just when the baby is ready.
I know my parents would be over here in a heartbeat. Luckily, Kyle is taking some leave and we’ll be able to navigate it all together!
Emily says
I live in Texas, it’s allllways hot or freezing-haha!
I have two children, my first came 3 days late and second was a week early.
Taralynn says
You never know what you’re going to get with Texas! lol
That sounds about right!
Steph B says
My favourite part of the day is on the weekend, sat in the morning with my coffee just chilling!
Our weather is starting to get better here in the UK but it’s very unpredictable so still rain a couple of times a week.
My little boy was two weeks past my due date so I feel your pain- the time just drags! I’m expecting my second now and really hope he’s early/on time!
Taralynn says
Nothing better than those relaxing weekend mornings!
TWO WEEKS 😦 ahhh. Hoping your second is early for you! I hear they usually are!
Hayleah says
Morning – I can get things done and leave the rest of the day for fun/relaxation.
Texas is going through it’s extreme muggy weather! Its warmish but I’m not going to complain just yet. It’ll get worse.
1st baby born at 38 weeks, but I was induced due to BP issues…so I’m thinking that she would have been late since she was my first. I don’t know why everyone says the last weeks are fast, they were soooo slow. Given that I was induced, I had to rush to get my bag packed and to the hospital in 2 hours! I was not prepared AT ALL!
Taralynn says
I love mornings, too!
Ohhh I know that feeling. It was so muggy yesterday morning, and I’m like “oh, this is what summer is like again!” I have to remember to get my walks in before 7 am lol
YOU ARE SO RIGHT. The last weeks feel like a year!!!
Katie says
Favorite time of day is watching the sun rise, to be squarely tied with naptime!
The weather has been all over the place, much like my pregnancy nausea, but this last bit of rain should run out by week’s end and lead to 60s and 70s again!
No births here yet, but my husband was born 3 weeks early, which I think you had mentioned in your hospital bag post that you also arrived early. We are due in November, and I’m already hoping baby arrives early or he will be a giant! Haha
Best wishes and hugs to you mama!
Taralynn says
Ahh, nothing better than the beautiful sunrise in the morning (especially with coffee)
I hope you get some sunny weather soon, and so sorry to hear about your nausea. I definitely know how that is. I had the worst first 14 weeks of pregnancy and didn’t know how people could ever do it. Now, I hardly remember it!
Yes, I was an early baby, but it doesn’t look like my baby is going to follow in my footsteps lol
Good luck with everything! You deserve some pool floating days and relaxation this summer!
Cait DeMoss says
Liam came at 40 weeks 3 days and I ended up getting induced because I’m a carrier for Factor 5. It was a good thing too because little man was almost 9 lbs! I’m so excited for you! You’re going to be such a great mama!
Taralynn says
Wow! What a big healthy baby. & Liam is the cutest.
& Thank you, Cait!!
Emily says
My favorite part of the day is in the morning when I have my coffee and my cat sits on my lap. 🥰
It’s not hot yet where I live (Utah)…more like 60 degrees or so.
Love your recaps as always! I’ve been reading them for 11 years now! 🙂 I hope your delivery goes well! 💛
Taralynn says
Hi, Emily
Coffee in the morning is the best!
Ahh Utah is beautiful though 😍 but hope you get that summer weather soon!
I can’t believe you’ve been here 11 years! That just makes me smile! Thank you so much!
Emily says
😊
Nora says
Awww I’m sorry you’re still waiting! I feel for you, those days really feel like years.
And I can very much relate to your anxiety. I always struggle with it, but it was really bad during my pregnancies. Especially with my first!
Favorite part of the day… morning snuggles with the kiddos 😍 although our oldest is already past the cuddly age, and the middle one only at certain times. The little one though… can’t get enough, and I’m soaking it all in because he’s my last baby!
We had three really nice weeks, but right now some (much needed!) rain. As soon as the sun is out it’s very warm, but so far it’s still bearable.
I think I mentioned it a while ago in a comment, but my first was born at 38 weeks – my doctor said breech babies often come a little earlier. I was not fully prepared for her arrival at that point, we had a c-section planned for a week later and I was very much set on that 😂 And then I had NO IDEA what hit me when I went past my due date with my second 🙈
Sending lots of good vibes! I honestly don’t think any of the natural birth inducing methods work, but I sure tried a lot to make myself feel better 😂 I do think the most important part is to relax and give your body and mind peace and rest. I know, much easier said than done… It was close to impossible for me even with my third, despite knowing I’d just have to wait and take it easy. I hope baby will decide it’s time soon!
Taralynn says
Hi, Nora!
They really do feel like years! ahh.
Fortunately, my anxiety has been super minimal, but only strikes when I’m least expecting it. I can usually get on top of it by just going for a walk or getting out of the house. It’s not a constant feeling for me, which I feel blessed for.
That is so cute. Soak in all those cuddly moments! 😊
Haha you’re right about that. I’m trying my best to relax!
Jessica says
My favorite part of the day is when my son gets up for the day or up from his nap. It’s the sweetest snuggles and cute lines.
It’s still off and on chilly but we are getting more warm weather.
My first came at 39w2d. Baking #2 now and wondering if babe will come early or make me wait hahah.
Wishing you all the love with your delivery and weeks after!
Taralynn says
Aww! I love that 😍
I always hear the second comes early, but so did your first! Congrats on baby #2.
& thank you so much
Valerie says
Your red and white roses are so pretty! I love all cute dog pics too; they both are so sweet. 😉
My favorite time of day is late in the evening when I get a chance to read before bed.
Taralynn says
Thank you, Valerie!
I used to love reading on the porch during the summer evenings. I need to snag some new summer books so I can do the same!
Jen says
Favorite part of the day- I’m a night owl so late after my kids are asleep. I love laying in bed with my kindle and diving into a book!
Is it hot- MN is dreary and still cold-ish. 50 today but we haven’t seen the sun much which is weird.
When did I have my first- Exactly a week early!! And I went into labor on my own too. My water broke while I was sleeping.
Taralynn says
Ahh that sounds so peaceful!
I hope you get some sunshine soon. Summer is just around the corner!
That is my ideal arrival lol still crossing my fingers!
Fran says
Your flowers are just lovely. I am sure you have such a joy looking at them.
Congratulations on your journey to motherhood. I’ve been following your blog for a few years now.
My first was 3 days late, my second 10 days late and my 3rs 7days late. I didn’t expect to go early with either and was right. Hang in there it will be soo worth it. Have tou tried eating dates?
Best of wishes for a good bringing experience.
Traci says
I’m so excited for you guys! I wish you the best and can’t wait to see a baby update 😁❤
Taralynn says
Thank you, Traci! xo
Sarah says
You’ve got this girl! The last weeks of pregnancy are rough!
I’m sitting here with my 5 day old sleeping on me. My first was born 38+2 while this guy was born 38+4 so he baked a little longer. He was born last Wednesday after I did a natural acupuncture treatment that can start things progressing. It worked! If you get desperate;-)
Enjoy all those puppy snuggles and here’s to baby coming when he or she is ready!
Taralynn says
Thank you, Sarah!
Oh gosh, what a beautiful moment, and congrats on your sweet baby. I’ve heard acupuncture can do it! I’ll add that to my list just in case.
Lorri says
I have two favorite times of day – morning and late afternoon/early evening.
Your roses are gorgeous. I especially love the single-petal ones.
I’m intrigued by the Pistachio Pizza. I can’t imagine what it tastes like at all!
Taralynn says
Hi, Lorri!
It tastes a lot like basil! I had pistachio, basil, and ricotta! It was amazing, and I’m a red sauce type of gal.
♥️
Michelle says
Favorite part of the day: Mornings. The baby is still sleepy and smiley so I can enjoy a quiet cup of coffee. Once my garden is up and sprouting I also do a walkthrough every morning. But I’m in Michigan so we just had snow last week…
As for the baby, I was scheduled to be induced at 39 weeks, and I have 3 older step-kids that we had the weekend before my induction date. We had two hockey games, 2 cheerleading events outside, and it was the week before Halloween so we carved pumpkins too. LOTS of moving and I could tell by Friday that I wasn’t going to make it through the weekend and ended up going into labor Sunday night. So keep walking, it helps!
Taralynn says
Ohhhh Michigan always getting a late start and a surprise snowfall! But, the summers are stunning!
I hope that happens to me! Doctor wants to schedule an induction next week if I don’t go into labor by the weekend! I really hope the baby comes soon!
AG says
Tara:
I was over 41 weeks with both my boys and the constant “did you have the baby yet” texts made me insane… ha! But my tip would be to try to find an acupuncturist that specializes in inducing labor. Obviously most will not do it until you are “overdue” but BOTH times I was scheduled to be induced the next day, went to this amazing woman and went into labor that night. Def. give it a try! Best luck for and safe delivery (people keep saying that to me in the Bahamas when I was there for my babymoon and I loved it!).
Taralynn says
Oh gosh, that would drive me nuts!
I’ve never done acupuncture, but definitely something I’ll look into!
AG says
Also want to add that although it gets frustrating at the end, to a certain extent as long the baby “bakes” the better. People on the apps I use would say things like “ugh 34 weeks, any chance this baby will come soon” or along those lines, but I have friends of premature babies that would have been thrilled to get to 39-40 weeks, so while it’s really hard at the end, it is a blessing.
Kaitlyn Leger says
Hi Taralynn,
1. What is your favorite part of the day?
When I’m out of work and I can be home with my kids!!
2. Do you have hot weather yet?
Not yet…it’s been chilly here in New England!
3. If you have kids, what week did you have your first? (I hear the first one comes late!)
My first was born at 39 weeks 3 days and my second was born at 38 weeks 6 days. My two best friends also had their first babies before their due dates! For me, I ate A LOT of pineapple and bounced on my yoga ball. Without getting too graphic, they also say intimacy can move things along a little 😉 You can also try curb walking!!
Good luck mama…home stretch!
Taralynn says
Hopefully you get some warm weather up that way soon!
Been trying it all!!! Hoping they decide to come soon!!!
shanay says
I hope everything goes smoothly for you and your delivery! I had my first at 38 weeks. I am currently pregnant and curious to see if this baby will come early or not! I love that you haven’t found out the gender, neither have we! I have been following you for years and its so fun to see how your life is evolving!
shanay says
I hope everything goes smoothly for you and your delivery! I had my first at 38 weeks. I am currently pregnant and curious to see if this baby will come early or not! I love that you haven’t found out the gender, neither have we!
We just moved and the weather is hot in TX but it is a nice change from the humid heat in Florida! I know it will get a lot warmer and not looking forward to that while being pregnant but it will be ok!
I have been following you for years and its so fun to see how your life is evolving!
Katie says
What is your favorite part of the day? – I love quiet mornings, especially when we do not have to head out to work and school 🙂
Do you have hot weather yet? – no, it’s pretty rainy and also still a bit cold for this time of year over here in the South of Germany where I am. 🙂
If you have kids, what week did you have your first? (I hear the first one comes late!) Yes, I do have a son who turns 7 in July (time flies!!!) and he decided to come right at the beginning of week 36. So I would have liked to wait a little longer 🙂
I hope you’re having a good birth and a wonderful first time together as a family of three!
Love,
Katie
E. says
Hope baby comes soon! I love your flowers on the porch, I gotta do that with mine (same house as you!). The weather has been so beautiful now that the cold is gone! That pizza place looks amazing, I think we’ll go there this weekend -I was in France in March and oh my the pizza in the south of France was incredible, this reminds me of it! Best wishes for a calm peaceful delivery (well as much as those can be!).
Meagan Norris says
Hi there, long time Labor and Delivery nurse here and Mom of 3! I’ve followed you for a while, but have never commented…just wanted to send you my personal tips/ tips I give my over-due triage patients that come in all the time, just desperate to deliver. The red raspberry leaf tea is good for toning the uterus, since the uterus is just a big muscle (also for period cramps). My go to though is evening primrose oil capsules (most natural food stores have them). It helps thin the cervix, which aids cervical effacement. You can take EPO both orally and as a vaginal suppository for best results. Usually in first time Moms the cervix needs to thin out (efface) in order to dilate easier. Most inductions will start with a thinning agent (Cervadil/ Cytotec) before starting a medication to help you contract (Pitocin). Also you can stimulate your natural oxytocin (Pitocin is the synthetic version) with nipple stimulation, so if you have a breast pump, you could use that too.
Sorry, I know that’s a lot of info, and if you’ve had the baby already, congrats! Hope all goes/ went well!! I’ll be looking for that birth story very soon. You’ve got this Mama!
Meagan