Pregnancy Update: 37 weeks {Maternity/Family Photos}

So, we’ve reached the stage where Baby #3 is considered full-term and can come any time he’d like. It’s gone by so fast! And, thankfully, the whole craziness that was the stomach bug & its aftermath around the 35/36 week mark seems to finally be all resolved. Since the last update, time has been filled with lots of appointments and trying to get things ready for his arrival.

First up, I’ve started with my twice weekly NSTs (non-stress tests). Basically every 3-4 days, I’m going into the hospital where hook me up to a fetal heart rate monitor and a contraction monitor.

As I’ve been told, they want to see some reaction/change on the heart rate monitor, with his heart rate showing at least 2 good periods of acceleration over the course of 20 minutes. In addition to that, I’m having my normal weekly checks at the Dr.’s office & a fluid check ultrasound done then too. Thankfully, he’s passed everything with flying colors so far.

Now that everyone is feeling better, nesting has been in full swing too. We’ve done some shopping (in fact, I’ve got a great review & giveaway to share on one of my favorite stores, Healthy Baby Happy Earth), officially moved the boys into a room together, started cleaning rooms, have the bassinet set up, started the hospital bag (I really should probably finish that, huh?!), and been doing lots of laundry.

One of the most fun things we’ve managed to make time for though is getting some pictures done! Before Little Brother arrived, we did a set of maternity & family photos and I really wanted to do that again. This is my favorite shot from that photo shoot 2.5 years ago:

With two of them this time, the chair shot didn’t turn out quite as great as before, but we still managed some good photos. I think the ones of us kneeling turned out especially cute!

We also did a few family shots, which surprisingly turned out really well! And, the photographer just happened to snap a quick couples shot, which actually happens to be one of the best photos of Mr. Mom Endeavors & I in a long time! 🙂 So, I am so incredibly thankful that we not only made time to do this, but that Baby cooperated & stayed put! I think it’s fun to have documentation of our family at different stages and this will be the last time we’ll be a family of 4! (Eeek….crazy!)

So, now we’re just in that waiting game phase. I think these last few weeks are some of the hardest and not just because of comfort. It’s the excitement/anticipation/nervousness about how & when things are going to happen. I find it SO hard being patient & trying not to think about it — knowing your water could break at any moment & you could have a baby tonight…or you could still be pregnant in 3 weeks and your Dr. is talking to you about inducing. ACK! But, I know that no matter what happens, in 3 weeks or less this little guy will be here! Exciting! 🙂

What’s your best “last couple of weeks before baby comes” advice?!