26

Hey, hey 26 weeks!  We are nearing the end of Trimester Numero Dos and things are goooood.  I've felt a bit more energetic this week.  I'm still pretty pooped by the end of the day, but it's been an improvement from last week.  Instead of turning into a zombie by 4/5pm, I can hold out until about 9/10pm.  Woop!  I feel like a granny having to call it a night so early, but sleep is important!  Especially when I wake up every day anywhere between 2 to 3am because my bladder is about to explode.

One exciting development for this week is that we sealed the deal on a doula.  Doula?  I know, I didn't know what a doula was either before entering the world of baby.  Basically, she is someone who provides support to the mother and her partner in preparation for birth and during labor; a birthing coach!  I know, I knowwww; how hippy/yuppie/whatevs of me.  I don't personally know of anyone in my family or circle of friends who has used a doula.  I haven't even told my Mom yet, but I'm sure I'm going to get an earful from her.  The truth is, the baby will be born and many women have done it without the support of a doula.  Here's the thing.  I want a natural birth.  I believe that my body is capable of doing what it is designed to do.  However, I'm having my baby at the hospital.  The odds are stacked very much against my favor when it comes to actually having a natural, unmedicated, interventionless birth.  So why did I decide to birth at a hospital in the first place, you ask?  Well, I still strongly believe in science and have faith in the medical community.  Also, if something goes wrong, trained doctors will be there if I need them.  I am reluctant, though, to blindly trust the hospital and their decisions.  I don't believe in trusting much of anything blindly, so I've been doing a lot of my own research.  Reading, searching, soaking up as much information as possible to decide the best way (for me) to bring my baby into this world.
And holy hell, the cesarian rate in California is sitting at roughly 33% and has been on a steady increase for the past decade.  That, combined with epidural, medical induction, etc. rates makes for a sad prospect for the type of birth that I'd prefer to have.  (Disclaimer: not saying my preference is right/wrong.  It is exactly that: a personal preference.  I totes have respect for all mamas who bring life into this world.)

I guess my point is there is a world of knowledge to acquire in the birthing realm.  I am in no way an expert, nor do I expect to become one.  The plan is to arm myself with enough knowledge and preparation so that the birth experience is a positive one for baby, me, and husband.  Having a doula as part of our team is part of that preparation.  I've learned so much already from our first meeting.  Let me just say that the birthing process and the way the human body handles it at a chemical level is effing fascinating.  I'm so eager to learn more.  So, yeah, I'm already experiencing the benefits of working with a doula!  Knowledge is power, yo.  And when I'm at the hospital, in labor, acting all primitive and shit, I have the peace of mind that there will be a voice of reason to speak on my behalf, communicate my preferences, and explain to husband & I (in normal language) what the heck is going on when nurses/doctors are throwing around all this medical terminology.

Along with being a doula, she's a certified lactation consultant.  Double win!  In my ongoing pursuit of a natural health-based lifestyle in this over-industrialized society, I plan on using these mammaries for their intended evolutionary purpose.  And (surprise, surprise) the chances of me being successful with breastfeeding are equally as slim.  There is a lot I can do to prepare now, and my doula is helping me with that process.  So, I'm really happy to have this extra support as we prepare for baby.  Necessary?  No.  Beneficial?  Definitely.

Okay enough blabber for this post.  Photo time:

Symptoms: Itchy belly!  I didn't expect this one, but I guess it makes sense.  I've already been moisturizing with tummy butter 2x a day, but now I gotta start moisturizing more often.  That tends to relieve the itch.  
Thoughts on Food: I'm still whatevs on food.  Not too hungry recently.  
Cravings: I've been on another smoothie binge this week.  Tropical smoothies with coconut flakes.  Extra ice.  MmmMm
Thankful for: Baby kicks.  I used to be the one to initiate the "poke the baby" game.  Now baby likes to play "poke the mama" all day long.  I'll never get over how wonderful it feels.
Current weight: 119.  No change from last week.  Must be my lack of appetite.