Today's Numbers

I see a lot of numbers when working in the ICU.  My patients depend on me to interpret those numbers and respond to them appropriately.  Therefore, it is probably fitting that today after going to another prenatal check-up, I am thankful for three numbers.  These numbers are 27, 139 and 155.

The first number is 27.  This is how far along I am.  It's crazy to think that the third trimester has arrived and there are only 13 weeks left.  With Thanksgiving and Christmas coming up, I think the rest of this pregnancy may end up flying by pretty fast!  I also measured out perfectly, which is always a relief to know that baby is right on target for growth.

My second number is 139.  This was the my blood sugar after my glucose challenge test; which is a test for gestational diabetes.  It is that test that pregnant women complain about because they have to drink a sugary cocktail.  I had gotten some good advice before the test to choose the lemon-lime flavor.  It tasted like sweetened flat sprite.  I had low expectations going in, so I was pleasantly surprised when it wasn't as bad as I thought it would be.  My numbers had to be under 140, so I barely made it.  However, I passed and that's all that matters.  If I had been above 140, then I would have had to have a three hour test to actually confirm the results.  I am glad I don't have to do that.  I am also glad I don't have to test my blood sugars everyday.  In high school I almost fainted the day my anatomy class tested our blood types during a lab, so I wasn't so sure I had it in me to do that everyday.  Plus, the spot on my finger that they took a sample from still hurts tonight.  I have a lot more empathy for all the patients we have to stick on a regular basis.

Finally, I am thankful for the number 155.  This was baby's heart rate today.  Now that baby is growing, the movements it makes are even more noticeable which is always comforting to feel.  However, it is a relief whenever I get the opportunity to hear that heartbeat and have added confirmation that all is well.

While my body feels very much like it has been taken over by this baby, I really have had very few complaints throughout this pregnancy.  Fatigue, indigestion and restless legs have been my only major complaints.  Being a slightly anxious person it has at times made me feel as though things are going too well, so tonight I am going to go to bed thankful for a day of many positive confirmations on this baby's health.  I am also going to bed in eager anticipation of the last trimester, knowing now that the end is in sight.  We will soon get to meet our little one, and I can hardly wait!  Uff, I guess it better be a good night's sleep because I've been told those days are numbered!