29 Weeks

Today Tal and I went to the OB for my 29-week appointment. Savannah and I received good reports. My blood pressure was normal, and Savannah's heartbeat was healthy at 138 beats per minute.

Tal and I are making progress as we prepare for Savannah's arrival in about 11 weeks. A couple weeks ago, we secured a spot at our "first choice" daycare that's five minutes from my school. We were impressed with the daycare's security, cleanliness, and professionalism.

We also selected a pediatrician who seems knowledgeable, approachable, and open to our views on breastfeeding, vaccinations, and pacifiers. In addition, the practice is open seven days a week, which was an important factor in our decision.

In the coming weeks, Tal and I still need to write our birth plan, pack our hospital bag, and finish Savannah's nursery. Also, during the first three Saturdays in December, we will be taking childbirth education classes to learn breathing techniques, medication options, and baby care basics. Plus, Tal and I will be touring the hospital's birthing center.

It won't be long before Savannah joins our family!

Our Little Soccer Player (or Is She a Boxer?)

Last weekend, Tal felt Savannah move for the first time! In fact, he felt her kicking and jabbing several times when we were sitting on the couch. Within the last couple weeks, Savannah's legs, elbows, and knees having been packing some powerful punches inside my belly. Nowadays, I feel Savannah fluttering and kicking pretty consistently throughout the day (and often at night).

Tal is looking forward to the days when he can see my belly stretch when Savannah stretches her little arms and legs or turns around inside my belly. Tal's joy will probably be my discomfort, but it will be a happy moment nonetheless. :-)

Happy 80th!

Harold Talmadge Anderson III and Harold Talmadge Anderson, Sr.

Last Saturday, Tal and I joined more than 100 family and friends in celebrating Tal's granddaddy's 80th birthday at a steak restaurant.

At the party, the decorations and cake followed a race car theme and the slogan, "He's not retired...He's refired! "

Tal's granddaddy was thrilled to see us and to brag about the upcoming arrival of Savannah--his first great-grandchild!