The shape of things to come?

I have been dealing with Braxton-Hicks probably since early in month six. They have been frequent and uncomfortable from day one. In spite of the discomfort, the B. Hicks are usually mild and painless; my belly contorts and makes interesting shapes, much like the image above. Right now, though, I feel like I might be in the throes of early labour. It’s 6:49 am, and I was awakened not too long ago by a hard kick from Aisha, and severe pressure around my mid-section.

1. 6:49 am – 30 seconds.
2. 6:50 am – 31 seconds.

Because the sensation is more painful than usual, I am timing these cramps/contractions. They’re coming about a minute to three minutes apart and lasting for about 30 seconds. I don’t know what’s going on, but I’m in more pain/discomfort than usual. I really hope it’s not labour.

3. 6:53 am – 35 seconds.

Perhaps I’m just dehydrated, and these are ridiculous Braxton-Hicks. I quickly consulted Dr. Google, and nothing he says indicates that this might be labour (no bleeding, discharge or anything like that. Will keep searching. And praying).

This can’t be labour. Aisha’s still kicking about in there.

4. 6:55 am – 28 seconds.

I’ve been feeling a little…”off” since visiting my aunt in Mississauga last night. I felt kind of sensitive in the tummy area, and when I got home I headed straight upstairs and laid on the bed, feet hanging off the edge. Boots and all!

5. 6:57 am – 30-ish seconds.
6. 7:00 am – 35 seconds

I’ve changed positions and I seem to be feeling better. I may actually – oh, wait, now…

7. 7:04 am – 30-ish seconds

There’s been a lot happening in my family, lately. Both my mother’s older sister and brother have been diagnosed with stage IV cancers. My aunt’s cancer is in her lungs and spreading. My uncle has advanced prostate cancer. I got to see them both yesterday, which made me happy, because the last time I laid eyes on either of them was back in August, when I was just a little bit pregnant.

8. 7:10 am – 30-ish seconds
9. 7:12 am – 20 seconds (milder)

I spent the evening talking to my cousins, which was nice. Found out they thought I was naming the baby Marchesa. 😀  The hell? It’s pretty, but it’s a helluva lot of name for a little person. And way too…”fussy” for someone like me.  When I told the boy last night, he laughed and exclaimed “but I can hardly spell ‘Aisha!'”

10. 7:25 – 15 seconds (mild)

Dr. Google just told me that if “contractions” are less than 10 minutes apart, I should head to the hospital. Again?

Sigh.

I’m very tired.

I’m going to wrap this up, and get my ass in gear. I’m composing this in my office and as I look around, I can’t help but feel overwhelmed by the chaos. The room is full of Peanut’s stuff – clothing, supplies, stroller, jumperoo, vibrating chair-thingy…I have to get this room organized. Other friends have been coming by and donating all kinds of baby-girl stuff. Aisha’s not going to need a thing for a good while. I’m grateful and happy about that.

11. 7:40 am – mere seconds

I’m going to put away the baby’s clothes and put together my hospital bag (just in case). I have to move my bedroom furniture around to accommodate Peanut’s crib, and finish laundry. I know, I should be thinking about heading to the hospital, but she isn’t coming yet…I won’t allow it! I need to find someplace for the baby to sleep. I need to figure out where to put all her clothes. I still have to set up the base for her car seat.

I still have so much to think about.