I woke up feeling pretty achy. I told Bo that I was feeling really pretty awful and that I wasn't sure if today was the day...but I had a sneaking suspicion that it would be. I had to go on into work because I needed to finish the rest of my sub plans etc. I went in for zero hour at 6:30 am and it was a rough walk into the school. I had some tests I needed to grade using the scantron machine...which required a walk the the library! I remember wondering if I should even make the trek?! I seriously didn't know if A. I could make it there and back B. Would my water break in the hall?! I remember being in a lot of discomfort, like cramps between my inner thighs the entire walk up and back (I was walking incredibly slow!) and the entire time I was just sure I would be struck with pain and not be able to make it to my room!
My first hour plan period, on my way back from the scantron machine, I stopped Mr. Stewart, our VP, and told him I needed a sub. I told him that today was the day for sure and that I really needed to go ASAP. My para (a new mommy herself, just back from leave) took over my class for me. There was a sweet little junior in my second hour class about 6 months pregnant and very curious as well. I told the kids that I was leaving and of course they were all asking a million questions, I assured them that I would not go into full blown labor right there in the room, and they would not have to carry me out of the school :)
I headed to the clinic vs going home...just in case, and arrived unannounced, they ushered me into a room and I remember very clearly, Dr. Russell asking if I was in labor! I of course told her that I wasn't sure, but I had a sneaking suspicion that I was! She checked me and mid-exam asked if she could "strip my membranes" I remember being a little bit leery but agreed. After the exam, I asked what that meant and she chuckled at the fact that I agreed to allow her to do something that I didn't know anything about! She said that it wasn't a big deal, but that I was in fact in pre-labor and that by stripping the membranes, she might speed up the process. She gave me two options, to go across the street and be admitted or go back home and walk. Walmart was an option since it was a dreary and chilly day, but that in the event of my water breaking; it may be a little embarrassing! She advised not walking alone! I called my parents and Bo. Bo stayed at work until after lunch, knowing that his little maternity vacation would be soon, and my mom opted to stay in where it was warm...but my dad (of course!) came to the rescue and we walked 4 miles around the golf course on the cart path! When we finished the walk, my pain had gone away nearly 100% and I was pooped and ready for a nap...but it was time to go get munchkin number one! So, dad went on home, and I went to get little Miss Garrity! That night was pretty surreal, we did our normal everyday routine and bed time was a little silly since we were pretty sure that the new baby boy (or new baby born as Garrity referred to him) would be home with us in a day or two!
Gowah and I walked about 4 miles and then it started to snow!
