32 (plus) weeks

Last week was good to us. We got a sonogram and some great news. Our baby boy, Jacob, hit a growth spurt and caught up to his brother. He is now only 3 ozs lighter than Joaquin. So, the doctor said that Latrice does not have to go to the antepartum fetal monitoring twice a week. She only has to go once a week now and that is good news for all of us. When I say "all of us", I am also talking about the nurses who do the monitoring. The monitoring should normally take about 45 minutes. Last time we went, it took 3 HOURS! The poor nurses were having such a hard time getting the data they needed. Also, our boys do NOT like these monitors. They kick and move around every time they are placed on mommy's belly. Latrice didn't like making the trek up to Ft. Belvoir because driving on I-95 twice a week is no picnic. So, the growth spurt was good news in terms of Jacob's health and the fact that a lot of people now have less work to do!

The doctor appointment was also good. Latrice is progressing well with no health issues. However, our boys have been in the same position for about 10 weeks now and they haven't moved. Basically, Joaquin has been in the "breech" position (feet down) and Jacob is laying "transverse" (across at a 90 degree angle) with his head next to Joaquin's. So, the Dr. told us to start thinking about a C-section. If the boys do not position themselves to come down the "chute", they will not deliver them the "traditional" way. We hope it doesn't come to this.

On Saturday, we attended a 36 prenatal class at the hospital where Latrice is going to give birth. The class was very good and it focused on the things to expect at the actually delivery; how to prepare, what to pack, where to park, etc. They also gave us a tour of the Labor and Delivery unit, the birthing rooms, and the mother and baby rooms. It really helped to prepare us mentally.

Last Friday my school hosted a Halloween party for the students and spouses. It was a fun time for all of us to get in costume and socialize. Our Conference Group theme was "Hawaiian" and it was easy for us since we lived there for 3 years. Also, the Hawaiian shirt Latrice is wearing was hand made my our friend's mom in Hawaii. It is really nice! Actually she made her 2 shirts and they sent us a lot of nice fabric for us to make some stuff for the boys. It really all worked out!

This Saturday, Latrice is having a baby shower. Our friend here in Virginia is putting it all together. I believe the girls are going out to lunch to Macaroni Grill. It should be pretty low-key, but I am glad they are getting together.

On Sunday I am working as a volunteer for the Marine Corps Marathon in Washington D.C. Myself and about 100 other Marines are manning the 2 mile marker with poweraid and water. Personally, I think it is silly that they assigned 100 of us to man the 2 mile mark with water. I mean, if people are really thirsty at that point, the next 24 miles are gonna be rough for them. Also, the part that REALLY sucks is that we have to leave here at 3:30 A.M. Boo!!

~Javier