Late Pregnancy Class

Now that we’re in the third trimester it’s like things are moving in fast-forward. Suddenly the baby’s room is filling with… well… baby things. Melissa is finally, and rapidly starting to show. And I’m starting to freak out a little.

The latest eye-opener was our “Late Pregnancy Class”. The class wasn’t so much about what happens during the late stages of pregnancy (that’s next month) as much as it was about being ready and knowing when it’s “time”. And there’s a lot to figure out.

Here’s a short (very short) list:

- Pack a Bag

- Get the Car Seats Installed

- Know the numbers to Call

- Develop a “Birth Plan”

The “Birth Plan” is a big one. This consists of a checklist of choices that Kaiser gave us. Do you get the baby’s shots right away (yes)… do you want an epidural (YES!)… do you want the lights bright or dim (dim I guess?)… do you want to touch the baby’s head as it crowns (um… what?).

The other interesting part of the class was the hospital tour. We’re having the baby at the new Kaiser in Roseville. Despite being a bit of a trek, we chose Roseville because it’s state of the art and has a NICU.

The birthing center there has been open for a year and the place is beautiful. The room where the baby will actually be born was nicer than most hotel rooms. In fact, they told us it’s big enough to hold 30 people (who has 30 people watch their childbirth?).

The class ended after the tour… however my stress did not. I spent the rest of the night imagining the moment when we actually have to make the drive to the hospital for real. It made me a little nervous, and a lot excited.

What’s next: This weekend my dad and my friend Greg are helping me paint the baby’s room and put the crib together. Should be fun.

These guys were all in our class and they're all waiting for their pregnant wives, who are in the restroom.