Nesting Mode Activated: My 39-Week Journey & What I'm Doing to (Hopefully!) Meet Baby Cherry Soon!

Okay, you guys. We are officially at 39 weeks pregnant with our sweet baby Cherry, and let me tell you, it's a whole new level of anticipation over here! I posted on Instagram asking what day you guys think she's arriving, and honestly, I'm just as antsy as you are to find out. My body is tired, like really tired, but my mind? My mind is racing a million miles an hour, just wanting to meet our sweet girl already! It's such a wild mix of emotions, tbh. I'm so ready to hold her, but also, like, can I just get five more minutes of sleep? Hahah. It's the third time around for me, and you'd think I'd be a seasoned pro, but every pregnancy is so different, and this one has definitely kept me on my toes.

I feel like these last few weeks of pregnancy are just a blur of discomfort and excitement. One minute I'm like, 'Get out, baby!' and the next I'm like, 'Wait, I'm gonna miss this belly!' It's a constant battle in my head, and I h8 that about myself hahah. But mostly, it's just pure, unadulterated excitement. Stella and Ozzy are so ready to be big sisters, and Tanner is just the best hype man a girl could ask for. He's been so patient with my mood swings and my constant need for snacks. I'm a lucky girl, ngl.

The Nesting Instinct is REAL, Y'all

So, at 39 weeks, the nesting instinct has officially kicked into overdrive. I know some mamas get it earlier, but for me, it's always right at the very end when I'm the most uncomfortable. It's like my body is saying, 'Okay, we're almost there, now let's get everything PERFECT!' And honestly, I can't fight it. It's a primal urge, and I'm just leaning into it, even if it means I'm waddling around the house like a duck trying to organize the pantry for the fifth time. Tanner just shakes his head and smiles, bless his heart. He knows it's a losing battle to try and stop me.

What does my nesting look like this time around? Well, for starters, the house is probably the cleanest it's been in months. Every surface has been wiped down, every floor vacuumed, and every piece of baby gear has been meticulously organized. I even found myself color-coding Cherry's tiny onesies, which is something I never thought I'd do. It's just this overwhelming need to have everything in its place, ready for her arrival. It's like my brain is trying to prepare for the chaos that's about to ensue by creating order wherever I can. It's a little bit crazy, but it also makes me feel a tiny bit more in control, which is a nice feeling when everything else feels so out of my hands.

Prepping for Baby: More Than Just Diapers

Beyond the cleaning frenzy, there's a lot of practical prep happening too. We've got the car seat installed (Tanner's job, bc I swear I can never figure those things out!), the bassinet is set up next to our bed, and all the tiny little outfits are washed and put away. I love looking at her little clothes, it just makes it all feel so real. I can't wait to see her in them! I've also been stocking up on all the essentials – diapers, wipes, burp cloths, all the things you don't realize you need until you're knee-deep in baby land. I'm trying to be super prepared this time, bc with two other girls, I know how fast things can get hectic.

But it's not just about prepping for baby, it's also about prepping for me. I've been trying to get some freezer meals ready, bc I know those first few weeks are going to be a blur of feeding and snuggling, and cooking will probably be the last thing on my mind. My mom came over last week and helped me whip up a bunch of casseroles and soups, which was a lifesaver. I'm so grateful for her, she's always been my rock. She raised me as a single mom, and she taught me everything I know about being strong and resilient. I couldn't imagine doing this without her support.

I've also been trying to get in some extra self-care, even if it's just a long shower or an early bedtime. My body is working so hard right now, and I know I need to be kind to it. It's hard to slow down, especially with two energetic girls running around, but I'm trying my best to listen to what my body needs. Sometimes that means saying no to things, and that's okay. It's all about prioritizing right now.

Trying to Encourage Her Arrival (Naturally, Of Course!)

Okay, so I know I said I'm trying to be patient, but also, like, I'm 39 weeks! I'm ready! Hahah. So, naturally, I've been trying a few things to *gently* encourage baby Cherry to make her appearance. Of course, always check with your doctor before trying anything, but these are just some things I've done in past pregnancies and feel comfortable with now.

• Walking, walking, walking: I've been trying to get in as many walks as I can. Nothing too strenuous, just nice, easy strolls around the neighborhood. The fresh air feels good, and I hear gravity can be your friend!
• Red Raspberry Leaf Tea: I've been sipping on this for a few weeks now. It's supposed to help tone the uterus, which can make labor more efficient. It's not a magic bullet, but it tastes good and makes me feel like I'm doing something!
• Dates: Yes, dates! I've been eating a few every day. There's some research that suggests they can help ripen the cervix. Plus, they're a yummy snack, so win-win!
• Pineapple: Fresh pineapple, specifically the core, contains an enzyme called bromelain which some people believe can help. I just love pineapple, so I'll take any excuse to eat it!
• Bouncing on my exercise ball: This feels good on my hips and back, and again, it's supposed to help baby get into a good position. I'm usually watching TV while doing it, so it's not too much effort.

Again, these are all just old wives' tales or things that *might* help, but mostly, I know baby will come when she's ready. It's just hard to wait! I'm trying to enjoy these last few days of being a family of four, even though I'm so excited to be a family of five. It's a bittersweet feeling, you know? Like closing one chapter to start an even more amazing one.

The Emotional Rollercoaster of the Final Weeks

These last few weeks are such an emotional rollercoaster. One minute I'm crying over a commercial, the next I'm laughing hysterically at something Tanner said. My poor hormones are just all over the place! I feel so much love for my family, and I'm just bursting with excitement to meet this new little soul who's about to join us. I keep imagining what she'll look like, what her personality will be like, and how Stella and Ozzy will react when they finally meet their baby sister. It's going to be so special, I just know it :,)

I'm also trying to soak in all the cuddles with Stella and Ozzy right now. They're growing up so fast, and soon they'll have a little sister to share our attention with. I want them to feel just as loved and special as always, even with a new baby in the house. We've been talking a lot about what it means to be a big sister, and they're both so excited to help. Stella is already planning out what toys she's going to share, and Ozzy just wants to hold her all the time. My heart just melts thinking about it.

Tanner has been my absolute rock through all of this. He's been so patient, so understanding, and just my biggest cheerleader. He's always there to rub my feet, bring me snacks, or just listen to me vent about how uncomfortable I am. I honestly couldn't do this without him. He's going to be the best girl dad to three girls, I just know it. He already is! I'm so lucky to have him by my side.

Trusting the Process & Enjoying the Wait (as much as possible!)

Ultimately, I know baby Cherry will make her grand entrance when she's good and ready. My body knows what to do, and I'm just trying to trust the process. It's wild how your body just takes over and does this incredible thing. I'm so amazed by it every single time. For now, I'm just going to keep nesting, keep waddling, and keep dreaming about holding our sweet girl in my arms. I can't wait to share all the updates with you guys once she's here! Thank you for being on this journey with me, it means sm. Sending all my love! ❤