38 Week Update

Today marks 38 weeks, and only 14 days left til my due date!  We had an appointment today with a different doctor from the practice, and the latest news is...there is no news :)  Not since last week, anyway.  This doctor reported that I'm still 80% effaced, and about 1/2 cm dilated...the same as what Dr. Palermo told me last Monday.  Marshall and I were both a little surprised, and expecting that I would have made some more progress since last time because I've definitely started feeling some practice contractions.  Saturday night, we were at a friend's birthday party, and I began to notice some sharp but fleeting twinges of low pain.  I figured I had just been standing too long, but they continued for a bit even after I sat down.  Over the next two days, I had more discomfort, but it was more of an overall crampy feeling.  I still have the sharp pains occasionally, but nothing has felt too intense or prolonged.  Seems as though it's just my body preparing itself for the real thing!  I've felt a bit better today and yesterday, but have noticed more pain and cramps in the evening hours.  The doctor told us that all of this is very normal, and I may not make any more progress until real labor begins.  She said everything else looks good though...a strong heartbeat and good measurements!  I guess our little guy will make his debut when he's good and ready :)  We'll see Dr. Palermo for our next appointment on Monday, so I'll post another update then.  Until then, maybe I'll go for a few extra walks this weekend!