Waddling Towards the Finish Line - 35 Week Bumpdate

It feels both surreal and incredibly real to say this, but I’m now almost 35 weeks pregnant.

Somewhere between the last update and now, things have shifted quite noticeably. I’ve officially entered what I can only describe as the waddle stage. Everything feels a little slower, a little heavier, and a lot more real. Simple things like getting off the sofa, rolling over in bed, or putting socks on have suddenly become events in themselves. And the tiredness - that deep, bone-level kind that no amount of early nights quite fixes.

But despite all of that, I’m doing really well.

There’s a level of discomfort now that comes with being this far along, but it feels like a purposeful discomfort. My body is preparing, stretching, adjusting, and getting ready to bring this baby into the world. And when I pause and really think about it, that feels pretty incredible.

With less than six weeks to go, the reality that I’m going to meet my baby soon is starting to sink in. It still feels surreal at times, especially knowing everything it took to get here, but alongside that is a growing sense of excitement that feels new and really special.

From Nervous to Excited About Labour

If I’m being honest, labour has been something I’ve felt quite nervous about for most of this pregnancy. The unknown, the intensity, the stories you hear - it’s easy for your mind to run away with itself.

But recently, something has shifted.

After speaking to a few people who have just given birth, hearing their honest (but positive) experiences, and with the help of my amazing friends Jane (who will be my birthing partner) and her sister Hannah (who have both fully committed to watching One Born Every Minute) I’ve started to feel something I didn’t expect…

Excitement.

Not in a “this will be easy” kind of way, but in a “this is the moment I finally meet my baby” kind of way. And that feels like a really powerful shift. I’m beginning to see labour not just as something to get through, but as something meaningful, something I can prepare for, and maybe even embrace.

Preparing My Body for Birth

Over the past few weeks, I’ve started to gently introduce a few things that are said to help prepare the body for labour. One of those is raspberry leaf tea, which I started drinking at 32 weeks. It’s often talked about as a way to help tone the uterus, which may support more efficient contractions during labour. It’s not a magic solution, but it feels like a small, positive step in preparing my body for what’s to come.

Another thing I’ll be starting soon is eating six dates a day from 36 weeks. There’s actually some research suggesting that eating dates in the final weeks of pregnancy could help with cervical ripening and potentially lead to a shorter labour. Whether that ends up being the case or not, I quite like the idea of incorporating something simple and natural into my routine.

Alongside that, I’m focusing on the basics; resting when I can, staying hydrated, gentle movement, and trying to keep my mindset as calm and positive as possible. I’ve also been thinking about ways to make the environment feel more relaxed when the time comes - things like music, breathing techniques, lighting, and just feeling supported by the people around me.

I know I can’t control everything about labour, but I can influence how I go into it. And right now, that feels really important.

Slowing Down Even More

As I edge closer to maternity leave (which I am very ready for), I can feel my body asking for more rest than ever before. There’s a definite sense of winding down, both physically and mentally. This season really is about slowing right down, listening in, and allowing myself the space to prepare, not just practically, but emotionally too.

I still try to get out for gentle walks when I can, because being outdoors continues to ground me in the same way it always has. But there’s no pressure now. No expectations. Just fresh air, slower steps, and appreciating this chapter for what it is.

Cornish Ramblings Is Still Thriving

One thing that has brought me so much joy during this time is seeing Cornish Ramblings continue to flourish. Debbie has been absolutely incredible, leading multiple rambles now, all of which have been beautifully received with such lovely feedback. It means the world to me to know that the community is still getting out there, connecting, exploring, and doing exactly what Cornish Ramblings was created for.

Debbie, if you’re reading this, thank you. Your support during this time hasn’t gone unnoticed, and I’m so grateful. It’s been really special to watch something I care so much about continue to grow, even while I’ve had to step back. It’s a reminder that this community is bigger than just me and that’s exactly what I always hoped for.

Looking Ahead

There’s something quite emotional about being this close now. After everything, all the waiting, the uncertainty, the hope, I’m almost there. I’m ready for maternity leave, I’m ready to fully lean into these final weeks of pregnancy, and more than anything, I’m ready to meet my baby.

As always, thank you for continuing to follow along, for your kind messages, and for being part of this journey with me. It means more than I can ever properly put into words. If you would like to support me as I head into this next chapter, I’ve included my fundraiser below. There is absolutely no pressure at all, but I know some of you have kindly asked how you can help.

Support my journey here: Fundraiser by Jody Woolcock : A Dream Come True: My IVF Journey to Motherhood

And as always, thank you for walking alongside me, both on the trails and through life.

Jody 🤍