Labor?

First of all, thank you for all the calls and emails...I can't believe how many people were checking in on us yesterday. So, the due date has come and gone. It is now 5:26am on Tuesday the 20th and I have been awake on and off since 1:00am with contractions! Nothing major just yet...but enough to disturb my sleep and make me realize that being awake is more comfortable than sleeping right now. I'm not sure if being awake is the best decision or not, but I'm up and I guess that's how it's going to be for now. Obviously this is all still very new to me, so I got out all my paperwork from my labor and delivery class to remind me of what is to come. This "stage," "stage 1 or the latent stage" can last 2-24 hours. That is, if this really is true labor. I am timing the contractions to see if they become regular and so far they're about every 20 minutes (we'll see if that lasts). I am supposed to see my doctor this afternoon, but at this point, I'm not sure if I'll make the appointment. ??? It's amazing that you can prepare for something for 9+ months, but when the day is finally here you're not totally sure if you're really ready for all that is to come. I know most people would say, are you ever "really ready" to be a parent? I doubt it...you have to learn as you go.
Part of the preparation has been remembering where we've been. It's pretty amazing to look back at the "progress " over the past month:

1/11/2007 -- 2/16/2007

Isn't fascinating how the human body changes in just a short period of time? WOW!! Next we'll have to see if it "goes back." :)

Well, since I've started typing, I've had 3 contractions and am curious where this will lead. We'll do our best to keep you all posted. Phone calls will be made to family first...and those won't start until I'm at the hospital and I know that I'm staying. I don't want to get anyone too excited if today isn't going to be "the big day."
Here's hoping!!