Pain

It is 3:30 AM and I am awake, blowing my nose (I have a cold!) and having pain in what seems like everywhere. I now know what it must be like to have arthritis. My joints ache, especially my hips, back and wrists and fingers. (And now I have carpel tunnel that makes my hands go numb!) I dread getting up from anywhere because I know it's going to hurt, especially in the middle of the night. Tylenol only goes so far, unfortunately. I am praying this baby comes tomorrow because it's just getting worse, and I'm not sure that I can stand it much longer.
Yesterday I called my boss to let her know that I was going to take maternity leave starting today. Last time I worked I was in so much pain when I got home and was exhausted. My last OB checkup revealed I was already 5 cm dilated. Between work being miserable and being so close to delivery, I figured it might be best to stop working. I don't want to go into labor at work or after when I am exhausted. This will not make for a good labor and delivery.
It's nice to know that I am dilated this far. I knew those bouts of false labor (3 total so far!) were doing something. I am already halfway there. This makes me happy and a little scared he is going to come too quick, like at home or something. I have been reassured this won't happen, but they can't know that for sure. I'm not sure I will believe I'm in true labor until he is coming out!
I just want this kid out now! It's amazing how much a baby takes over your body, and I want it back!