How exciting Linds! I never lost my mp (i know i will have at some stage but I didn't in early labour anyway!!). The tightenings sound great... they can be annoying and uncomfortable but you want LOTS of pre-labour! I was having 'pre-labour' contractions for 2 days and by the time I got to hospital I was 4-5cm dilated! I got there with minimal pain.... fingers crossed the same happens for you hun

Good luck!