Discuss your risk factors with your midwife, Special. I am very low-risk for GD, so I've skipped the test in my past three pregnancies. If I had any of the risk factors (besides being over 25) then I'd be more interested in taking it.

About the birth pool - I haven't used one of the "real" birthing pools, but I sure do love my bathtub for labour/birth! I'd recommend it as an option at least!