Dear Baby #3

Dear Baby,
Last week we really had a scare.  On Monday, everything in my body and mind was telling me something was wrong with you.  I rushed to the doctor unexpectedly.  While I was driving there I was sobbing thinking about how I didn't want you to come out yet.  Even though you're five pounds now, you would still be 8 weeks early.  That's not safe.   I went to the doctor to have four tests completed over 3 hours only to find out you are safe and sound and tucked up in my nice and warm womb.  What a relief!  Your brother had surgery the following day and the doc thought stress may have triggered the labor like symptoms.  Ever since he's been home from the hospital I've been feeling great.  After that scare I am really treasuring this pregnancy.

I love when Christian talks to you.  You usually start moving when he cuddles up to my belly and talks to you.  I think you two love each other already.  Daddy talks about you all the time and loves to feel you move too.  Victoria talks about all the things she's going to teach you.

Next Tuesday is Daddy and my wedding anniversary.  We're going to get the rest of the things needed for your arrival.  I'm going to get the hospital bag packed and choose a couple outfits for your arrival home.  Since I still don't know if you're a boy or a girl I'm going to find something super girlie and cutsie and something stylish and boyish.  I am so excited to meet you!  I think about touching your little face and holding you in my arms so many times a day!  I even dream about you often.  Every dream I've ever had about you when I wake up I can remember how happy I was to have you.  I love planning the way our life will be once you're introduced to the family.

Today my friends are throwing a Big Big Sister Shower for your sister.  We're so excited we can hardly stand it!  It's so exciting to have a party in your honor to celebrate your arrival.  You're getting so big you're maxing out my maternity clothes.  Everything is getting pretty tight.  Aunt Molly thinks you're going to weigh in at a good 8.5-9 pounds.  She actually knows if you're boy or girl.  Which means she already knows what your name is.  When she looks at you on an ultrasound I can tell she loves you already.  She loves your chubby cheeks and compares them to Christian's and your cute nose to Victoria's.

It's the beginning of February now.  Which means you'll arrive next month (unless you come really early).  Daddy looked up your birthstone last night and it will most likely be an aquamarine.  The other day I was at Target and diapers were on sale and I thought, "Why not?!"  And bought two huge boxes of Pampers.  Dragging those huge boxes into the house makes your arrival seem even closer!  Your nursery is ready for you.  Daddy did a great job.  I say less is more now, but I have a feeling once you arrive and I fall head over heels in love with you I'll be out shopping for accessories in no time flat.

I'm beginning to get things in order at school so I can stay home and care for you.  There's so much to do, it's overwhelming.  But when I think about feeing you and cuddling you and watching you and Christian together during the day while the house is quiet it makes me so happy.  It should be nice out when you arrive.  We'll walk to the park and go to the zoo.  Victoria will have to go to school for about 12 weeks after your arrival so it will just be you, Christian and me for a while.

Even though we're all very excited to meet you, stay put for at least another month.  Then you'll be strong and healthy when we meet.

I love you already,
Your Mommy