Nesting

I am totally nesting lately. Today, I decided that I needed to stock our freezer with meals for when the baby comes. I have been cooking up a storm. So far, I have 2 batches of cranberry muffins, 2 spinach and sausage stromblis, and a lasagna, stuffed shells, and taco soup in the works. I also took the children strawberry picking today and plan to can a bunch of jam tomorrow to replenish our dwindling supply. Where do pregnant women get this little burst of energy at the end? I have to confess that I am "one of those" who thinks that the baby can't come home until the house is perfect! I know, I know, as if the baby cares! I don't know what it is . . . maybe it is the knowledge that once the baby comes life will come to a screeching halt for awhile.

Things continue to get better and better with Abbie. She continues to test us, but it is not all day every day anymore. It used to be that if she started a day bad, she ended it bad and couldn't pull herself out of the downward spiral. Now, when she starts a day bad she pulls herself out very quickly. I guess she is tired of battling me knowing that I know what she is going to pull and she also knows what is coming. I would say that since Cameron and I returned on Saturday, she has had a streak of "good" days--meaning that she has not sat in the same spot pouting for 10 hours in her pajamas refusing to do anything. She even did school today! She is starting to share more of her thoughts and feelings with me. Yesterday, she even shared a memory from Liberia. I don't know if I believe her--the story kept changing--but it was a start. We continue to battle "food issues" but I think this is to be expected. Today, at the strawberry patch, instead of picking berries and putting them into the basket, or pickin' a few, eatin' a few, she found a spot far from me and ate and ate and ate. After some re-direction from me, she was on the right track and began to save those she picked and showed me each strawberry telling me "Look mommy, I didn't eat it."

So . . . my other news is that I have an ultrasound on Friday to measure the baby. Seems like I am measuring a few (anywhere between 3-5 weeks depending on the doctor) weeks behind. The danger is a growth-restricted baby or low amniotic fluid. However, it could also be that the baby has dropped, which is what Cameron thinks and I agree based on how things feel now: UNCOMFORTABLE! The same thing happened with Elyse and I was induced at 38 weeks due to low fluid, but she came out 6 lb. 12 oz. So, we'll see how it goes. I will not quite be 36 weeks, so hopefully we can hang on for a few more. Physically, I feel more than ready to be done, but mentally I am not ready for a newborn!

By the way . . . We have a name! Yes, it is true. And I am not telling. And don't ask Cameron because he will tell you! Shame on him. I like to keep something a surprise, some anticipation . . .

In Christ, Laura