Waiting Game

The waiting game is on. D day is this Friday and I've only had one contraction as far as I can tell. I usually get some warning contractions in the day or days leading up to the big event, so I guess the good news is that I'll very likely make it to see Penny's school play tomorrow. 

I was a bit worried that I'd miss the play after all our preparation for it. I am one of very few moms who made a costume. It seemed silly to spend lots of money, though, because she was less than thrilled about being a panda in the first place. I spent $8 on enough supplies to make three panda costumes (or one costume and a cute fleece baby blanket). So I figure it was a good investment. 

I am looking forward to getting my joints back to normal. Being able to roll over in bed, especially without that horrible bone grinding feeling will be so awesome. God willing, I will also lose some of the purple on my feet and legs. My right foot is easily 50% covered in veiny scariness and the whole leg is veiny or swollen from the moment I get out of bed each day, no matter what I do. It didn't totally disappear after Paul, but I'm hoping to at least lose the pain and swelling.

It has been slowly sinking in that we're waiting not just for delivery, but also a total change in our family dynamics. How will the kids respond to the new arrival? How will they act differently with each other? How am I going to get Penny to school on time still? It is an open question how I will maintain sanity through the end of the school year. She's doing really well and I'd hate to end the year on a sour note. 

Paul is becoming more independent, but chasing him around doesn't seem like fun while trying to lug around a newborn. We may end up spending a lot of time in the yard instead of the park. He's so funny as he explores, then comes back for a cuddle or to show off some spiffy new move. He's learning ladders right now, much to my chagrin. I insist on being his spotter, despite his protests. I don't want to squash his adventurous spirit by cutting back our outings or being over protective, but I'm not sure how I'll be able to catch him while cradling an infant.

Who knows, though! Maybe this one will break the mold and sleep well for me. I haven't had a newborn in summer yet, so perhaps they function differently than winter babies. We'll see! Keep the little cutie in your prayers. Can't wait to meet her!