The newest happenings

Yesterday A.J. and I went in for our 18-week ultrasound. It was very fun to have him there with me for the first time, especially because he missed the first ultrasound (I didn’t know I would be getting one done on that day). We were excited, of course, because this was the “anatomy ultrasound,” which is done to chart the baby’s growth and physical development, and of course it is also when most couples are able to find out the sex of the baby.

When we first found out we were expecting, A.J. wanted a boy and I wanted a girl. It was hard for me to picture having a little boy since I had grown up with three younger sisters and have always related to girls better than to boys. However, I tried to think of the baby as a boy so I wouldn’t be disappointed!

Over the past several weeks, though, God seemed to do His own work in my heart. I began thinking of the baby as a boy on my own without trying to, and picturing how fun it would be to see my husband as a father, and to still be the only girl in the house. Of course, I knew I would be overjoyed no matter if I was having a son or a daughter, but it does help to be mentally prepared for both!

By yesterday, I felt pretty certain in my maternal instincts (for what those are worth) that we were having a boy, so when the ultrasound technician told us that we were indeed expecting a son, I said, “I knew it!” (I’m sure she hears that a lot.) A.J. was very excited too, although he would’ve been happy with a girl as well. Even more fun, I think, than finding out the sex was seeing the little heart beat and watching the baby move around. I love ultrasounds; it’s so miraculous to see our precious little baby growing and moving. And it is a blessing to know that he is healthy. I do have a minor issue called placenta previa that should self-correct over the next several weeks; if not, it could lead to an eventual C-section. Other than that, everything is progressing well.

I’ve also been blessed to continue my minimal work schedule for the time being (two hours a day), and am enjoying picking up my neglected homemaking skills. It is a challenge for me to be diligent and productive during this time, because I still feel a little under the weather and I have gotten so used to not being able to do anything. But I don’t want to encourage laziness in myself. I also know that only the Lord can give me the strength and motivation to be faithful in every little thing.

I should finish this update for now; we’re leaving soon to pick up my youngest sister from the airport. She’s coming to visit over the long weekend and I’m really looking forward to it. Enjoy your Labor Day weekend, friends!