Monday, May 8, 2017

31 Weeks

Dear Baby Batts #2,

Happy 31 weeks, little one! You spend more time sleeping (and dreaming) these days, use all five senses to process information, and can turn your head from side-to-side. You weigh over 3 pound sand are about 16 inches long! At my last appointment, Donna said your head is down in position, where it will stay for the remainder of your time in utero. And the other day, I know I felt the heel of a foot on my right side and your little wiggly butt on my left!

I've been walking every day at work, but today's laps were significantly slower than last week's! I know it's partly because I'm still not feeling well... but it's also because your growth has pushed my other organs (lungs included) into a new place. It's more difficult for me to take deep breaths.

I've also been clumsier lately, going to the bathroom more often (and waking up at night to do so now), and have had some leg/foot cramps lately.

But my FMLA paperwork was approved! Right now, I'm anticipating being home with you from July 8th through September 10th. Yay!! I can't wait to cuddle and snuggle you every day.

I love you, Clara!

Love,
Mama

Sunday, May 7, 2017

30 Weeks, 6 Days

Dear Baby Batts #2,

We stayed home from church today. I've been feeling under the weather and it all came to a head when I woke up. Exhausted. Stuffy nose. Cough. General malaise. So our "Day of Rest" was really a day of rest: we slept, watched movies and Netflix, I crocheted, drank lots of water, and ate copious amounts of cookie dough (without the eggs in it).

Daddy and I spent part of the evening right before bed looking at wood stove ideas. We decided we don't want it up on a platform, we like the legs on it, we like darker tile more than lighter tile (for the most part) and I want something a little bit unique and sassy. I'm excited to start (and finish!) this project before you arrive, Clara.

Here's to a good night's sleep before another full week of work!

Love,
Mama

Friday, May 5, 2017

30 Weeks, 4 Days

Dear Baby Batts #2,

When daddy and I first met and started dating, he would drive to Palmer from Anchorage to have lunch with me once a week. He'd pick me up and we would go to the Palmer Downtown Deli. There, we would usually each get a piece of quiche and just sit and chat before I returned to work.

That changed some when he switched jobs and when we had Ruth...

But today, daddy drove to Palmer, picked me up, and we ate lunch (just the two of us!) at the Palmer Downtown Deli. We didn't get quiche this time (sandwiches instead) but were able to just sit and chat together.

It. Was. Wonderful.

Dates with your daddy are one of my favorite things. I love hearing his heart for the Lord, for you girls, for me. I love hearing what's going on in his life and in his mind. And I love sharing those things with him, too.

You are secure in our family, baby girl, because our marriage is secure in the Lord.

Love,
Mama

Wednesday, May 3, 2017

30 Weeks, 2 Days

Dear Baby Batts #2,

Today was your 30 week appointment! You are measuring at 32 weeks (a little big, but not too bad) and your heart rate is 147 BPM. You sound strong and healthy. Donna said everything seemed just fine. Maybe you'll come early, since you're measuring big. But maybe you'll be 10 days late, like Ruth. We'll wait and see, Clara Boo!

Ruth has started a new habit: if I sit down on the floor, she pulls my shirt up to expose my belly, where you currently reside. Then she hugs it, says "Baby!", and blows you raspberries. My belly ends up covered in her spit, but I love how she loves you already. I think she's starting to understand that "There's a baby in mommy's tummy!" We call you by name - "Baby Clara." And hopefully when you arrive, she'll be excited to see you.

Oh, Clara - I hope and pray that you have a strong and healthy relationship with your sister. I pray the two of you like to stay up late talking and laughing, sharing secrets and sharing clothes. I pray you stand up for each other, and tease each other in love, and give good advice. I pray you serve the Lord together.

Our family is not complete without you, little lady. Can't wait to meet you soon!

Love,
Mama

Monday, May 1, 2017

30 Weeks

Dear Baby Batts #2,

Just like that, we are three-quarters of the way through the pregnancy! Your little body is more proportionate and your sleeping quarters are getting tighter. Your brain is starting to ripple, making room for future development. And you are sooo wiggly! It seems like your favorite position is one that has you pushing against my right side. You like to prop yourself there (especially when I'm laying down).

Memaw  asked me if we would see you again before you are born... Nope! In anywhere from 6 to 12 weeks, you could be here in my arms. I'm a little nervous, to be honest, about having two babies... but I'm also so excited to welcome you.

I started working on the rug I'm making for your room. I picked out the fabric and have it all ripped into strips. Next I'll sew them together and start braiding. We looked forever for a rug we liked for you, but nothing stood out. So I'm improvising! I made the rug in Ruth's room and I like that I can make yours, too.

Well Clara Boo, we'll see you in about 10 weeks!

Love,
Mama