Due date plus 1

This is definitely N8’s kid; he’s already running late. 

Nah, from what I hear, most first-born kids run a bit late; it’s not a problem.  At this point, the house and nursery are ready (steam-cleaned carpets and everything!), we’ve bought (or have been given) everything we need.  Now we just sit back, relax, enjoy the time we have, and wait for Buddy’s arrival.

This morning I found myself realizing that there are a few things I will miss about pregnancy.  Usually people discuss all the hardships (e.g., can’t lie on your back, heart burn, feet look like big pudgy Hobbit’s feet), but here are a few things I’ll miss:

• I weigh more than I ever have before–and then some–and people tell me I look great!  (I’ve even been told I look cute!  Crazy.)
• When going on walks, some people look at me like I’m some kind of hero for walking 2 miles–let along walking at all!  (I have to admit, I feel like a hero too.  ”Look at me! I can bear a life and move forward in an upright position!”)
• Midnight snacks are not only encouraged, but often necessary.  (BTW, string cheese and a few almonds are a good cure for insomnia.)
• I allow myself to eat ice cream, pretty much whenever the mood strikes.  
• My hair!! I know. . .I’ve mentioned this before. But I love pregnancy hair. It has never been this full & thick in my life. I love it!
• I love feeling Buddy move inside.  It’s the strangest feeling ever, but when he moves, I know he’s ok.  I give him little back scratches, and — when I can tell what appendage is poking me — I give him little massages. 
• I like the anticipation of wondering what he looks like or what his personality will be.  It’s fun to ponder and pray.
• I like N8’s excitement that comes out in little low-key N8 ways such as: talking about future family camping trips or planning dad & son time.  It’s very cool. 
• Using my belly as a table. It’s so handy!  I’ve used it for a small cup of almonds, dish of nectarines, and (of course) scoop of ice cream.
• Last, but not least, I like the fact that drivers stop to let me pass–without the typical annoyed look on their faces.  Nine times out of 10, I get a smile and a friendly wave even though I’m halting the flow of traffic.  

Hopefully you’ll soon read a new post  with some big news, a name, a weight, a length, and maybe pictures.  But until then, I’m enjoying the down time, the clean house, and of course — a body that will stop traffic.