5/25 Doctor's Appointment

Lily Kate checked out wonderfully this morning. She's measuring right about 28 weeks - so almost on schedule. Her heartbeat was a strong 166 beats per minute. My blood pressure was great but I've gained another 6 pounds...that brings the tally to a little over 30 so far. (Still got another 20 to gain to catch up to Ace.) I told the nurse I didn't care what the scale said, I've been so swollen these past two weeks that I'm lucky to see my ankles at all.

A trace of protein in my urine, swelling, weight gain and blood pressure just a little more than normal means that we will just watch all these things together a little closely at my next appointment. No cause for alarm because they are all normal pregnancy symptoms.

I've told people I will be shocked if this little lady doesn't come early. Just a hormonal feeling maybe but I'm just convinced she won't wait until the end of July to debut. Hopefully she will because our contracting work at the house is dragging out and I'm not quite done painting her room!

Just a little pop!

7 months pregnant and my ankles are swelling bigger than my belly. I'm thrilled that what I termed "pregnancy-fat-face" (that plauged me with Ace) has held off so far.

Lily Kate is popping out just enough to warn the world she's coming. Just like her big brother, I think she prefers to lay more towards my back and rear end (more room & cushioning back there for sure). It's fun to learn her schedule by her kicks and movements. She's definitely a morning person like her mama! From 6 to 8am she gets to rockin'.

Been painting some decorative elements in her room for the past two weeks and can't wait to post them once they're finished (maybe this weekend). It's all coming together.

A few contractions to report but I think the Lord is just reminding me that life can change at any moment and right now my cup is overflowing.

Spelling

I've had several people ask me how we are going to spell our baby girl's name:

LILY KATE

Two words

No hypen

It's intended to be a double name

She won't have a middle name

I had no idea how complicated I was making things with this name. Hopefully she won't dislike her name! Add to the mix that, half the time, Jonathan and I refer to her as just "Lily" and I'm sure we are confusing everyone.

Ace has it easy compared to this!

Charming Lily Kate

I have worn this charm daily on a necklace for my Ace of Hearts. I've gotten many questions over the past 3 years, people asking me if I'm a card player or like to gamble. Funny conclusions drawn from this charm. Now it's time to charm Lily Kate. I've found three that I like.

Option 1:

$22

Option 2:

I think this is my favortie but it's $40! Kind of pricey when you consider that Ace's charm costs less than $8.

Option 3:

$30
I'm not trying to be depressing or to remind people of an awkward subject, but I really wanted a third charm (after all, Lily Kate is my third baby). I found this angel wing and really liked it.

A Note for Lily Kate

Good morning Lily Kate,

Mommy just wants to write you a note. You are kicking around in my belly and moving so much, it's hard to think of anything but you this morning. There is a story on tv this morning about the bond between mommies and their babies and it's giving me warm fuzzies to think that you and I are as close as can be right now. I'm doing my best to keep you safe and warm and to keep your big brother from smushing you. Since you are 6 months along, you should be able to hear my voice. That's really wild for Mommy to think about and I'm trying to say only nice things (but you are certainly challenging me with hormones and mood swings). I imagine a lot what you must look like and pray for the little lady you will be. Right now, I'm just praying that you will be confident, not affected by people's words and opinions but sure in yourself. I picture you in your clothes and have almost finished painting your room. I hope you like it when we're finished.

Thanks for keeping me company as I work this morning. I love you very much.
Love,
Mommy

Groovy Joovy

Hooray for sister-in-laws! Hilary found this stroller for Ace and Lily Kate on her neighborhood website. Ace can sit or stand on the red seat in the back and Lily Kate will be able to ride in her carrier and later grow to sit in the front seat.
I choose baby products based on ease-of-use and weight -- I can't use complicated gadgets and definitely don't have the strength to lift them.

Best part: Under $100. Now we are more prepared for her arrival and I can use all of that kind of help I can get.