Okay, so the reality of being pregnant is finally starting to kick in. I am beginning to get a noticeable belly. It's not huge, but it's beginning to show even through some of my clothes. It's also more like a pregnant belly and not just a chubby belly because it's hard and not very malleable when I bend over, which is an interesting feeling. I'm also noticing that my hands are beginning to naturally touch and rub my belly when they are in my coat pockets or my sweatshirt pouch. I've always wondered why pregnant women constantly touch their bellies, and it's awesome to experience the answer for myself. I think it's a mother's way of getting to know the baby inside of her, of getting as close to him/her as she can. I'm realizing that it's not even a conscious act at first. I didn't even realize I was doing it until I had been doing it for a while. I guess it's all part of nature--part of God's plan of bonding between a mother and her unborn child. And finally, the biggest realization of this little baby inside of me is that I am beginning to feel little flutters of movement around my belly button. Today is the first day that I felt them and really couldn't associate them with anything else (i.e. gas, hunger pangs, wishful thinking, etc.). I was fixing books when I felt them, so it's obvious that this baby gets very excited about books, just like his/her mommy.
Another reality for both Rob and me is the crib that is now set up in the baby's room. This beautiful crib was gifted to us by one of our neighbor's coworkers. She is a grandmother who used the crib for her grandchildren when they visited, but they have grown out of it. It is a lovely, very gently used crib. I love it and am so grateful to this woman! Seeing a crib in that room really makes this baby seem real to me. The room has a long way to go as far as organizing and some light decorating, but having the crib already in there is a huge blessing.
We have our big ultrasound appointment the first week in March, so check back for an update!
