27

dear evelyn,

i'm feeling blessed today for all the small blessings that could easily go unnoticed. there's something about small children that help mama's like me slow down and "small the roses." they say each pregnancy is different, and it's so true. we have been our healthiest, still exercising 5+ times a week on top of chasing 2 toddlers around, and yet we weigh the same amount at 27 weeks as i did at the end of scarlett's pregnancy. most days are great, which is why i can remark how fast this pregnancy has been flying; every once in a while, i get a really miserable day. i ache and i'm nauseated and i wonder how i'll make it to 40 weeks-- and then i realize that it's because i've been so blessed this time around with such an easy pregnancy that the miserable days really stand out. your sisters are so good about knowing when i'm feeling unwell; they will sit with me and rub my belly, or play quietly among themselves while i recover on the couch. they both love little babies and are so nurturing in their own ways-- you are the luckiest to have such sweet examples. braxton hick contractions have started this week (they started about 1-2 every hour and we're now up to 5-6/hour) and i'm grateful for the knowledge of my cervix of steel (had 4-6 contractions every hour from 27 weeks on with scarlett's pregnancy and still needed to be induced after 40 weeks). mostly the contractions are annoying (achy and disruptive), but i'm still relieved we can keep you safe and growing inside.

for the most part, life just keeps moving. when i get a minute of quiet to ponder, i think about how fast my almost 5 years of motherhood has flown. amelia is graduating from preschool and starting kindergarten this fall. scarlett turns 3 at the end of the year, and will become a sunbeam and start activities outside the home. you'll join us this summer and i know we will be so blessed for your new Heavenly spirit in our home.  i pray often the transition will be smooth for all of us, that i will be able to give you the best that you deserve and that you will feel loved beyond measure. 

i love you so,

mom