the arrival

Labor and delivery were a whirlwind of chaos and confusion with our first two. In the planning ahead department, we just don't seem to do very well. So we tried to be prepared for this baby. Since Eva was three weeks early, I had the back packed four weeks early.
The doctor told us that if I has progressed to a certain point at my next appointment that it would be best to just stay at the hospital and get things started for fear that I wouldn't even make it to the hospital. You see, we are low in the patience department, too. When my kids want out, they fly out. Both Eva and Samuel were born about an hour and a half after I arrived at the hospital.
So, after lunch, we headed back to the hospital, a few TMIs (I'll just say that labor is not for wimps and delivery is not for the fainthearted and all that stuff afterwards is not for those with a weak stomach) and walks around the labor and delivery floor, and five hours later, I held the sweet little Baby Eva Look- Alike in my arms.
I had forgotten how cute the little squeaks and scowls are. I have forgotten how soft they are. So much so that it feels like my sandpaper hands are going to hurt him when I pick him up. I had forgotten how fragile and sensitive to the outside world they are.
A head (and back and shoulders :)) full of dark hair and little farmer man hands, there is no doubt that he is one of ours.

number: three

Due date: so far away.  It is officially 11/4 but my babies like early out.

Years since I have changed my own kid's diaper: 2

Eva's reaction: So excited that she kept telling her cousin over and over and over how excited she was

Samuel's reaction:  Says, "It's cute but I am still allergic to babies."

How I feel: Sleepy all the time (except from 10 pm to 3 am) and a little nauseous.

Cravings: Salty, crunchy, spicy, fresh.  Japanese food saves me.  At this very second I want Greek. 
Am I showing?:  Let's just say I've looked about 4 1/2 months pregnant all winter.  

The difference between this pregnancy and the last two:  We have a house.  I am not teaching 33 third graders.  I don't have a toddler.  Karl is no longer a full time student and works from home.  Things are not quite so chaotic (and poor!).  That means I can sleep when I need to, eat when I need to.  Makes a HUGE difference for me.  I am trying to enjoy this time around and things are so much better.