We're Having a Baby

Over the past week or so, my entire focus has shifted. I have gone from planning to go back to school this fall to something very different- planning to have a baby this fall. On March 1 we found out that we're expecting our second child; by my calculations the due date is November 12. Since then I have gone from being a bit in shock to being excited. A bit nervous, but excited.

Obviously this may change my school plans. ;) Elijah was born about two weeks before I started college, and I went to school full time until he was 3 1/2. I had a one-time opportunity, a full-tuition scholarship that I could only receive if I started school when I did and would only continue to receive if I was a full-time student. It was rewarding, and an invaluable experience-- but it was not easy. I know there were times that I focused too much on school and not enough on my child. And I know that I do not want to do that again. The part-time online program is still a possibility, but I am currently leaning toward delaying for one more year; otherwise I'll give birth during my first semester and have a newborn throughout the second. I'm still giving it a lot of thought and prayer, but that's the way I think it may go.

Right now my mind is going in a million directions. There are the things that I was already focused on-- my family, church, friends, Habitat for Humanity, regular daily stuff-- plus the many new things to think about. Remembering my vitamins, eating right to help ensure a healthy pregnancy, finding a midwife, getting the house ready, planning for the birth, and of course planning for a baby. There are obviously a lot of things on my mind right now, plus I am also quite tired most of the time. If I seem a little out of it or less like myself, that's why. I'm distracted and sleepy. ;)

So there's my big news. If you think of it, say a prayer for a healthy, safe pregnancy and a healthy baby. :)