Ready or Not ... here he comes

Alrighty... tomorrow is the day. The c-section is scheduled for 7:30 a.m. Of course I'm super nervous. It's always such a relief to have a healthy baby and know that all is well with him. And then I'm nervous about my c-section - hopeful that it goes as well as possible with no complications.

Last night when I was attempting to sleep, I really felt like I had a 9 lb bowling ball in my belly. I guess we'll see how much this babe weighs. But I think he's strong and ready to join our family.

I definitely love babies - especially snuggly newborns. But sometimes after each babe is born, I wonder how in the world I even know how to care for them. I leave the hospital thinking, "And ya'll are just going to let me take this wee little babe home." I learn new things all the time and hopefully I'll figure out what I'm doing (once again) with a new little one.

It also makes me think about Heavenly Father sending these precious little ones to earth ... entrusting us to lead them and guide them in loving righteousness. He must believe in us enough and know that we can handle it. All I know is that Heavenly Father must send lots of blessings and strength and help our way.

Soooo... here we go... on another adventure with baby #4.

Hannah and Abe are excited. Max has no clue what's about to come. May we all adjust to this change with patience and joy.

One really hard thing for me today was the news from the hospital that no children under 14 are allowed to visit. I cried all afternoon. I know they have their reasons - the swine flu and all.

But I was hoping that my kids could just wear facemasks or something and at least come and hold new baby brother (something Hannah and Abe were really looking forward to) and see me once a day. I will definitely miss them like crazy and I know they'll miss having mom around. We decided we can be brave and say lots of prayers so we will be okay.

I know I should just see it as my time for a vacation from tots, but as crazy as I might go every day, I still need and love these kiddos. If it were just a day or two, I might feel better about it, but 4 days without seeing my kids when I'm sittin' in the hospital in pain seems hard. Hopefully it will all work out for the best.

Anyhoo.... lots of emotions... lots of things to keep my mind occupied.... lots of love for family... grateful for priesthood blessings and prayer, feeling humbled to be blessed with another child of God.

Better go pack that bag for the hospital. We'll post news when we can.