I am thrilled and relieved to reveal what has kept me from the computer for the past five weeks! I am with child, in the family way, expecting, "delicate," however you want to phrase it: there is a baby in my body.
And it is the strangest, most bizarre, most exciting, and most terrifying thing that has ever happened to me.
From the moment the stick showed two lines, this pregnancy thing hasn't been what I expected. It isn't giddiness and crib shopping that has kept me from the blog, but the less pleasant aspects of cooking a human. Peacoat was the least of my worries. Let's just say the entire month of March and the first half of April were completely lost. I had full days where I couldn't leave our bedroom. I threw up after even a sip of water. I got horrible headaches from lack of caffeine or not eating enough. I cried a lot. I was a lovely disaster. Without the lovely part.
The Gorilla had no idea what to do with me, and didn't bother to contain his constant excitement over becoming a father, even in my most wretched moments. I would sleep so I wouldn't feel bad, then couldn't sleep when I should. It was a time I'm so glad is over.
Because that part seems to be over, mostly. About a week ago, just before I waved the surrender flag and flew home to my mommy, I started to perk around a little. Which makes sense, as they say the most severe symptoms start to ebb around 12 weeks. And I am now 13 weeks - due October 24 - with four ultrasounds under my belt proving there is a dancing ninja somewhere under my belly button.
Many of you already guessed, I know. Still, it has been fun to share the news with our friends and now here. I don't plan on making peacoat a pregnancy or mommy blog. Mondays will be my dedicated day for all pregnancy news. And, as each day is getting better and better, I plan on finally getting to some of the changes I've wanted for peacoat for months and months now.
I now have the energy level to join the Gorilla in the excitement department. Seeing our baby on the screen is so surreal, and while it's still hard for me to imagine how much our life is going to change in the fall, I think we are as ready as we'll ever be. Or, as Ty Murray says about bull riding, "You're never really ready. It's just your turn."
Oh. My. Gosh. I am so flipping excited for you two!!! You are going to be one of the coolest moms ever. I am so incredibly happy for you and I totally know what you mean about the sickness. It sucks. I was sick the first 4 months. I was a disaster! SO happy for you both! Congrats!
Posted by: Erin Whitney | April 20, 2009 at 08:29 PM
It's a wonderful, wild ride Laura.
You and Jeff are going to have a blast.
Welcome to the world of parent blogging!
Posted by: Greg Barbera | April 21, 2009 at 10:04 AM
Congrats! Can't wait to read all the updates. And I bet, even as much as you don't want to, the world of mommy blogging will catch up to you ;)
Posted by: beth | April 21, 2009 at 11:35 AM
So so happy for you!!! Embrace every moment of it. It is spectacular and unforgettable and you will never be the same again. I know that sounds scary, but it an amazing ride I promise. This little joy is so lucky to call you mommy and I can't wait to meet him/her.....
Posted by: Melissa | April 21, 2009 at 02:25 PM
Well since you blogged about it, I guess it's really happening ;) Have been thinking a lot about you - get together soon?
xo
Posted by: Rachel | April 21, 2009 at 02:29 PM
Hi laura, I follow your blog religiously and have been dying to know why you haven't been blogging!! Congratulations! What an exciting time for you and the Gorilla! By the way, I love the blog!!
Posted by: Julie McCurry (resler) | April 21, 2009 at 03:19 PM
Well, just look at that absolutely stunning picture! Your baby is already beautiful. I think it's a... Hmmm. Give me a minute on that one... Anyway, super congratulations to two people who will make wonderful parents.
Posted by: Michael Gretza | April 21, 2009 at 04:12 PM
Just your turn, indeed. I am still quite over the moon for the two of you. I'll be delighted to read the Baby Monday updates and will also watch with an enthusiastic eye to see if more than just a little baby news creeps in other places as well.
You look spectacular - great days are ahead!
Posted by: Megan@SortaCrunchy | April 22, 2009 at 11:51 AM
Congratulations, Laura and Jeff. This milestone in your marriage - your lives -
is an incredible gift from God. No doubt
Gorilla Jr. (or Gorillette) will bring you years of joy, love, headaches, worry and wonderful blessings.
Posted by: Reader in Dallas | April 23, 2009 at 06:02 AM
Congrats!! I am so happy for you and your hubby! :-)
Posted by: Liz | April 24, 2009 at 01:39 PM