we seek joy

Our darling girl is the size of a cantaloupe this week. A CANTALOUPE. I cannot even fathom how she has grown from the size of a poppyseed to a small melon in such a short time. She is almost a foot long, and weighs just over a pound now. And boy, do I feel it. On each side of my belly and in the bottom of my ribs is where she likes to stretch. It is such a strange and wonderful feeling. Knowing without a doubt that she is alive with each shift of my stomach. No matter how painful her kicks get, I will be grateful for that reassurance. A's lungs are continuing to develop, and her ears should just about be done forming. Which I believe to be true because she dances the most to the sound of Steven's voice. She also went wild yesterday while we were at church and the music was playing loudly, accompanied by mine and the congregation's singing. If she is anything like she is out of utero as she is in; she will be a very alert baby girl, who adores the sunshine and music, and who is about in love with her dad as I am.

New developments -

 Cankles. Whether it is standing to cook dinner, or walking a few miles, my ankles turn into a broken can of biscuits. It is quite the hilarious sight. 

Also, I am finally in that stage where people (read: strangers) are sure I am pregnant and they aren't afraid to make reference to it. Thank heavens the awkward just gut stage is over. Even though that definitely means non-maternity clothes are now a no-go. Unless I feel like passing out from tight pants, that is. 

Cravings lately - salad, lots of it. But don't be fooled, I crave my fair amount of chocolate to counter balance that. Knowing a good recipe to Mug Brownies has been quite dangerous. 2 minutes to the perfect microwaved brownie might just be the death of me. Oh, and Mexican food too. Real good, authentic Mexican food, but unfortunately I live in Northern California. Not Mexico.

Also, my long-lived talent of being able to hold it for hours and hours before absolutely needing to go to the bathroom is now long gone. My bladder wakes me up every morning at 3AM to remind me of that. 

Each new day is hilarious, but I absolutely, positively love being pregnant. I will never not appreciate this journey, as it may be my one and only chance to experience it. 

Happy twenty-four weeks of living to you, baby girl! 

We love you.