Baby Vanderwall

Dear Little One,

I know you can't really read my sign...I'm really making them for the baby's baby book, but I'll post them on here periodically to show how far along I am. In case you can't tell, it says 11 weeks.

It is amazing to think that you are already starting to move your little hands, kick your little feet, develop teeth, and that your bones are already hardening. You are about the size of a fig right now; just over 1.5 inches long.

This pregnancy has been VERY different from my first one. I never had nausea with Noah (maybe like 3-5 times and it went away after I'd been out of bed for about a half an hour) and, with you, I was basically nauseous all day every day from 5 or 6 to 9 weeks. I still battle morning sickness a little bit, but it seems to go away if I eat something and it isn't every morning. Thankfully, I've been able to keep my food down and I opted out of nausea medication, which I doubt I'll end up needing.

Another big difference is the way I feel and the way my clothes fit. I started feeling pregnant about half way through the first trimester this time. I'm not quite into maternity clothes yet, but I really need a size in between my regular clothes and my maternity clothes...nothing fits! With Noah, I did not feel or look pregnant or pull out my maternity clothes until about half way through the pregnancy. I've only gained half a pound thus far, but it feels like much more!

A positive difference this time around is my energy level. I remember being exhausted every day of my first trimester with Noah. I've had my days this time, but, for the most part, I feel pretty good. I'm so thankful for that!

Everyone in our family is DYING to know if we are having a boy or a girl. It will be sometime around Noah's birthday (April 28) that we are able to find out. Every one who has bothered to take a guess says you're a girl...Daddy would like that. Mommy doesn't really have a preference this time. I'm just hoping for a happy, healthy baby and a smooth pregnancy that goes full term.

We are so excited to welcome you into our family. Your big brother already talks about you and gives you lots of kisses. You're going to love him! He is a ball of energy and will be a wonderful playmate for you. He is also very helpful and, I'm sure, will be anxious to help take care of you when you arrive.

We thank Jesus for the blessing that is you and are so excited to meet you in about 29 weeks!