The calm before the storm

The house is relatively clean, the dishes are done, there is no milk in the fridge that could go bad, the laundry is all done, most of the baby clothes are put in a dresser, the carseat fits, the kids are playing nicely together.

I am ready for you berkawood underwitz baby #3

Charlie 7/3/06

Kate 2/8/08

I haven't slept in days. Literally. I toss and turn all night long. I get up to use the bathroom all night long. I wake up and can't fall back asleep. I switch positions from side to side trying to get relief from the intense shoulder pain that has developed these past few months. And then just when it seems like I can actually sleep I hear little feet race down the hall and leap into my bed. This morning it was Charlie at 5:35 am and Kate at 6:00. Despite this total lack of sleep I have energy. I feel awake and calm and motivated to clean, organize and enjoy this time with my kids.
Yesterday at 39 weeks I decided it was time to get baby clothes ready, to do some laundry and clean the house. I was on my hands and knees scrubbing the floor, with the cutest 3 year old by my side helping. Nesting?
This morning I went to the doc. My body is ready to go and she predicts labor to start within the next few days. I am ready. Ready to not be pregnant. Ready to feel the wave of contractions come on strong. Ready to breathe through them. Ready to make calls to my mom and sister and head out to welcome our last child into our family. Ready to see what the baby is and how he/she looks, ready to know that everything is fine and healthy. Ready to watch Kate and Charlie become extra big siblings. As Charlie said this morning: Maybe one more sleep mommy, until we meet the baby.
The doc mentioned inducing me just a few days past my due date. No thanks. I was induced with Kate and regret not being at home during early labor. Regret not having that moment when you realize this is it and get to shout it out to the world...or your family. I am assuming since this is my third delivery it will be fast and intense...and would much rather everything happen on its own.
I feel a calmness today. Trying to let go of Saturday teaching, students reports, finals, grades....and enjoy these last few days with two big kids. Trying to take deep breaths and handle trying situations with a smile and low voice. Trying to snuggle Kate, share sweet conversations with Charlie, and silly moments with Adam.
So baby come soon, but more importantly come safely. We are ready for you. I even sense your dad getting excited.... and these two beautiful souls are ready for you to join the party...