Thursday, September 20, 2012

Just The Three Of Us...

I find that these days, I am referencing anything to do with Jason, LG, and myself as "Just the 3 of us", with finality, like we are nearing the end of an era.  I assume that subconsciously, I do this because I know that our days of one kiddo are numbered, and I feel like for each outing and special event we experience as a family these days, I just want to soak up every second, cherish each tiny memory and word, and bottle it up so I will never forget!  Of course, this is silly, because baby #2 is clearly present and accounted for...   As you can see in our photos :)  I have been pondering what it will be like to be a party of FOUR.  I never had this experience growing up, as I was an only child.  Looking back, it was fine, but as I and my parents are getting older, it is much harder to be an only child, and there are days that I long and ache for a sibling to call up on the phone.  To be honest...  it's lonely :(  So, needless to say, I can't wait to give Leighton the gift of a baby sister, who will be her best friend (some days worst enemy), confidant, and lifelong blood link.  What an amazing blessing, and I am so thankful God has given us this opportunity for her.  However, I am nervous.  I think every new parent experiences the daunting fear of bringing any new life into this crazy world, especially given the level of crazy it's reached in the past few years...  I also find myself nearly parlyzed with fear at the thought of entering a grocery store (or any public place for that matter), with a 2.5 year old, (in)sane mind, leaking breasts, and screaming, acid reflux riddled newborn!  How am I going to do this?!?  I then force myself to reason, and realize that SO many other people do this, with 3 or 4 kids...  Look at the Duggars!  So, all will be well and fine, just the fear of the 'unknown' I suppose.  I also realize what an amazing, hands on, involved husband I have, and that relieves alot of my anxiety ten fold. 

With that being said, we just took our final 'family of three' vacation...  A little babymoon/last only child trip for Leighton to Hilton Head.  Jason's cousin Patrick graduated from basic training on Parris Island, SC, so we parlayed this into a long beach weekend.  It was such a nice little break, and gave us some much needed, special moments with our girl...  She is getting SO big.  It is wonderful and terrifying all at once.  She is turning into a little 'boss', and likes to order around her animals and toys (and sometimes mom and dad), with her little pointed finger shaking in our face "No no!".  She reminds me of a little teacher, giving her orders and commands.  At the same time, she is so sweet, caring, and loving, and I just adore the little person she's becoming! 


                                                               Dancing at the Salty Dog!!









                                                               Twirling in her dress....