Counting at 23 Weeks

I remember the feeling of incredible relief that I felt when Kimberly was born, full-term (38 weeks) and despite having elevated white blood count, was healthy and not headed for a NICU visit. Amazing how quickly the sharpness of those memories fade into the canvas of life...until you begin the journey again.

Once again, I'm back to counting. Counting the days that we make it further, counting the days that we really need to have left, counting the days without contractions, counting the days until I can deliver in Kalispell... this morning I woke to 23 weeks 4 days. That means 6 weeks 3 days until I can deliver in Kalispell. Ideally at least 12 weeks 3 days until baby arrives.

Basically, we are on the same course that we had with our previous pregnancy... I am effacing way too quickly and that increases the risk of pre-term labor. Thankfully, since we are very aware of this, the doctors, both at home & on the road, are keeping a close eye on the progression. 

Medication, rest, lavender oil, relaxation, positive thinking, please *please* don't say bedrest, lots & lots of water, oh the list goes on. And guess what? The very active little girl who keeps our lives in constant disarray, reminds me everyday that this time of counting is so worth it. 

I'm also reminded of how often life's experiences don't play out exactly the way we would want or expect, but through it all, God is teaching us and leading us on a journey that while unknown to us, is completely planned by Him.

Some pictures of our week: