We are moving right along in our pregnancy and in our summer plans.  I am 18 weeks today, and we had our first midwife appointment.  I am measuring right where I should be for 18 weeks (yay for only one baby because I was a little scared of having multiples -- even though my sister and sister-in-law both have handled that wonderfully). 

We heard the heart beat for the first time today, and it was no less amazing to hear it this time than it was my first and second pregnancy -- such a reassuring little choo-choo sound.   Boddhi and Michaela got to hear the heartbeat as well and they were just as moved as Dude and I. 

Boddhi is doing a good job of keeping me on the straight and narrow (diet wise).  He told me not to eat a cookie today “Don’t eat that, it has bad stuff in it.  The baby needs helfy foods, mom.”  I said you are right Boddhi and put the rest of the cookie down (if he can follow his strict diet, so can I).  Speaking of Boddhi and strict diets, it has been 7 months since he had a seizure (yay!!), and we are so happy. 

Back to the appointment-- baby has a strong and fast heartbeat and was moving around a lot.  I am feeling more and more excited about the pregnancy now that I am feeling better. 

I am not loving the hot, hot, hot Texas summer, but I am glad to be feeling better -- no nausea, more energy etc. 

We just got back from our vacation road-trip last week.  We went to Atlanta, Georgia (or near there) to visit my older sister on her small farm, and then we went to Wilmington, NC to visit my younger sister.  We went to the beach, ate seafood, visited museums, festivals etc. and just enjoyed being away from Texas for a while.  I ate lots and lots of yummy food (but my weight gain is right where it should be right now so don’t worry).

My sister-in-law and her family came down this past weekend, and we got to spend some time with them.  Brother-in-law fixed our Taurus so Mike can drive it (because she has her license!), and he fixed our washing machine as well (yay!)  Dude helped by the way.  They both worked very hard, and I am very grateful. 

Our traveling and visits are not over yet though.  We are headed to my Dad’s for the 4th of July (have not been there in over a year!), and then Audrey (our oldest) is coming home from college for a short weekend visit the next weekend. 

I only have a few iPhone pics of vacation because I forgot my good camera at home :(

We are enjoying seeing family and going new places (especially since I was basically spending 24/7 inside this house the first trimester).

Wishing everyone a wonderful summer -- hopes for cool breezes and low electricity bills.

All the best.

Sadge