The Big Sister

Experiencing pregnancy with Clara has been fun. She is very excited to have a new baby and is thrilled to be an older sister. Although the older siblings can never be prepared for or fully comprehend the changes that are about to take place, I try to explain to her some things that will be different. Clara's responses are always very sweet and thoughtful. Although they aren't always realistic, it still makes me smile. She's told me she will change the baby's diaper, hold the baby if she cries and stir dinner so it doesn't burn if the baby needs me while I'm making dinner and of course, if the baby cries in her crib, she'll go put her back to sleep or play with her.

She always comes up with different names for the baby as well. From Pocahontas to Lisa to Katie. Or the other day it was Hide-n-Seek, but Heidi for short. She talks and sings to the baby through my stomach. When I take pictures of my pregnant self, she loves to sneak into them. She pats and rubs my belly and giggles when she feels the baby move. For a few weeks she was obsessed with the fact that the baby ate whatever I ate. Every time I'd eat something she'd ask if the baby was eating it too. She's also been very curious about what the baby is doing in my stomach, like eating, sleeping, breathing, pooping, etc. etc. Her inquisitive mind gets me thinking too. Isn't amazing that babies get the exact amount of nutrients they need from us so there is no need for them to poop until they are ready to come out?

Occasionally Clara will randomly say, "I want the baby to come out so bad!" or "I want the baby to come out now!" I see I'm not the only one getting impatient. Obviously there will be an adjustment period, but I think Clara is going to love having a baby sister. I know she'll be a good big sister and be a big helper. She loves to help me and I think as long as she's involved in what's going on with the baby, she won't mind the attention the baby demands. I'm so glad for the four years I have had to spend with her, but I think we're both ready to switch up our family dynamics.
Things I should be doing instead of blogging: making dinner for the neighbors, working on my mom's Christmas card, cleaning my house for Clara's party, taking a shower, getting ready for Clara's party tomorrow (I only have to bake the cake, make about 20 graham cracker houses and prepare dinner for 40, ha ha ha) and finishing up things for the baby. But no, I sit on the couch and blog so my chubby little ankles will get some relief.