Fort Knox

So I've never had my body compared to Fort Knox... until my doctor's visit last Friday. We were looking forward to this visit, not only to find out if Baby Lindhjem was thinking about arriving soon, but because we couldn't wait to hear what Dr. Panner had to say about our new friend. We met Billie at the neighborhood bar where we ate at the night before. She was our waitress and was anxious to hear about our baby. And then she proceeded to tell us that she's about 5 months along, awaiting the birth of her 7th child! When she said this, apparently my jaw dropped, but I was able to get something out like, "Congratulations - you are an amazing woman!" She then responded with, "No, I just got drunk on my birthday and left my husband in charge." Not much we could do then but laugh with her. So anyway, we came to find out that we go to the same doctors, and we were going to see her favorite the next day. The minute we saw Dr. Panner, we told him that "the woman with 7 kids" says hi, and his only response was, "Billie's crazy!" I could definitely believe that.
So on to Fort Knox... Dr. Panner said that my baby was contained in Fort Knox and not showing any signs of making an appearance soon. Of course, he continued to remind me that these things can change quickly, but for Erik and me, it meant another weekend of house projects. And so after a couple of days of sanding drywall and painting doors and baseboards (in the room that we decided would be quick and easy to finish - and now we're in 4 months deep!!), the house is actually starting to look like it's ready for us to settle in and enjoy some time with our baby. Now the question is... Baby, are you ready? (no response - Baby must be sleeping - all that painting wore it out!!)

Please don't have a 10 pound baby!

We just got back from our weekly checkup. This time we saw The Beav (aka Dr. Beaver, and yes, that is his real name). Still no signs of the little one emerging soon. I asked how long they would let me go past my due date until they would finally induce, and he said usually no more than 1 week. So the latest we'll see this kid is July 17th. But The Beav also reminded us that "things change quickly in this business" so we still should be ready to go anytime now! I told him of my fear of having a little giant - considering Erik was 9 lbs 10 oz at birth, and I was over 8 lbs, I'm just a little terrified. His only comment was, "Please don't have a 10 pound baby!" I'll do my best, doc! Right now he's estimating it to be around 7 lbs. That's funny, I could swear it feels like I'm carrying around a 20 pounder.

The Belly Shot

So I've been spending the last several months reading my friends' blogs about their new arrivals, and I finally decided that it's about time that I get in the game. We're down to just over the 3-week countdown, and so technically, Little Lindhjem could arrive at any time! We'll try to keep this site updated as frequently as possible so that you can follow the smiles, funny faces, and new parent mishaps that will keep us all entertained.
Here's a quick update as to what's going on:
Our official due date is July 10th, and we are checking in weekly with our doctors to see if there are any signs of the little one arriving early. So far, the baby seems to be happy hanging out in my belly. And yes, my belly is huge! Some think I have tucked a basketball under my shirt, but lately the basketball has been upgraded to a beachball. Many of you have requested a "belly shot," so here you go! For some reason, a lot of people think it's fun to look at my belly, and I wouldn't want to deny any of you. :) In the photo with the onesie on my belly, it says "Lindhjem Creation" on it - compliments of Grandma Mo (aka Maurene). Thanks Mo!
And coming soon will be a picture of the nursery. Maurene helped me finish painting this weekend (a lovely "Daffodil" yellow), and I've started arranging furniture and all of our fun Dr. Seuss characters that will decorate the room. Mom and Dad will be here next weekend to help with some final touches, and then I will be sure to take some photos.
Thanks for reading, and be sure to check in on a regular basis to see what's new!