I have not done much here for a while! I don't really have any good reasons actually. We have been pretty busy getting things ready for our baby to get here, but I have somewhat neglected the "blogosphere". I don't think this is entirely bad, but I do notice that putting my thoughts out here is a great way for me to really settle into my own thinking and analyze things happening around me. I do write in a journal and that helps with the same process, however it is more a list of things I do and people I interact with.
Anyway. Today we are going to St. George for our last doctor's appointment. That is pretty exciting, and tomorrow is even more exciting as Jenna is being induced. Now, we did not request that she be induced, but with the almost two hour drive from Orderville, and wanting to avoid a drive filled with misery and "contraction action", Dr. Lunt decided it best that we come early. I am glad for this honestly, it saves Jenna and I a lot of worry. I see it as a blessing.
We are facing, I think, some of the usual nervousness and excitement at the prospect of a new child. Jenna and I worry about Dallin and how he'll adjust. We know he will have some moments of "what about me". We have discussed this and have planned on having him as involved as possible. Thankfully we have many relatives and friends in St. George that can help him. I am worried about Jenna getting that baby out. She is such a small woman and it was hard enough getting Dallin out, and Dallin was four weeks early. I worry about Jenna's health and hoping she can feel okay. It has been hard for me to watch these last several weeks of pregnancy. It is really difficult for most woman to get babies into this world and Jenna is not an exception. I definitely admire her pluck, because she keeps on going and stays busy and happy even though it is quite obvious her "pregnant state" is causing quite a bit of misery.
Of course I worry about some sleepless nights and teaching, but I think our main worry with this baby and with Dallin is that we'll take good care of them, that we will help them be healthy and be able to provide their needs. Along with those worries comes the concern that as parents we will teach them gospel principles appropriate to their understanding and conduct that will allow them to be a blessing to society. We take very seriously, as do most of you who read our blogs, the responsibility to raise responsible, enlightened, and worthy children in the Lord's eye's. I think the description of the Savior increasing in favor with God and man is the ideal objective for all of us and I am sure it is what we all strive for.
Please indulge me for a minute, but the Boy Scout Law come to mind for both our children and us and I thought I would post it here along with explanations from the Scouting website (You can substitute the word "scout" for "child" if it makes you feel better!
Scout Law
- TRUSTWORTHY
- A Scout tells the truth. He keeps his promises. Honesty is part of his code of conduct. People can depend on him.
- LOYAL
- A Scout is true to his family, Scout leaders, friends, school, and nation.
- HELPFUL
- A Scout is concerned about other people. He does things willingly for others without pay or reward.
- FRIENDLY
- A Scout is a friend to all. He is a brother to other Scouts. He seeks to understand others. He respects those with ideas and customs other than his own.
- COURTEOUS
- A Scout is polite to everyone regardless of age or position. He knows good manners make it easier for people to get along together.
- KIND
- A Scout understands there is strength in being gentle. He treats others as he wants to be treated. He does not hurt or kill harmless things without reason.
- OBEDIENT
- A Scout follows the rules of his family, school, and troop. He obeys the laws of his community and country. If he thinks these rules and laws are unfair, he tries to have them changed in an orderly manner rather than disobey them.
- CHEERFUL
- A Scout looks for the bright side of things. He cheerfully does tasks that come his way. He tries to make others happy.
- THRIFTY
- A Scout works to pay his way and to help others. He saves for unforeseen needs. He protects and conserves natural resources. He carefully uses time and property.
- BRAVE
- A Scout can face danger even if he is afraid. He has the courage to stand for what he thinks is right even if others laugh at or threaten him.
- CLEAN
- A Scout keeps his body and mind fit and clean. He goes around with those who believe in living by these same ideals. He helps keep his home and community clean.
- REVERENT
- A Scout is reverent toward God. He is faithful in his religious duties. He respects the beliefs of others.
- (www.scouting.org/Media/FactSheets/02-503a.aspx)
This is where my thoughts go with expecting a baby. I am really excited for the next few days, but I realize with these next days comes the responsibility of raising this little lady and her brother with correct principles so when the time comes for them to make their own decisions, they can do it with knowledge and wisdom. I don't think it is something we can take TOO seriously, but along with that teaching we are going to have lots and lots of fun on the way, because that is part of the plan too!
Oh, and did I say I am SO excited to have a little girl to go a long with my little boy? Jenna and I are a little bit spoiled!
We'll keep everyone posted.
