A Letter to the Next Kapsalis

Dear Baby Kaps,

Right now, we don't know anything about you except that you have a great kick and a beautiful ear.  When my doc did a 3D sonogram, you were smashed against the uterine wall sound asleep, so all we got to see was your ear, in 3D.  But, it was a solid ear, and we're sure that the rest of you is just as beautiful.  We don't know whether you are crazy or shy, smart or athletic, boy or girl.  But, what I do know is that there are four people who press on my belly daily in anticipation to meet you.  Finley has become an expert on all things baby.  She watches videos on Babycenter.com about how babies develop in the womb.  Her favorite video is the one about the baby coming out of the birth canal.  I'm almost confident that she could successfully deliver you if I couldn't make it to the hospital.  She loves going with me to see your sonograms, watching you open and close your mouth.  She says that you are probably a girl, who she will name Flower.  If you are a boy, then your name will be Ducklyn.  She can't wait to meet you and even made a special bracelet for you to wear in the hospital.

I'm not sure how much Ryder understands about you.  When your crib arrived, he scurried around the house collecting toys and blankets that you might need, and piled them in your bed...such an attentive older brother.  Although, I'm always worried he is going to squish you because he loves to lounge and pounce on my belly.  When I remind him of the baby, he gently pats my belly and sometimes gives you a kiss.  It depends on the day, but most days, he will say that he is having a brother and that his name will be Bert, although he has also mentioned the possiblity of having a sister.  I think the transition may be difficult for him, since he is now the baby.  But, just be patient.  Once you get to know him, you will learn that he has a heart of gold and will be the best big brother ever.

Your papa is smitten for you already.  His face lights up anytime I mention you.  I love it when he rests his hand on my belly and you wiggle around.  We get so giddy about it.  It just never gets old.  As for me, I'm trying to savor this season as my last pregnancy.  Every time my back aches or I struggle to sleep at night, I remind myself that this is the last time for me to participate in this type of miracle.  I think all pregnant women feel the same way about it, slightly pained, but mostly honored.  When I feel you kick, I'm reminded that God is knitting a masterpiece inside of me, and that feels big. An imperfect child with a perfect design.  I couldn't ask for more.  What a gift you are to us already!  We love you baby Kaps, and can't wait to tell you that in person.

Love, mama