Chapter 2: A Two Month Pregnancy

I like to do things on the fast track. Start a project, beat a project to death, be done. That's my way. "But Sarah! Babies take a full 40 weeks to cook. You can't rush that or shorten it in anyway. "

Sure you can! You can be oblivious, naive and me!

So we already established that Mo was a surprise. But the bigger surprise came when we went to the doctor the next week. I had been on the pill. I had been having regular (if a little lighter) periods (which I blamed on the pill). I had only gained about 10 pounds which I attributed from going from running a mile a day to eating a bag of chips a day when I moved in with Beloved. And (please don't hate me Crystal!) I had had NO morning sickness.

Imagine my shock when the doc measured me, took my blood, and told me I was either seven months along or having twins. I had been going out 3 nights a weekend and having my share of adult beverages. I had made a Memorial Day trip to New Orleans (not the most sober of places you know). I had been eating what ever I felt like when ever I felt like it and there had been no exercise (aside from the obvious)! Now the doc was telling me I had two months to get married, get healthy, move into a bigger apartment, set up a nursery, attend birthing classes, get a car that fit a carseat, pack a bag and have a baby.

I didn't go back to work after my appointment. I think I went home and got sick.

The Zookeeper Mommy Lesson #2. Mothers have more strength, determination, focus and stamina than they will ever give themselves credit for or admit they have. We think we can't possibly pull something off. It looks completely impossible, improbable and scary as hell. We don't believe in ourselves enough.

But when the rubber hits the road and it's make it or break it time; when our families, our children, and in essence, our lives are hanging in the balance, we will pull out all the stops, fight like banshees and make it happen. There is a strength that comes with being a mother that no one but a mother will ever understand.

It's A Girl!

Yes, it has been a long while since I've posted. I had not heard from A in a few weeks, until yesterday. It is very hard to get a hold of her since she has not phone. She finally used some body's phone to call me. I am so relieved that she is doing well....other than bad heartburn.

A finally got her WIC and MediCal approved. Her Dad actually took her to the doctor for another ultrasound. Everything looks splendid and we are expecting a girl in the beginning of May! Woohooo!!! She is quickly expanding out of the few articles of clothing I get from my dear mother in law. I am going to go through my bigger clothes and see what I have, but I gave away my maternity stuff long ago.

Baby Daddy is not going to be around for much longer. From what A says, he is immature and not a great source of support. No job...no child support...no way. A is now 22 weeks along. We don't have time to waste. There is still so much to teach her. So much to try and find from yard sales, thrift shops and friends. May is right around the corner and will be here before we know it. She also told me that she stopped going to school. My heart sank. I really want her to be able to support herself and the baby. I will keep encouraging her to carry on and help with childcare if need be. The last thing this country needs is another young mom on welfare. She is interested in Cosmetology. I'd like to try and help her get a grant or something to get into Cosmetology school so at least she will be working towards something she enjoys.

There is so much to think about. Most of all, though, I'm just so relieved that she is okay and her and the baby are well. As for names...she like Arianna. We all know how often moms change their minds though! I will keep you all updated as much as possible. Thanks so much for joining us on this journey.

***In other Mommy News:
*My friend, Corinne, and her hubby just announced that God has blessed them with triplets!
*Also, my cousin Melissa got THE CALL she has been waiting for. She may be adopting four year old twins!
*Did I mention that both of my sisters are pregnant, one of them for the first time?
*More babies to love on and more Mommies to Mentor! Life is good!